The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay the monthly cost to get the system checked, fixed or cleaned when needed.
It’s also recommended to do a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power to your unit. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to remove any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This will include sweeping away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great way to reach into the crevices, nooks and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you do this however, make sure that you have on-hand some essential tools. These include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product’s label and then rinse it off using 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 following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and to aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
When you have a great coil and fin setup then you can turn on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil in the condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and techniques. However, there are some actions you can take regularly to ensure your ducts are clean and well-functioning. First, change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts. This can also help stop clogging, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory problems particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles 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 important component of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, this can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to interruption to your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as is possible.
A typical sign of a compressor problem is a decrease in cooling capacity, but this could be caused by many different causes. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. If the filter is blocked it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To avoid this, it is important to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A clogged filter may also cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A loose pulley or belt could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that can corrode 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 can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there is any issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which could cause the device to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also cause your system to keep turning on and off this is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting to allow the thermostat to connect with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the near future, and ensure your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great strategy to reduce energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It will also extend the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you have any other issues, or are unsure about the issue make sure to contact a professional.
