The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked, fixed or cleaned as required.
It’s also recommended to do some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty the system will struggle to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin taking down any large debris that could be hindering the air condenser. This means taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you do this however, make sure that you have in your possession some essential tools. These will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off using a garden hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force as the fins are easily bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure 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. Air is moved from the evaporator inside your condenser unit to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may become loaded with dust and other pollutants. This could block air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a challenging task that requires expert equipment and methods. But, there are actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This also helps to stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is another way to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, especially for older people and children. Moisture in ductwork can also cause the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health risks for those with respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ductwork every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed and you change your filters regularly, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particles present 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 must be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly it could affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by several different causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. If the filter is clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To prevent this, it is essential to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings need to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is a good idea. 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 can remove accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble occurs. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect 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 inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great way to save energy and maintain comfort in your commercial space. It will also extend the life of heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays comfortable throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues or are unsure of the issue make sure to contact a professional.
