The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges the monthly cost to get the system checked, fixed or cleaned when needed.
It’s also a good idea to perform some 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 in the condenser of your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air cooling.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit first. You can do this by shutting off the breaker at the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.
Once the power has been turned off, you can begin clearing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser air. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great option to reach into the nooks and crannies and loosen any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Make sure you have the necessary tools on hand prior to beginning. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer, and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with a water hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for signs of damage. 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 for improved 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. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure temperatures are within the normal range.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers and vents through a system ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This can block the air filters, which decreases the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. However, there are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts remain clean and functioning well. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This can also help keep the clogs from occurring which can lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time and help to improve air flow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory issues especially in the elderly and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those with respiratory issues.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working effectively. If your ducts are well-sealed, 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 particles in your ductwork and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should it could affect your productivity and lead to the equipment to shut down. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with the compressor. It could be caused by several different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common problem. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A clogged filter may also cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn-out belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble arises. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat is in need of an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat by using a an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately this can be fixed with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for 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 in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as it can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It will also extend the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year. Remember to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s going on with your system.
