The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan where you pay a monthly fee to have your system checked and cleaned, or repaired as needed.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of debris to promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the lifespan of your air conditioner.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated during 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 off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the nooks, crannies and remove dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure that you have in your possession some essential tools. This will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force as the fins can bend easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition, you can go back to your home and switch on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator in the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through the system ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This clogs the air filters which reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a challenging task that requires professional equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts. This will also help prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts in good shape. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all dust and crumbs that build up over time and help to improve airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are protected from moisture entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory and allergies particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you replace your filter on a regular basis, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA can use special testing techniques to measure the amount particulates found in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should, this could affect your productivity and result in interruption to your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as is possible.
A common sign of a compressor issue is a reduction in cooling capacity, however this could be due to various factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can wear out the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different problem. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is important to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is a good idea. A belt or pulley that is loose can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can also look for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. 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 can cause it to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat by using a an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately this can be resolved with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will need to be reset in order for the thermostat to connect with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Check for evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for any signs of rust or damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re having other issues or unsure of what is the issue with your system.