The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked out, fixed or cleaned when required.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some of the DIY maintenance tasks 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 of the condenser of your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. This is why cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life span of your air cooling.
It is crucial to disconnect the power source from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin removing any large objects that could be hindering the air condenser. This includes 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 way to reach into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has built up.
The coils require to be cleaned. Make sure you have the necessary tools on hand prior to beginning. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, and then rinse it off using a hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage 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 shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your home and start your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by a system of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This could block air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a difficult task that requires professional equipment and methods. But, there are actions you can take regularly to make sure your ducts stay clean and functioning well. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can result in a lower efficiency of the system and high energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all of the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and assist in improving air flow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is working effectively. However, if your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts tested. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly it could affect your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as is possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in the compressor. It could be caused by several different factors. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common issue. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Additionally, a blocked filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Common indicators that your thermostat needs a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors may become dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be corrected by the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Find evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades need to be examined for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort and prolong the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year round. Make sure that should you encounter any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system, always call in an expert.