The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay an annual fee to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as needed.
It’s also recommended to do some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of debris will promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an important aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent expensive repairs and extend the life of your air conditioner.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means cleaning 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 way to reach into the crevices and nooks and remove any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you do this however, ensure that you have on-hand a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on in accordance with the directions on the product label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins are easily bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to help the coils function more efficiently.
When you have a great coil and fin set up then you can turn on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This causes air filters to become blocked and reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. First, change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from accumulating up in the ducts. This will also help prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is another way to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory issues, particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system functions effectively. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you clean your filters frequently, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles in your ductwork, and will suggest suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It needs to operate properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should it could affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as is possible.
A common sign of a compressor problem is a decrease in cooling capacity, however this could be due to various factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. If the filter is clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is essential to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Additionally, a blocked filter may also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings need to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A worn belt or pulley can slip and lead to overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also examine for air leaks within the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble arises. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat can become dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
Check the breakers for both your thermostat and HVAC equipment If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system, always call in a professional.