The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan where you pay an annual fee to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
It’s also a good idea to perform some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit first. You can do this by turning off the breaker at your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated during cleaning.
Once the power is off and you are able to clear any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great way to reach into the nooks and crevices and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have the necessary tools on hand before you begin. These will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the product’s label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils it is important to not use too much force since the fins can bend easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
Once the coils and fins 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 conditioning. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system duct. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become clogged with dust and other contaminants. This can clog the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task and requires expert equipment and methods. However, there are some actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure your ducts are in good condition and function properly. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to stop the clogging that could lead to reduced 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 remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory problems, particularly in the elderly and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is operating effectively. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to gauge the amount of particulates in your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and result in downtime for your equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A common sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, but this could be due to many different causes. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. If the filter is blocked, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To avoid this, it is important to clean or change the filters regularly based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A blocked filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there is a problem. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective 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 ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could lead to your system continuously switching on and off this is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your thermostat and HVAC equipment If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system again.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades to find signs of rust and damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system, always call in a professional.
