How to Maintain Your Variable Air Volume System or Ductless Mini Splits?
Air conditioning is one of the most difficult things to live without. Irrespective of the type of air conditioner you have, following proper maintenance practices is the right way to keep it running effectively.
Different air conditioning uses different systems to cool. The most common are variable air volume systems and mini split or ductless systems. Both systems need special care to work in their best condition.
Variable air volume
Multiply-story buildings have water-cooled HVAC systems serving the complete building. They use chilled water instead of refrigerant to eliminate heat. Cold water is pumped from a big chiller serving the complete building through pipes.
If your building has a water-cooled system, you need proper equipment that connects to your building's base system and circulates air all around. Variable air volume HVAC systems are installed for this. It offers better temperature, lower compressor wear, and less fan noise.
Ductless mini splits
Ductless mini splits are systems to cool a particular area where ductwork cannot be done. A conduit links the indoor and outdoor units with electric circuits and refrigerant. As no duct is needed, ductless split systems are simpler to install.
Both systems need proper maintenance and cleaning for efficient function.
Significance of Maintenance
Though all heating and air conditioning systems need regular maintenance, offering your ductless mini split and VAV system the consistent attention and servicing it needs is especially important.
These systems require free air circulation for the indoor and outdoor units to operate effectively. Hence, periodic filter cleaning is vital to keep your unit operating in good condition. If you fail to clean the filters, it will not just waste your money and energy but also damage the expensive components of the system.
Cleaning condenser coils
Apart from the basic filter changes, you should also clean the condenser coils. First, turn off the unit's power to avoid any electric shock and give it some time to cool down. Till then, you can look at the outdoor unit. Ensure there is a 4-feet clearance in all the units.
After the unit is cool, you can clean the air filter, coil, and other components using a dry cloth. It is also important to see the growth of any mold or mildew. Also, check the ice and condensation buildup.
If you think you cannot do it on your own, go for a full professional inspection.
Professional inspection
Schedule a yearly assessment, cleaning, and tune-up of the HVAC units. Hire professional technicians to comprehensively check your VAV and ductless systems and recommend the maintenance they need. It will help save on high emergency repairs and also maintain high cooling.
Effect of good maintenance
As per Massachusetts Mass Save, an inefficiently maintained mini split or VAV control system can use 25% additional energy to operate daily. Hence, it is very important to focus on food maintenance.
Take care of your units to extend their life. As these units are costlier to buy and install, you would want to maximize your investment with good maintenance as much as possible.
