The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that allows you to pay each month to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
It’s also recommended to do some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of debris to promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to accomplish. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
First and foremost, it is essential to cut off the power 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 oversaturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin removing any large debris that could be hindering the air condenser. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is a great tool to get into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have a few essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. These include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any indications of damage. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure improved airflow and coil performance.
When you have a great coil and fin setup then you can switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dust and other pollutants. This can clog the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system as well as burdens your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do to keep your ducts tidy and in good working order. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens out of building up in the ducts. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are 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 myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory problems particularly in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working effectively. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you change your filter regularly it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It has to be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should, this could affect your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. However, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in the compressor. It could be caused by several different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. Filters that are blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or change the filters according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be changed. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Lastly, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble arises. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common indicators that your thermostat needs an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors may get dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s a good idea to check the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system again.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it possibly can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to save energy and maintain comfort in your commercial space. It can also prolong the life of cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are having any other problems or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.