The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned if required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the space around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is an important aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker on the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin removing any large debris that may be blocking the air condenser. This means sweeping away any sticks, leaves or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great method to reach into the nooks and crevices and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Make sure you have some essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. These will include a coil cleaner concentrate, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to 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.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
After you have a proper coil and fin setup, you can turn on your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a system of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This clogs the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a difficult task that requires professional equipment and methods. However, there are a few things you can do regularly to make sure your ducts stay clean and functioning well. First, change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating into the ducts. This will also help to stop the clogging that could cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the dust and crumbs that build up over time and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory issues and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure by having your ducts checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particulates found in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as possible.
The most common indication of a problem with a compressor is a reduction in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common issue. Filters that have become blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to clean or replace the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
In addition, a clogged filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also look for air leaks in the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
Lastly, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there’s any issue. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Common signs that your thermostat needs a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your thermostat and HVAC equipment in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to connect with the system again.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Check for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for any signs of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It can also prolong the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year round. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues or are unsure about the issue make sure to contact a professional.
