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 have the system checked, fixed or cleaned when required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system will struggle to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life span of your air conditioner.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping off any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is a great way to get into the crevices, nooks and remove dirt or dust that has accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before you do this however, ensure that you have on-hand some essential tools. These include a concentrate of the coil cleaner, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product’s label and then rinse using the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force since the fins can be bent easily.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
If the fins and coils are in good shape, you can return to your house and switch on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This can block the air filters and reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on 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 functioning properly. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from accumulating into the ducts. This can also help stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and help to improve airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory problems especially for children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those suffering from respiratory issues.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you replace your filter on a regular basis it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component 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 and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and cause equipment downtime. Regular maintenance can help you identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in the compressor. It could be caused by a variety of reasons. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. If the filter is blocked it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is crucial to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
In addition, a clogged filter may also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn belt or pulley could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there is an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A defective sensor or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your thermostat and HVAC equipment in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will need to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great method to save energy and keep your comfort in a commercial building. It will also extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Remember to call an expert if you’re having any other problems or unsure of what is wrong with your system.
