The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that allows you to pay each month to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as required.
It’s also recommended to do some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life span of your air conditioner.
First and foremost, it is important to disconnect the power to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker on your electrical box or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being flooded when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is an excellent way to reach into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you do this however, make sure that you have in your possession several essential tools. This will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. 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 to improve air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and switch on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system duct. 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 in turn reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. However, there are a few things you can do on a regular basis to ensure your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from accumulating up in the ducts. This will also help to stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and high energy bills.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all of the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and help to improve airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are protected from moisture entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can employ special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It should be able provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this can affect your productivity and cause interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A typical sign of a compressor issue is a reduction in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. If the filter is blocked, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is essential to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be changed. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A loose pulley or belt could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of leak. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there’s a problem. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration could result in your system constantly switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Make sure that should you encounter any other issues, or aren’t sure the issue you should always consult an expert.