The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that charges a monthly fee to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the space around outdoor units free of debris to promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to complete. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin to clear any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great option to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that has collected.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this however, ensure you have a few key tools. This will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and switch on your air conditioning. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat to ensure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by a system duct. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This could block air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a challenging task that requires specialized equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This can also help prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all the crumbs, cobwebs and other messes that have built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory problems especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed and you change your filters regularly it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required 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 will then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, it can affect your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as is possible.
A common sign of a compressor problem is a decrease in cooling capacity, however this could be due to a number of different factors. A compressor may be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
Additionally, a blocked filter can also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This can be a dangerous issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts 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 occurs. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. The most common signs that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat will become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is called short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be corrected by simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breakers.
If your system 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 tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for 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 it possibly can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial building. It will also extend the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year round. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system you should always consult an expert.