The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay a monthly fee to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of clutter to allow for the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool properly and may even break down. This is why cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power supply to your unit. 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 getting overloaded during cleaning.
When the power is turned off it is now time to clear any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This will include sweeping away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great way to reach into the nooks and crevices and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that has collected.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure that you have in your possession a few key tools. These include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
After you have a proper coil and fin setup and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air travels from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires specialized equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts remain clean and functioning well. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Another method to keep your ducts clean 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 air flow through the vent. It is also important to ensure 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 have not been regularly cleaned can become loaded with a variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those with respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It should be able deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to interruption to your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in the compressor. It could be caused by several different causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common issue. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is crucial to change or clean the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.
A clogged filter may also cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings must be changed. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is a good idea. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in hoses, and a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of water near the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the head of your entire HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble occurs. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for your HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system once more.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it possibly can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is a great way to reduce the cost of energy, maintain comfort, and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year round. Be sure to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is the issue with your system.
