The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges the monthly cost to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned when necessary.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to accomplish. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
First and foremost, it is crucial to shut off the power supply to your unit. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.
When the power is turned off and you are able to clear any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dust or dirt that has built up.
The coils must be cleaned. Before doing this however, make sure you have several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on in accordance with the directions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any indications of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to help the coils function more effectively.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your home and start your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. Air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can become clogged with dirt and other contaminates. This clogs the air filters 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 some things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another method to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have been accumulating over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory and allergies, especially for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you clean your filters frequently, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly it could affect your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as it is possible.
A common sign of a compressor problem is a decrease in cooling capacity, however this could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A worn belt or pulley could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there is an issue. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors will get dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can aid in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also cause your system to keep switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will need to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Examine 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 possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Make sure to contact a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is wrong with your system.
