The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your cooling and heating system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned if needed.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of clutter to allow for proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is a vital aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the life span of your air conditioner.
First and foremost, it is essential to cut off the power supply to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside 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 has been turned off, you can begin clearing any large objects that could be hindering the air condenser. This will include cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is an excellent way to reach into the crevices, nooks and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The coils must be cleaned. Make sure you have some essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. These will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, then rinse it off with the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much 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, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and help the coils function more effectively.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your house and turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be a difficult task that requires professional equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and working well. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts. This can also help prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also lead to 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 to have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you replace your filter on a regular basis, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine for certain is to have your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particles in your ductwork and will suggest suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical component of the system. It should be able deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should, this can affect your productivity and result in delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as it is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent problem. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is important to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is a good 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 your compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can also look for air leaks in the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there’s an issue. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common indicators that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat will get dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with an additional thermometer.
A defective sensor or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It also increases the life of heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays at all times comfortable by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Remember to call an expert if you’re having other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.
