The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked out, fixed or cleaned when required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
First and foremost, it is crucial to shut off the power to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being flooded when cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to clear any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is a great tool to reach into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The coils require to be cleaned. Be sure to have a few essential tools available before you start. These include a coil cleaner concentrate, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on in accordance with the directions on the product’s label and rinse with the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
Once you have a good coil and fin setup and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure temperatures are within the normal range.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This causes air filters to become blocked and reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. However, there are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure your ducts remain in good condition and function properly. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This can also help stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and a high energy bill.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the dust and crumbs that build up over time and help to improve air flow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed tight and lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues especially in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you replace your filter on a regular basis it might not be necessary to clean them. You can only be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor accredited by the EPA can employ special testing techniques to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to downtime for equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as it is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with a compressor. This could be caused by a variety of causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. If the filter is clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is important to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A loose pulley or belt can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the hoses, as well as a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indicator of an issue. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the head of your HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble arises. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat will get dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, you will need to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Find evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker and changing your batteries. Remember to call an expert if you’re having other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.