The Australian climate can get unforgiving, with the sun shining in all its glory and draining our energy to the max. As a result, we turn to the sleek boxes complementing the walls that we call air conditioners to combat the heat and stay cool throughout the summer months. In a nutshell, air conditioners have drastically changed our lives, and today, living without these pieces of heaven is unimaginable. But, after all, an air conditioner is an equipment, and it would be a disaster if we did not have an optimally-functioning air conditioner in our homes and offices. Imagine the worst-case scenario – you come home from hot outdoors after a tiring day at work and realize the air conditioner has broken down. That is why you should pay attention to the telltale signs that prevent optimal performance. While bi-annual servicing is mandatory, getting routine fixes helps prevent a major breakdown.
If you are confused about how to determine if your air conditioner needs servicing, read this blog post to know all about it. It’s going to be long but quite an informational piece, so keep reading.
Table of Contents
Signs that your AC needs servicing
- Reduced cooling efficiency
Air conditioners not providing efficient cooling or taking longer than usual to do so is one of the most common signs that your air conditioner needs servicing. Several reasons contribute to the problem, such as clogged air filters, refrigerant leakage or a malfunctioning thermostat. Delaying an HVAC service to fix the issue could lead to a spike in electricity bills because the air conditioning system consumes more electricity to compensate and cool the space.
- Strange noises from the AC
Strange noises from your air conditioner indicate that it needs a little love and care. A faulty compressor, loose fan blade or a damaged condenser coil are the common reasons your AC makes strange noises. While minor noises indicate a loose component or buildup of dirt and debris that needs fixing, strange noises, such as grinding, squeaking and grating, indicate a more serious issue that requires immediate assistance from a professional HVAC technician.
- Bad odors from the AC
There should be no smell coming out of your air conditioning system. However, a strange odour coming out of the system indicates a problem that needs immediate fixing. A whiff of a foul odour signifies a drainage issue, while a burning smell could mean insulation damage. Clogged air filters, mildew growth and faulty electrical components also cause weird odours. Therefore, as soon as you catch something odd, call a technician right away.
- Increase in electricity bills
An air conditioning system consumes more electricity than usual to function. However, a sudden spike in electricity bills indicates a problem with your air conditioning system. It is always wise to factor in other electrical appliances, but if all roads lead you to your AC system, call in a technician.
The importance of regular AC servicing
- Prolonging the lifespan of the AC
Air conditioners are an investment, and investing in such expensive machines is pointless if you do not opt for preventive care. Regular HVAC servicing extends the lifespan of your air conditioning system and ensures that it works in a top-notch condition.
- Improved energy efficiency
An air conditioning system without regular servicing consumes more electricity and costs you even higher than the initial outlay. Servicing keeps every component in top condition and allows the system to perform optimally, without consuming more energy.
- Prevention of costly repairs
A well-serviced AC system is less likely to have an expensive breakdown, which means you can prevent costly repairs with a maintained system. Regular servicing allows technicians to address problems in their early stages and provide fixes right there and then, preventing them from causing a major hindrance in future that can strain your pockets.
- Better air quality
Regular servicing comprises duct, air filter and blade cleaning that resultantly removes contaminants and accumulated dust and dirt. During a service, a technician may also fix a problem that is contributing to bad indoor air quality, such as mould growth. It leads to better air quality and circulation of fresh air in the room.
How Often Should You Service Your AC
While it is best to opt for your technician’s recommendation on the frequency of AC servicing, there are a few factors that may help you out.
A. Factors to consider
The frequency of AC servicing depends on several factors, such as the frequency of usage, the age of the AC system and the regional climate. However, it is best to opt for service at least once a year before the peak season begins so that it functions efficiently.
B. Recommended service intervals
It is suggested to get the service for the system once every year. However, to ensure that it functions in top working order, it is best to get it done twice a year: in the fall and spring. It is only to ensure that every component is clean and functioning optimally.
DIY AC Maintenance Tips
Before exploring do-it-yourself tips for AC maintenance, note that they are not a substitute for professional help.
· Unplug the unit from the circuit breaker before starting the cleaning process
· Remove the air filters and clean the dirt and debris by either vacuuming or washing them with soapy water
· Clean the condenser coils on the outdoor unit using a soft brush. You may also use a dedicated coil cleaner if need be
· Access the evaporator coils on the indoor unit and use a soft brush to clean all the dirt, dust and debris
· Check the drain that is on the indoor unit of the system and clean it using a vacuum if clogged
Choosing the Right AC Servicing Company
A. Factors to consider
1. Experience and expertise
Remember that your air conditioning system is a hefty investment, and you don’t want amateur hands to do fixes. Ask questions to the company you are considering about their experience and expertise. It will give you confidence that you are in for a reliable service that has the technical knowledge to provide top-notch solutions.
2. Certification and licensing
Always hire a certified and licensed HVAC service provider to ensure that you get trained and qualified technicians to work on your AC system.
3. Reputation and reviews
The digital era calls for a review of what customers say online about a company. It is rightfully said that history repeats itself, and what customers write speaks volumes about a company’s customer service and reliability. Take time to read how customer experiences have been and gauge customer satisfaction levels to gain full confidence.
B. Questions to ask before hiring an AC servicing company
1. Do they offer emergency services?Ask if the company offers emergency services, and if they do, how long it takes to respond to urgent queries.
2. What is their pricing model?Ask about the company’s pricing model and clearly question if it charges hidden fees or additional charges.
3. Do they provide a warranty for their services?Ask if the company’s service or spare parts come with any warranty.
Conclusion
We have reached the end of our informational blog post. In a nutshell, we get how important regular AC servicing is, and unmaintained systems are only additional expenses and a source of discomfort for us. Opt for regular servicing to extend the lifespan of your AC system, reduce energy costs and prevent future breakdowns that lead to additional costly repairs. Call a technician if you sense anything wrong with the system, or maintain it at home if the issue calls for a simple maintenance job.
