The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges a low monthly rate to get the system checked, fixed or cleaned if necessary.
It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
First and foremost, it is essential to cut off the power to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.
After the power is off, you can start removing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser air. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves 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 crevices and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Be sure to have the necessary tools on hand prior to beginning. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product label and then rinse using the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for indications of damage. Over time, hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good shape, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioning. After about 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This can block the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy job and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do to keep your ducts tidy and working well. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter frequently. This will also help to stop clogging, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy bills.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts clean. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and help to improve airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, especially in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particulates in your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to downtime for equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as it is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with the compressor. It could be caused by several different causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent problem. Filters that are blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is essential to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Additionally, a blocked filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the head of your HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid this issue by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A defective sensor or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is called short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the near future, and ensure your equipment is operating as efficiently as possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort, and extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.