The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it is concerned with heating and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan where you pay a monthly fee to have your system checked and cleaned, or repaired as needed.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty the system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. This is why cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner.
It is essential to disconnect the power source from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker at the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to clean up any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great way to get into the nooks and crevices and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this however, ensure you have a few key tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse it off using the hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and help the coils function more efficiently.
If the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your house and start your air conditioning. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are within the normal range.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the house. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may be laden with dust and other contaminants. This clogs the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires professional equipment and techniques. But, there are actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure your ducts stay clean and functioning well. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This can also help stop clogging, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for older people and children. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine for sure is by having your ducts tested. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use special testing techniques to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component 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 the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by keeping your unit as good as possible.
A common sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, although this could be due to a number of different factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is crucial to clean or change the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is recommended. A loose pulley or belt can slip and lead to overheating of the compressor and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in hoses, as well as a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
Finally, a small puddle of water around the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky problem and needs to be fixed 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 boss of your HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can aid in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A faulty sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Look for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great way to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial building. It can also prolong the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year. Just remember that in case you experience any other issues, or aren’t sure the issue you should always consult an expert.