The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, regular maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan that allows you to pay each month to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
It’s also recommended to do some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air cooling.
It is the first step. It is essential to cut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin to remove any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is a great way to reach into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before you do this however, make sure that you have on-hand some essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off with a hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force since the fins can be bent easily.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to help the coils function more effectively.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your house. The air is transported from the evaporator in the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through a system ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires specialized equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. First, change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens out of building up in the ducts. This can also help stop clogging, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy bills.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory problems particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture in ductwork can also cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this can affect your productivity and cause downtime for equipment. However, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as is possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by many different causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. Filters that are blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A loose pulley or belt can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other problems. 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 check for leaks in the hoses, as well as a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
Lastly, a small puddle of water around the compressor could be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the compressor that is running and then 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 among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. Common indicators that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting to allow the thermostat to connect with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great method to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial building. It will also 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 cool all year. Remember to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.
