How to keep your ducted reverse cycle system in good working condition
Posted on: 27 February 2018
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Ducted reverse cycle air conditioning make for convenient HVAC units for both homes and businesses. They operate by offering an all-in-one solution where cool air can be channeled into the home in the summer, and warm air can be circulated during the winter.
To avoid costly repairs down the road, it is important to regularly inspect and maintain your reverse cycle system. The relatively high initial cost of installing such units makes it even more important to maintain them over time.
Maintenance of your system is best carried out by certified technicians. During their routine inspections of your system, they will check the following components.
Indoor fan
The indoor fan is an important part of your reverse cycle air conditioning system. It is primarily responsible for drawing cool air from the home and passing it over the refrigerant fluid for cooling purposes.
The fan should be inspected at least once or twice a year (when the seasons change). Fans may be prone to collecting large amounts of dirt and debris that can result in clogged air vents or worn out fan blades.
Ducts and vents
The biggest hindrance to any air conditioning unit is clogged ducts and vents. Vents are the primary channel through which air flows and they need to be regularly cleaned.
With proper maintenance from a reputable contractor, you can have your ducts cleaned 1-2 times per year to ensure optimum airflow during both the summer and the winter.
Compressor
The compressor is the main unit responsible for cooling warm air from the home and channeling it back into your premises. In reverse cycle systems, the compressor is also capable of heating cold air from the home and circulating it back to various rooms.
The outdoor compressor should be properly stabilised to prevent it from moving around in strong winds or heavy precipitation. Contractors will install the necessary mountings to keep the unit in place and inspect the entire compressor for signs of corrosion.
Refrigerant levels and pipe connections
To ensure that there are no leaks in the refrigerant fluid, contractors will inspect your reverse cycle system for changes in fluid levels and any breakages in the surrounding pipes. They will also fasten loose pipe fittings and ensure that fluid is not being wasted within the pipe area.
The temperature of the air being produced will also be checked against the thermostat reading. Ducted reverse cycle air conditioners are known for their temperature accuracy when generating both warm and cool air. If any discrepancies are detected, the temperature sensors of the system will need to be checked for accuracy.