The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay a monthly fee to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.
It’s also a good idea to perform some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the space around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
First and foremost, it is important to disconnect the power to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.
After the power is off, you can start clearing any large debris that may be blocking the condenser’s air. This means sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated around or on the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is an excellent way to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you begin however, make sure that you have in your possession some essential tools. These will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off using the water hose. When washing the coils it is important to not use excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.
When you have a great coil and fin set up then you can switch on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may be laden with dust and other contaminants. This can block the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system as well as burdens your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires expert equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts. This will also help stop clogging, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts cleaner. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all of the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and will assist in improving air flow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a wide variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory issues, particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be required at all. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, this can affect your productivity and cause interruption to your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as is possible.
A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, however this could be due to various factors. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent issue. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To avoid this, it is important to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A loose pulley or belt can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the 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 will also look for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor can be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will examine the thermostat first if there’s any issue. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is called short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be fixed with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries 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 control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to connect with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades should be checked for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it possibly can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Make sure that should you encounter any other issues, or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system you should always consult an expert.
