The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned if required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of debris will promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system is likely to struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to accomplish. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life span of your air conditioner.
It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded when cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can start removing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser air. This will include cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is an excellent way to reach into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before you do this, though, make sure that you have in your possession several essential tools. These will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the product label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force since the fins are easily bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to 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, return to your home and switch on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning 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 in your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. 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 as well as strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter frequently. 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 a different method to keep your ducts cleaner. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the dust and crumbs that build up over time and aid in improving airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not regularly cleaned can become loaded with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory issues especially in the elderly and children. The moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell the truth is to have your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles 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 operating in the way it should, this can affect your productivity and cause interruption to your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as possible.
A typical indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, but this could be due to a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. Filters that are blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is essential to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Additionally, a blocked filter may also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings must be changed. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
Lastly, a puddle of water near the compressor could be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there’s a problem. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat can get dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat 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 communicate again with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great method to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It also increases the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system, always call in an expert.
