The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your cooling and heating system, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your condenser for your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is an important aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life span of your air conditioner.
In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power source to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker at the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop 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 obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great tool to get into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have a few essential tools on hand before you start. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, then rinse with a water hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and switch on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they could become clogged with dust and other contaminants. This could block air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires expert equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do to keep your ducts tidy and working well. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This also helps to keep the clogs from occurring which can lead to reduced system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the cobwebs, crumbs and other messes that have accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory problems, particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical component of the system. It has to be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as it is possible.
A typical sign of a compressor problem is a reduction in cooling capacity, although this could be caused by various factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent problem. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is essential to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Additionally, a blocked filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove 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 compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there is any issue. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s operation. Common indicators that your thermostat is in need of an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors can become dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration could result in your system constantly turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be corrected by the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system again.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. 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 will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Be sure to call a professional if you have any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.
