The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay the monthly cost to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as needed.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin taking down any large debris that may be blocking the condenser’s air. This means cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great method to reach into the crevices and nooks and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you do this however, ensure that you have in your possession some essential tools. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force as the fins can be bent easily.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils 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. After about 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a system of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could be laden with dust and other pollutants. This can block the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system and can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a difficult task that requires expert equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. First, change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens out of building up in the ducts. This will also help to prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues, particularly in the elderly and children. The moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working effectively. If your ducts have been sealed well and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It has to be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this could affect the efficiency of your business and lead to interruption to your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment as efficient as possible.
A typical indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, but this could be due to many different causes. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the boss 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 proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors can get dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat by using a an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could lead to your system continuously switching off and on, which is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Finally, the fan blades should be checked for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent expensive repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Be sure to call a professional if you are having other issues or aren’t sure what’s going on with your system.