The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay each month to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as 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 space around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is an important aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the life of your air conditioner.
First and foremost, it is essential to cut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by shutting 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 being oversaturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off it is now time to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is a great way to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The coils must be cleaned. Make sure you have some essential tools in your arsenal prior to beginning. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, then rinse with a water hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to help the coils function more effectively.
After you have a proper coil and fin set up, you can turn on your air conditioner. After around 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 from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and in good working order. First, change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens out of building up in the ducts. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts cleaner. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all of the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and assist in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned can become loaded with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those with respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working effectively. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. The best way to know the truth is to have your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates found in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
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 properly, it can affect your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. However, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by a variety of factors. A compressor may be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. If the filter is clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is essential to clean or change the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings require to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn belt or pulley 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 get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of leak. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble occurs. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat needs an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors may get dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could lead to your system continuously turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your thermostat and HVAC equipment in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. The fan blades must be inspected for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to reduce energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial property. It also increases the life of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you are having any other problems or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.