The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges the monthly cost 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 any debris will ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. Cleaning them is an important component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life span of your air cooling.
It is essential to disconnect the power source from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker at the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated while cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin to clean up any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great method to reach into the nooks and crannies and loosen any dirt, dust or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have a few essential tools available prior to beginning. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer, and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, then rinse it off with the hose. When washing the coils, it is important to not use too much force since the fins can bend easily.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and turn on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator in your condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become loaded with dust and other pollutants. This clogs the air filters, which in turn reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires expert equipment and methods. There are some things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. To avoid dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This will also help to prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts in good shape. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will assist in improving airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and lined to stop moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a wide variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory and allergies particularly for older people and children. Moisture can cause mold to develop in ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However, if your ducts are well-sealed and you change your filters regularly, duct cleaning may not be required at all. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particulates found in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should, this could affect your productivity and cause downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by keeping your unit as good as possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, but this could be due to many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent issue. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To avoid this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can also check for air leaks in the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of leak. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously turning on and off this is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs 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 to find signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it is possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year round. Remember to call an expert if you’re having other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.