The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your cooling and heating system, regular maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned when needed.
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 area around outdoor units free of debris to promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and electrical components from being flooded when cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can start removing any large debris that could be blocking the condenser’s air. This means sweeping off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great method to reach into the nooks and crannies and loosen any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Before you do this however, make sure that you have in your possession some essential tools. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, and then rinse with the water hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good shape, you can return to your house and turn on your air conditioning. After about 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a system of 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 in turn reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy job and requires expert equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. First, change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts. This can also help prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy bills.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation 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 wide variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you change your filters regularly it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates found in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It needs to operate properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can affect your productivity and result in delays for your equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in the compressor. This could be caused by a variety of reasons. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. If the filter is blocked, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is essential to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn belt or pulley could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also examine for air leaks within the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Lastly, a puddle of water near the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which may cause the device to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be fixed with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will have to be reset to allow the thermostat to connect with the system once more.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not excessively exposed to the sun. The fan blades should be checked for any signs of damage or rust. 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 reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It also increases the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year round. Remember to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is wrong with your system.
