The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan that allows you to pay each month to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as needed.
It’s also recommended to do a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power to your unit. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated while cleaning.
After the power is off, you can begin clearing any large debris that could be blocking the air condenser. This will include taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great method to get into the nooks and crevices and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before you begin however, ensure that you have on-hand a few key tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, and then rinse with the hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any indications of damage. Over time, hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once you have a good coil and fin set up and you are ready to turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become loaded with dust and other pollutants. This could block air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and burdens your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do to keep your ducts tidy and working well. First, change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other messes that have built up over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tight and protected from moisture entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor accredited by the EPA can use special testing techniques to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical component of the system. It must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a reduction in cooling capacity, however this could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent problem. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A belt or pulley that is loose can slip and lead to overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a serious issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect a leak, turn 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 a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble occurs. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. The most common signs that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors may become dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control both the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will have to be reset to allow the thermostat to connect with the system once more.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Find indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is a great way to reduce the cost of energy, 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 issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.
