The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned when required.
You should also perform some 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 that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs, and increase the life span of your air cooling.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated while cleaning.
When the power is turned off, you can begin to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great way to get into the crevices and nooks and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that has collected.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have some essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the label of the product and then rinse using the hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force since the fins can bend easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to help the coils function more efficiently.
When you have a great coil and fin setup and you are ready to turn on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your home’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 and strains your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires expert equipment and methods. There are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. First, you should change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This will also help stop clogging, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will assist in improving airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions particularly in children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you replace your filter on a regular basis, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure by having your ducts checked. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and will suggest suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It has to be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.
The most common sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by many different causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is important to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.
A clogged filter may also cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings require to be changed. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. 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 the compressor on a regular basis. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of leak. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A faulty sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is called short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately this can be corrected by the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades should be checked for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut the cost of energy, maintain comfort and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays at all times comfortable by identifying any issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.
