Do Air Conditioners Need Servicing?
- Feb 11, 2021
- Buying Guides
If you’re a native Aussie or you’ve lived down under for a while, you’ll know how scorching summer in Australia can be. While most of the world is whacking the heating on, you’ll be turning to your air conditioner to save the day!
For this reason, your home air-con system must be working perfectly. You may not realise, but your AC unit should have regular servicing to keep it in tip-top condition.
In this blog, you’ll find lots of useful information and tips about maintaining air conditioners. But first, let’s look at how often they should be serviced.
How often does an air conditioning system need servicing?
Many air conditioning experts recommend you have yours serviced at least once a year. Follow the maintenance schedule for your model; usage, dust and operating conditions may call for more frequent attention.
It’s advisable to book your annual service around the same time every year so you know when it was last done.
Another tip is to plan your air conditioning service a couple of months before the hot weather usually makes an appearance. This ensures you’re not left without it during sweltering temperatures.
Signs that your air conditioner needs a service
You want your AC unit to be in full working order, but how do you know if it requires some TLC? These are a few warning signs to look out for:
- Blowing out warm air instead of cool air
- Reduced efficiency and poor airflow
- Leaks
- Unpleasant odours
- Inability to keep moisture levels low
- Will not turn on
- Will not turn off
- Is freezing up
- Making loud buzzing noises
While you may be tempted to perform DIY repairs, it’s best to contact a professional. An air conditioning unit is a complex system and any DIY attempts could end in disaster! Our qualified technicians will have your system up and running again in no time.
How do I service my air conditioner?
Do it yourself
Something many home air conditioning owners ask is whether they should attempt DIY servicing or not? When it comes to actually servicing your air conditioner, always enlist the help of a qualified technician.
Carry out only the user maintenance described in your model’s manual. Switch the system off and follow its power-isolation instructions before cleaning accessible filters or wiping the housing. Washable and disposable filters need different care.
Routine filter care supports airflow, but does not replace professional inspections or the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
However, deep cleaning the unit may not be easy to do on your own, so it’s always better to contact a professional team!
Hire a professional
If your air conditioner needs more than just routine maintenance, make sure you call an expert technician. A specially trained expert will be able to diagnose the issue with your air conditioner and find a solution.
They should check for things such as:
- The airflow through the evaporator coil
- Any duct leakages in the central systems
- That the thermostat is accurate
- The cooling system and heating system aren’t working simultaneously
- Collect any refrigerant that needs to be taken out of the system, rather than releasing it into the environment, which is illegal.
Remember, your air conditioner is an intricate machine and anything other than general cleaning or maintenance should only be carried out by a professional!
Air conditioner parts that need to be maintained
Filters
The filter is one of the most essential parts of your air conditioner unit. Regular maintenance is essential for it to work effectively and efficiently.
A dirty, clogged filter will block the airflow and prevent the unit from functioning correctly. If the airflow is restricted, any air that passes through the filter may carry grime, dirt and other nasties into the coils and impair them.
Clean reusable filters or replace disposable filters as specified in the manual. See Daikin’s filter-cleaning guidance for an example; follow the instructions for your own model.
Coils
The evaporator coil and the condenser coil can both accumulate dirt after months of use. Clean filters make sure the evaporator coil doesn’t become dirty too quickly. However, over time the coil will soil anyway.
Dirt on coils can restrict airflow and heat transfer. Have a qualified technician assess and clean internal coils as needed; do not dismantle the unit or spray its electrical components.
Fins
The evaporator and condenser coils have aluminium fins. These fins can be bent easily and in turn, block the airflow through the coils.
If fins appear damaged, ask a technician to assess them. Avoid inserting tools into the unit or trying to straighten fins yourself.
Drains
A blocked condensate drain can cause water to back up and leak. If water is leaking indoors, stop using the system and arrange an inspection rather than inserting wire or chemicals into the drain.
Prompt attention to leaks can help prevent water damage to walls, ceilings and flooring.
Air conditioner FAQs
What happens if AC is not serviced?
Once you’ve had your air conditioner unit installed, it can be tempting to just leave it to its own devices and not bother servicing it. However, like other technical gadgets, an air-con system also needs regular upkeep.
If you don’t, it could result in costly repair bills or worse, the air conditioner will break down completely. The last thing you want is summer in Australia without a functioning air conditioning system!
Do central air conditioners need to be serviced?
Yes! If you want to have a fully functioning air conditioner and save money on repair bills, servicing your unit is essential.
Dirty air filters, poor energy efficiency and low air quality are just a few things that can happen if it isn’t serviced regularly.
Follow your model’s manual for winter operation and care. Routine winter maintenance does not require removing a fixed split or ducted system. Keep outdoor airflow paths clear. Do not cover a unit while it is operating. Daikin explains why outdoor-unit clearance matters; seek model-specific advice before adding any enclosure.
Get a free quote on air conditioning servicing in Brisbane
Just like your car, your air conditioner needs regular maintenance to perform at its best. Servicing helps prevent breakdowns, improves efficiency, and extends the lifespan of your unit. Our professional AC service includes inspecting and cleaning critical components, checking refrigerant levels, and testing performance. Contact us today for a free quote on air conditioning servicing in Brisbane.
