The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that charges an annual fee to have the system checked and cleaned, or repaired as required.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is a vital part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also quite simple to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life span of your air cooling.
It is the first step. It is essential to cut off the power supply to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker at your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated during cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can begin clearing any large debris that may be blocking the condenser’s air. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great method to get into the crevices and nooks and loosen dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you begin however, ensure that you have in your possession 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 to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off using the water hose. When washing the coils it is important to not use too much force as the fins can be bent easily.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.
If the fins and coils are in good condition Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your home and switch on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure temperatures are 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 your home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through a system of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This can block the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system as well as can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from accumulating up in the ducts. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can result in a lower efficiency of the system and higher energy costs.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will assist in improving airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also cause the growth of mold which releases spores into air and can cause health issues for those with respiratory issues.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is working efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be required at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use specific testing methods 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 element of the system. It has to be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as is possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in a compressor. This could be caused by several different reasons. One possibility is that a compressor could be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. If the filter is blocked, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is crucial to clean or change the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.
In addition, a clogged filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This is a risky problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there is any issue. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which may cause the device to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and save energy.
A faulty sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s a good idea to check the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it in order for your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. The fan blades need to be examined for signs of rust or damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it possibly can.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great method to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial building. It will also extend the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays cool throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.
