The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges an annual fee to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power source to your unit. This can be done 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 during cleaning.
When the power is turned off it is now time to remove any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have been accumulating around or on the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great method to get into the crevices and nooks and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Be sure to have the necessary tools available prior to beginning. These will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, 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.
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 can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
After you have a proper coil and fin set up and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers and vents through a system ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become loaded with dust and other pollutants. This can clog the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task that requires professional equipment and methods. However, there are a few things you can do regularly to make sure your ducts remain clean and well-functioning. First, change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens out of building in the ducts. This can also help prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts in good shape. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and assist in improving airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions, especially in children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory issues.
It’s generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you regularly change your filter It may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can affect your productivity and cause equipment downtime. However, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as possible.
A common sign of a compressor problem is a reduction in cooling capacity, although this could be caused by many different causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. If the filter is clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To prevent this, it is important to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
In addition, a clogged filter may also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings require 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 issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will check the thermostat first when there is any issue. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat can get dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may lead to your system continuously turning on and off this is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. These issues can be resolved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not excessively exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It will also extend the life of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year round. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re having any other problems or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.
