The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned when needed.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance 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 in the condenser in your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty the system is likely to struggle to cool and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life of your air conditioner.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being oversaturated during cleaning.
When the power is turned off and you are able to remove any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has built up around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great option to get into the nooks and crannies and remove any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure you have several essential tools. This will include a coil cleaner concentrate 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 as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and help the coils function more effectively.
When the fins and coils are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and start your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become loaded with dust and other pollutants. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be a challenging task that requires professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter regularly. This can also help prevent the clogging that can result in a lower efficiency of the system and high energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and aid in improving airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a wide variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergies, especially for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working efficiently. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to interruption to your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as is possible.
A typical sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, but this could be caused by many different causes. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Additionally, a blocked filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn belt or pulley can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a good idea 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 will also look for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indicator of an issue. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there’s a problem. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Common signs that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors may become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also result in your system constantly turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system once more.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the life of your heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.
