When was the last time you serviced your air con? If you don’t know, then now is the time!

Winter and Spring are the best times to have your unit professionally serviced. No one wants to turn their air con back on after being off all winter, only to find it’s not working, on a hot humid day. The best way to keep your unit running well and extend its lifetime is by regularly maintaining it. Besides professionally servicing it, there are a few things you can do at yourself, to keep it in peak performance.

How to Maintain Your Air Conditioner.

Before you start anything, it is always best to consult your manufacturer’s manual. Each manufacturer will be different, and it is best to make sure you aren’t doing anything that will void the warranty or is unsafe.  If you don’t have the manual anymore, visit the company website and see if you can download a copy. Always make sure your unit is switched off before you do attempt to clean it.

Most units will have a few jobs you can do yourself to keep it running smoothly. You can remove and clean the filters, wipe the louvers and outside of the unit and keep the outside compressor clean of debris and dirt.

TIP – Run the dry out program after every use. This evaporates the moisture that’s condensed on the heat exchanger, preventing mould and foul odours. (source: choice.com.au)

Cleaning the Filters and Louvres.  

The filters inside are meant to catch dust and debris, these can get quite dirty fast, and a clogged filter will affect the efficiency of your unit.

To clean the filters, start by removing the front cover. This should come off easily with a firm tug. See your manual for the best directions for your unit. Take the filters out and give them a shake and a brush outside. You may also be able to vacuum them clean. For grimy filters, try washing them in warm water with mild detergent and don’t out them back in until they are fully dry.

This should be done a few times each year, although some manufacturers may recommend more. It also depends on how often you are using it. Try cleaning filters before and after the summer.

To clean the louvres, use a dry or damp cloth and carefully wipe each blade.

Cleaning the Outside Compressor Unit.

Regularly check for dirt, leaves, or fallen tree branches that may be covering the unit. After a heavy rain check for washed up dirt or flooding waters. Keep it free from plants and cobwebs.

When it’s time for the Professionals.

There are a few things though that you will need a professional for. These things include, (but are not limited to), cleaning the condenser coils, checking the gas levels, and checking the accuracy of the thermostat. It is not recommended you attempt these items, as this could breach your manufacturer’s warranty and could be unsafe.

Most manufacturers will recommend having your unit serviced once a year. By keeping your unit clean and regularly serviced you can save yourself time and money. Air cons always seem to break down when we need them the most, so try to book your services in during the cooler months when the demand for technicians is lower.

Your Air Conditioner Checklist:

• Weekly, run the dry out program and wipe unit clean of dust
• Monthly check outside condenser unit is free of debris.
• Bi-annually clean the filters by brushing, vacuuming or cleaning in warm soapy water.
• Annually, have your unit professionally serviced.

Keeping your air con unit maintained and professionally serviced regularly will help prevent minor issues from becoming major issues. It will keep the machine running at its best efficiency and can save you money.