The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges the monthly cost to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned when required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of debris will promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even fail. This is why cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to complete. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off it is now time to remove any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This means cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have some essential tools on hand prior to beginning. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer, and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, then rinse with a water hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
After you have a proper coil and fin setup then you can turn on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat to ensure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through a system duct. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a challenging task that requires professional equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. To stop dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This can also help prevent the clogging that can result in a lower efficiency of the system and a high energy bill.
Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the dust and crumbs that build up over time and help to improve air flow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions, especially in children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and can cause health issues for those with respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA can use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It should be able provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should it could affect your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment as efficient as possible.
The most common indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. If the filter is blocked it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To prevent this, it is important to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A clogged filter may also cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A loose belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also look for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
Lastly, a small puddle of water around the compressor could be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the head of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Find signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Make sure that if you have any other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact a professional.