The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it concerns cooling and heating systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay each month to have your system checked and cleaned, or repaired as required.
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 debris to promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser of your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an important component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to accomplish. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.
In the beginning, it is essential to cut off the power source to your unit. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off it is now time to clean up any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great option to get into the nooks and crevices and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that has collected.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have the necessary tools in your arsenal prior to beginning. These will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, then rinse it off using a garden hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your home and start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may be laden with dirt and other contaminates. This could block air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a difficult task that requires expert equipment and methods. There are some things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and working well. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This also helps to keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another method to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the cobwebs, crumbs and other messes that have been accumulating over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems especially in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts tested. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to gauge the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical component of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to interruption to your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and avoid excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by keeping your unit as good as possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with the compressor. It could be caused by several different causes. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent problem. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or replace the filters regularly based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indicator of a leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and call a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there is a problem. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of rust and damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great way to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It will also extend the life of heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker and changing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are having other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.
