The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it is concerned with heating and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked, fixed or cleaned if needed.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated while cleaning.
After the power is off, you can start taking down any large debris that may be hindering the air condenser. This includes sweeping off any sticks, leaves or other debris that has accumulated around or on the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great option to reach into the nooks and crannies and loosen any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before you begin, though, make sure you have several essential tools. These include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force as the fins are easily bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape, you can return to your house and turn on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air is transported from the evaporator in your condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by a system ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This can block the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system and can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a difficult task that requires expert equipment and methods. However, there are a few actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts remain clean and functioning well. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from building up in the ducts. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is another way to keep your ducts clean. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the dust and crumbs that build up over time and help to improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned can become loaded with a variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working effectively. However it is possible that if your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts checked. A contractor accredited by the EPA can employ special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical 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 can affect your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A typical sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by various factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent problem. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To avoid this, it is important to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter can also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings must be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A belt or pulley that is loose can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of water near the compressor could be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there is a problem. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Common indicators that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration may lead to your system continuously turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, 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, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it possibly can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year. Make sure to contact a professional if you are having any other problems or aren’t sure what’s going on with your system.