The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that charges an annual fee to have your system checked and cleaned, or repaired as needed.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is an important component of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great option to reach into the nooks and crevices and loosen dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have a few essential tools on hand prior to beginning. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label of the product and then rinse it off using the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your home and start your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in the condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This could block air filters, which decreases the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task and requires expert equipment and techniques. But, there are actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts are clean and well-functioning. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This can also help stop clogging, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all dust and crumbs that build up over time, and assist in improving air flow through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory issues especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system functions effectively. However If your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particles that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It should be able provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can impact your productivity and cause downtime for equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as it is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with a compressor. This can be caused by a variety of factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different problem. If the filter is blocked it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is a good idea. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. 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 check for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble arises. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common indicators that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is called short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be resolved with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breakers.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is running as smoothly as it is possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great method to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It can also prolong the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year round. Just remember that if you have any other issues, or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact a professional.
