As the weather begins to warm up, many homeowners will be reaching for the air conditioner switch. However, before you cool down your home, it’s important to make sure that your air conditioner is in good working order.
But how often should you service your air conditioner to keep it running efficiently?
Generally, it’s recommended that you service your air conditioner at least once a year. However, this can vary depending on the type of air conditioner you have and how often you use it.
If your air con isn’t working, improving your maintenance schedule is one of the best ways to get it back in top shape.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at how often you should service your air conditioner to keep it running smoothly all summer long.
Do Air Conditioners Need Servicing?
Yes, air conditioners need to be serviced at least once a year, and more frequently if they are used regularly. A well-serviced air conditioner will not only cool your home more efficiently, but it will also help to extend its life.
Wondering what’s included in an AC service? Your technician will clean the filters and coils, check the refrigerant levels, and inspect the unit for any signs of wear and tear. They may also oil any moving parts to help keep them running smoothly.
What Happens When an Air Conditioner Isn’t Serviced?
Neglecting to service an air conditioner can lead to many problems, including decreased efficiency, increased energy costs, and potentially even damage to the unit itself.
One of the most common issues that can occur when an air conditioner isn’t serviced is the build-up of dirt and dust on the coils. This build-up reduces the ability of the coils to absorb heat, which in turn decreases the unit’s efficiency.
Additionally, dirty coils can cause the air conditioner to work harder, increasing energy costs. In extreme cases, dirt and dust build-up can even cause the coils to freeze, potentially damaging the air conditioner beyond repair.
How Often Do I Need to Service My Air Conditioner?
Most experts recommend that you service your air conditioner at least once a year, ideally before the start of summer. This ensures that your air conditioner is working at peak efficiency and can help prevent any potential breakdowns during the hotter months.
Servicing your air conditioner regularly can help extend its lifespan and save you money on running costs in the long term. By taking this simple step, you can help ensure that your air conditioner will provide years of trouble-free operation.
How Often Do I Need to Service a Split System Air Conditioner?
For a standard split system, it is generally recommended that you have your air conditioner serviced at least once a year, with the ideal time being at the start of the cooling season.
This ensures that any build-up of dirt and dust in the wall unit or filter is removed, and that the system is operating at peak efficiency. However, if you live in an area with high levels of pollution or dust, you may need to service your system more frequently.
How Often Should You Service a Ducted Air Conditioner?
Homeowners in Australia are encouraged to service their ducted air conditioners twice a year, as the local climate can be tough on these systems. This should include cleaning out ductwork and inspecting for any mould or contaminants.
What Are the Benefits of Servicing Your Air Conditioner?
By servicing your air conditioner regularly, you can extend its lifespan, improve efficiency, and keep your energy bills low.
Below we’ll discuss some of the benefits of servicing your air conditioner so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s right for you.
Benefits of air con servicing include:
Regular Maintenance Prevents Breakdowns
One of the most essential benefits of servicing your air conditioner is that it helps to prevent breakdowns. When you don’t service your air conditioner regularly, minor problems can quickly become significant issues. By identifying and addressing these issues early on, you can save yourself a lot of time, money, and headaches down the road.
Improved Efficiency & Lower Energy Bills
Another benefit of servicing your air conditioner is that it can help improve its efficiency. When your air conditioner is running efficiently, it doesn’t have to work as hard to cool your home, which means that it uses less energy and puts less strain on the system. This translates into lower energy bills for you and a longer lifespan for your air conditioner.
Better Air Quality in Your Home
Finally, regular servicing of your air conditioner can also help improve the air quality in your home. When your air conditioner isn’t serviced regularly, dirt and dust can build up in the system, which is then redistributed into your home every time you turn on the AC. This can cause respiratory problems for people with allergies or asthma. By servicing your air conditioner regularly, you can help ensure that the air in your home is clean and free of allergens and other contaminants.
As you can see, there are many benefits to servicing your air conditioner regularly. Regular servicing is crucial for keeping your AC running smoothly all summer long, from extending its lifespan to improving its efficiency to maintaining healthy indoor air quality.
So if you last had your AC serviced a while ago, now is the time to do it! Your wallet – and your lungs – will thank you.
How Do I Know If My Air Con Needs to be Serviced?
As the temperatures start to heat up, you know it won’t be long before you need to rely on your air conditioner to keep your home cool and comfortable. But how can you tell if your air conditioner needs a service?
Here are four signs that it’s time to call in a professional:
1. Your Air Conditioner Is Making Strange Noises
If your air conditioner is creaking, grinding, or making any noises that it hasn’t made before, it’s time to call in a professional. These sounds could indicate that there is something wrong with the fan motor or the compressor. Ignoring the problem could result in further damage to your unit.
2. Your Air Conditioner Isn’t Cooling Your Home Evenly
If you notice that some rooms in your house are warmer than others, it’s likely that your air conditioner isn’t working as efficiently as it should be. This problem could be caused by several factors, including a dirty air filter or a blockage in the ductwork. A professional can diagnose and fix the problem quickly and easily.
3. Your Energy Bills Have Increased Unexpectedly
If you’ve noticed that your energy bills have spiked recently, but you haven’t made any significant changes to your AC usage, it’s likely that your unit is no longer operating as efficiently as it once did. Servicing your unit will improve its efficiency and help to lower your energy bills back down to their normal level.
4. There Is Water Pooling Around Your Air Conditioner Unit
If you notice water pooling around your air conditioner unit, it’s important to call a professional right away. This could indicate a refrigerant leak, which can cause severe damage to your unit if left unchecked. A qualified technician will be able to repair the leak and recharge the system so that it’s operating correctly again.
Your air conditioner is essential to keeping your home comfortable during the hot summer months. If you notice any of the above signs, it’s important to call in a professional for servicing as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your unit.
By taking proactive steps to maintain your AC unit, you can ensure that it will continue to run smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
Can You Service Your Air Conditioner Yourself?
There are some things you can do to maintain your AC unit yourself. However, it’s generally recommended that you professionally service your air conditioner at least once a year. This is because a service is more thorough and allows a professional to detect any problems early.
Some DIY tasks you can do to keep your air conditioner in good shape include:
- Check the filters monthly and clean or replace them as needed
- Keep the area around your air conditioner clean and free of debris
- Check the coils are clean and dust-free (but the cleaning itself is best done by a professional)
- Avoid using your air conditioner during peak hours when electricity usage is high
By following the tips above, you can help ensure that your air conditioner runs smoothly all summer long.
If you’re ever unsure about how to maintain your air conditioner, be sure to consult with a professional. They will be able to give you tailored advice based on the make and model of your air conditioner.
Conclusion
Servicing your air conditioner once a year is the best way to keep it running efficiently and prevent any potential breakdowns. Be sure to book a service before the start of summer so you can enjoy cool, comfortable temperatures all season long.
Related Questions
What Is the Lifespan of an Air Conditioner?
While many assume that air conditioners are built to last a lifetime, the truth is that they have a lifespan of around 10-15 years before they need to be replaced. Of course, this timeframe can vary depending on several factors, such as how often the unit is used and whether it has been properly maintained. With proper care, some air conditioners may last even longer.
However, sooner or later, all units will reach the end of their lifespan and will need to be replaced. When this time comes, it is important to consult with a qualified professional to ensure that you choose a unit that is well-suited for your needs.
Does a Reverse Cycle Air Conditioner Need Servicing?
Like any piece of machinery, a reverse cycle air conditioner needs to be properly maintained in order to function properly. It is recommended that homeowners have their reverse cycle air conditioner serviced on an annual basis.
Over time, the filters will become clogged with dust and debris, and the coils will become covered with dirt and grime. If left unchecked, these problems can lead to decreased cooling and heating efficiency and higher energy bills.
Do Portable Air Conditioners Need Servicing?
While it is true that portable AC units require little maintenance, portable air conditioners still need to be serviced. Servicing your portable air conditioner regularly will help ensure it stays hygienic and functioning effectively.
DIY maintenance for these units should include regularly cleaning the filter, checking the drainage system and emptying the water tank. A professional service each year will also ensure the unit stays clean and has the correct level of refrigerant.
Disclaimer:
This article is published in good faith and for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute an estimate or quote for any specific service. Platinum Power & Air does not make any warranties about the ongoing completeness, reliability and accuracy of this information. This article is not intended to replace consultation with a licensed air conditioning technician.
