Keeping your air conditioning system in its best shape is crucial for your comfort, saving energy, and saving money in the long run.
Whether you rely on your aircon at home during the hottest months of the year, use a split system unit to use in each season, or run a commercial system year-round, regular servicing for your aircon is the key to avoiding unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.
But how often should your air conditioning unit be serviced, and what does an air conditioning service actually involve?
In this blog, we’ll explain what to expect from a service, why it matters, and how often you should book one to keep your system running smoothly.
What is an air conditioning service, and what can you expect?
An air conditioning service is a check to make sure that your AC unit is performing as it should.
It’s key for your air conditioning unit to maintain its effectiveness when you need it most, while also extending its lifespan. It requires routine maintenance performed by skilled engineers who will often follow the necessary steps.
Visual inspection
An experienced engineer will examine all major components, such as the compressor, condenser and electrical connections, for any signs of wear and/or damage that could lead to breakdowns and further damage if left unaddressed and untreated.
Thorough cleaning of the unit
The technician will carry out a deep cleaning of the system’s components. Dust, dirt, and debris can collect inside your air conditioning unit over time, affecting the unit’s efficiency.
It’s worth mentioning that this shouldn’t wait until the service. Although the technician will clean areas with trapped dust/dirt that you may not be able to reach, cleaning your air conditioning units regularly helps your system cool more effectively and extends its lifespan.
Simply checking and giving your AC unit a gentle scrub every month or so is a massive help that your unit will thank you for.
Checking (and replacing) the air filters
Your technician will also check one of the most important parts of your air conditioning unit, your air filter. Your AC’s air filters can become clogged, which can force your system to work much harder, putting strain on your unit and slowing it down.
Your technician will check and clean these air filters or, depending on the severity of the wear on the air filters, replace them.
Why is it important to service your air conditioning unit?
Keeping on top of your air conditioning unit with a regular service can save you massive headaches down the line.
Prevent expensive breakdowns
Maintaining your air conditioning unit regularly limits the chances of it breaking down, which could end up costing you a small fortune.
Simple servicing by a skilled engineer to check that everything is working at its best could prevent a costly breakdown.
Air quality
Over time, air filters and internal components can become clogged with dust, pollen, and other airborne particles.
If left unchecked, this buildup can circulate allergens and pollutants throughout your space, affecting the health and comfort of everyone inside.
Environmental impact
A well-maintained system uses energy more efficiently, reducing unnecessary power consumption and lowering your carbon footprint.
Efficiency of the air conditioner
Regular maintenance keeps your air conditioner running at peak efficiency. This means it can cool your space more effectively while using less energy, which translates to lower utility bills and a longer lifespan for your system.
How often should you service your air conditioning units?
For most homes, air conditioning units should be serviced at least once a year to maintain efficiency, air quality, and prevent breakdowns that lead to costly repairs.
Commercial or systems with high usage would benefit from twice-yearly servicing due to the likelihood of greater wear and tear.
Depending on the type of boiler, manufacturers may even require annual maintenance by a qualified technician for the guarantee to remain valid.
How long does air conditioning service take
Typically, an air conditioning service usually takes between 45 minutes and 2 hours. Some factors can alter this, including the type of unit you have, its condition, and whether the engineer finds any issues.
For a standard home system that’s in good working order, expect it to be around an hour. This gives the specialist time to take a look, clean where it needs to be, and also inspect the air filters.
For larger commercial systems, they will likely take longer as the technician has more to inspect, clean and test.
When should I get my air conditioning serviced?
The best time for routine servicing is in the spring, before the system is needed most.
In some cases, the size of your system or the amount of refrigerant it holds can affect how often maintenance is required, particularly in larger or commercial setups.
However, you should also arrange a service if you notice warning signs. That could include things such as:
Unusual or loud noises
If your unit is making grinding, banging, or rattling noises, that could be a signal of loose components or other mechanical problems, which a technician should check to prevent further damage.
Aircon smells damp or musty
Damp, musty, or generally funky smells coming from your air conditioning unit can be a sign of mould or bacteria that have built up inside the system, which can be a health risk and should be addressed immediately.
Your aircon isn’t cooling like it used to
If your AC is running but struggling to cool the room as effectively as it used to, or if airflow feels weak, this can indicate low refrigerant, a failing compressor, or a blockage in the system. These issues can worsen quickly and may lead to a complete breakdown if ignored.
A final thought
Regular air conditioning servicing is a simple step that pays off in comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind.
By staying forward-thinking, you’ll keep your system running smoothly, avoid unexpected breakdowns, and enjoy cleaner, healthier air year-round.
