The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges the monthly cost to get the system checked, fixed or cleaned as necessary.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your condenser for your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is essential to disconnect the power source from your unit first. You can do this by turning off the breaker on your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can start taking down any large debris that may be hindering the condenser air. This includes sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that have accumulated around or on the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments 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 next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have some essential tools available prior to beginning. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should examine them for signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to aid in the operation of the coils 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 home and switch on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your home’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This could block air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be a difficult task that requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are some things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts stay clean and functioning well. To prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This can also help stop clogging, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other messes that have built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could 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 worsen respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles within your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should it could affect your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as it is possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in a compressor. It could be caused by several different causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. Filters that are blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to clean or replace the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A small puddle of water around the compressor could be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there is an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can aid in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A faulty sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be fixed with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breaker.
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 tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure 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 is running as smoothly as it can.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is a great way to reduce energy costs, maintain comfort and prolong the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure of the issue, always call in a professional.
