The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it concerns heating and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan that charges an annual fee to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as needed.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to accomplish. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated while cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin removing any large debris that could be blocking the condenser air. This will include cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Be sure to have the necessary tools in your arsenal before you begin. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse with a garden hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins are easily bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and start your air conditioning. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter regularly. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is another way to keep your ducts in good shape. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will assist in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory issues especially for children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions effectively. However If your ducts are sealed and you change your filters regularly it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. The best way to be able to tell the truth is to have your ducts tested. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can impact your productivity and result in interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to assist in identifying issues that are minor and avoid excessive downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in a compressor. It could be caused by a variety of reasons. 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. A clogged air filter is a different problem. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is essential to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A clogged filter may also cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A worn-out belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of leak. This is a risky problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there’s any issue. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly switching off and on, which is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be fixed with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll need to be reset to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. The fan blades should be checked for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Be sure to call a professional if you have any other issues, or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system, always call in an expert.
