The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges the monthly cost to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned as needed.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life span of your air conditioner.
It is essential to disconnect the power source from your unit first. You can do this by turning off the breaker on your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated while cleaning.
When the power is turned off it is now time to clear any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great way to reach into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The coils must be cleaned. Before you begin however, make sure that you have in your possession a few key tools. These include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on in accordance with the directions on the product label and then rinse using the hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can go back to your home and start your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This can block the air filters, which decreases the efficiency of your system and burdens your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do to keep your ducts clean and functioning properly. First, change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This can also help prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and will assist in improving air flow through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to measure the amount of particles in your ductwork and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as possible.
A common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by a number of different factors. A compressor may be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common problem. Filters that are blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is essential to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will eliminate the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the head of your HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble arises. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors can get dirty. This could cause it 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 turn off and on continuously. This is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be fixed with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
Check the breakers for your HVAC and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. The fan blades should be checked for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid expensive repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it is possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial property. It will also extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.
