The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked, fixed or cleaned as necessary.
It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning 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 in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.
When the power is turned off, you can begin to clean up any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great method to reach into the nooks and crannies and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this, though, make sure that you have in your possession several essential tools. These include a concentrate for coil cleaning, 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 important to not use excessive force since the fins are easily bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
When the fins and coils are in good shape, you can return to your house and switch 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 is able to bring air from outside into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your home’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This could block air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. But, there are actions you can take regularly to make sure your ducts are clean and well-functioning. To avoid dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts cleaner. 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 airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions particularly in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed and you change your filters regularly, duct cleaning may not be required at all. The best way to determine for certain is to have your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can employ special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It should be able deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this can affect your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by keeping your unit as good as possible.
A typical indication of a problem with a compressor is a reduction in cooling capacity, however this could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This could 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 can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is crucial to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
In addition, a clogged filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for air leaks within the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of water near the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. 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 too surprising that a technician will check the thermostat first when there’s any issue. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which could cause the device to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also result in your system constantly switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. The fan blades must be inspected for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and ensure your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great method to save energy and keep your comfort in a commercial building. It can also prolong the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, setting 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.
