Top Tips to Maintain Your Air Conditioning System

Are you wanting to keep cool in the summer heat and keep warm during the winter months? If you are, it is time to understand the importance of aircon maintenance! Australia can experience some extreme weather conditions, with summers reaching steamy temperatures and the nights becoming brisk in winter, depending on which state you are in. With extreme temperatures, it is essential to ensure that your air conditioning system is operating at optimum efficiency, to ensure it is providing you with the best results possible. If you are wanting to make the most of your air conditioning system all year round, let’s understand more about the importance of air conditioner maintenance!

There are many advantages and disadvantages to maintaining your AC system, such as detecting potential faults or issues early before they worsen, which will ensure your air conditioning is working effectively and will prolong the longevity of your air conditioning system. 

 Regularly Check Your Thermostat 

It is important to check and inspect your air conditioning and thermostat at regular intervals to ensure it is cooling properly. A great way to check if it is working properly is to assess the temperature of the air coming out of the is around the same temperature as the air going back into the return air vent. 

If you notice a variation in the temperatures, this may demonstrate that you are experiencing a clogged air filter or that your air conditioner is low on refrigerant. If this is the case, you may be using a large amount of energy for an air conditioner system that is not providing you with the results you are looking for. You may wish to reach out to reputable air conditioning technicians, who will be able to service your air conditioner system to ensure all issues are promptly fixed, and your air conditioner will continue to run efficiently.

         Change Your Air Filter Regularly

The air filter is an integral component of your system, so it must be cleaned and changed regularly to preserve the effectiveness of your air conditioning. Over time, your air filter may begin to experience a build-up of dust, dirt, and debris, which will lead to issues with the performance of your air conditioning system. 

It is recommended that your air filter should be cleaned every couple of weeks and changed/replaced every month to every three months. The frequency of when you replace your air filter will depend on a multitude of factors, such as how often and to what extent you use your AC systems, the extent of dust you have circulating in your space and the minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) of your air filters. Essentially, the higher the MERV value, the longer you will be able to see the results as the filtering capabilities are higher. 

It is recommended to change your air filter with the seasons where you will be using your air conditioning system the most, such as winter and summer, to ensure you are getting the most use and performance out of your new air filter. Changing your air filter is an integral component of air conditioner maintenance to ensure it is working to the best of its ability and showcasing the best results.

           Check Your Wiring and Components 

Checking the wiring and components of your air conditioning is important, although it is recommended that your air conditioning technician performs these duties, which can be implemented during your regular air conditioning servicing and maintenance sessions. 

It is important to ensure you turn off the power and the machine before you begin checking the wiring of your system. If your air conditioner system has blackening of the wires or they appear to be burnt, or there are signs of melted insulation, it is important to reach out to your air conditioner technician as soon as possible so they can carry out professional air conditioner maintenance. 

Check and Clean The Exterior Of Your Air Conditioning Unit 

Checking and cleaning the exterior of your air conditioning unit is an effective way to ensure it is working to the best of its ability in between professional maintenance and services. The condenser can be susceptible to getting clogged with a variety of external factors such as debris, dirt, and grass, which may end up blocking the airflow which will cause your air conditioning system to use more energy to provide results. 

If you notice this build-up, it is important to clean this off at least once per year to keep up the performance of your air conditioning system. A gentle pressure hose will be suitable for removing this build-up, although it is important to make sure the system is properly turned off before using water on its exterior. 

       Inspect Your Condenser Fan 

Once you turn the power off, you may wish to inspect your condenser fan, which is found on the top of the outdoor condenser unit. You may want to look out for general signs of damage or wear and tear alongside any possible cracks or chips in the fan blades, which will indicate that it is time to replace your condenser fan. 

There are several other factors to look out for when checking your condenser fan, which may include whether the fan is turning slower than usual, if the fan stops working when the AC is turned on and if there are any rattling noises coming from the condenser when the AC is turned on. 

                Schedule Maintenance With A Professional 

Scheduling regular maintenance checks with a professional will ensure that your air conditioning system is working to the best of its ability, along with the techniques you use in between checks. 

Aircon maintenance is essential for the longevity and reliability of your air conditioning system, especially during the warmest and coolest months of the year here in Australia. Regular air conditioning maintenance will ensure that any issues, such as the build-up of bacteria and dust present within your system, are attended to. Over time, if these build-ups are left, your air conditioning system will have to work harder and use more energy to perform its functions which may eventually lead to more issues and faults within your system. 

When pollutants begin to build up, your air conditioning system may begin to struggle to filter out harmful properties, which can lead to lessened air quality which can become an issue for people who deal with asthma, allergies or similar medical conditions. 

The Importance of Air Conditioner Maintenance 

Carrying out general air conditioner maintenance techniques at home is a great way to continue the longevity and reliability of your air conditioner throughout the year. With this being said, it is beneficial to schedule air conditioning maintenance through a professional to ensure any potential issues are picked up on as soon as possible and to ensure they are able to carry out maintenance techniques you may not be able to at home.