The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned when required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by turning off the breaker on the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
When the power is turned off, you can begin to clear any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great method to get into the crevices and nooks and remove any dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have the necessary tools in your arsenal prior to beginning. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the product label and rinse with the hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and ensure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via a system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires professional equipment and methods. But, there are actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure your ducts remain in good condition and function properly. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy bills.
Another way to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all of the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will assist in improving air flow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned can become loaded with a wide variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory issues, particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles in your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it can affect your productivity and cause equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment in the best condition possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in a compressor. This can be caused by several different reasons. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different issue. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter could cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the hoses, as well as a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there is any issue. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors will get dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. 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 continuously. This is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for both your thermostat and HVAC equipment if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it possibly can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort, and extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Just remember that if you have any other issues, or are unsure of the issue, always call in a professional.
