The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay an annual fee to have the system inspected and cleaned or repaired when needed.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even break down. Cleaning them is an important aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to accomplish. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the life span of your air cooling.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. 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 getting overloaded when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin to clean up any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great method to get into the crevices and nooks and remove any dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
The coils must be cleaned. Before doing this, though, make sure that you have in your possession some essential tools. These include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, then rinse with the hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.
When the fins and coils are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your home and switch on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by a system duct. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires professional equipment and methods. But, there are actions you can take on a regular basis to make sure your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. To stop dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from entering, 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 exacerbate respiratory and allergies, especially for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts are sealed well and you change your filter regularly it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles that are present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify small issues early, preventing 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 is possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, although this could be caused by many different causes. A compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent problem. If the filter is clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A belt or pulley that is loose 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 can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the hoses, as well as a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will examine the thermostat first if there’s an issue. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can aid in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also result in your system constantly switching off and on, which is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be fixed with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to connect with the system again.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Look for signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the near future, and ensure your equipment is operating as efficiently as it is possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut the cost of energy, maintain comfort and extend the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system you should always consult a professional.
