The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that charges a monthly fee to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.
It’s also a good idea to perform some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of debris to promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life of your air conditioner.
In the beginning, it is essential to cut off the power to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated when cleaning.
When the power is turned off it is now time to clean up any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This means 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 reach into the crevices and nooks and remove any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before you do this however, ensure that you have in your possession several essential tools. These will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, then rinse it off using a water hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
When the fins and coils are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and start your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and ensure that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your house. The air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system duct. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become clogged with dust and other contaminants. This can block the air filters which reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. First, change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This also helps to stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and high energy bills.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all of the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will assist in improving air flow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It is recommended to clean your ductwork every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you regularly change your filter, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different causes. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent issue. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the recommendations of the manufacturer.
In addition, a clogged filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A belt or pulley that is loose 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 help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indicator of a leak. This is a risky problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there’s an issue. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s operation. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the device to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep switching on and off this is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort, and 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.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Finally, the fan blades need to be examined for any signs of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great method to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It also increases the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues, or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system, always call in a professional.
