7 Essential Aircon Maintenance Tips

Maintaining your air conditioner is essential to keep it running efficiently, save on energy bills, and avoid unexpected breakdowns.

With just a bit of regular care, your aircon can keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long without straining your wallet or patience.

Neglecting maintenance, on the other hand, can lead to costly repairs, reduced cooling power, and even higher energy usage. Fortunately, air conditioner upkeep doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. In this blog, we’ll walk you through seven simple, effective tips to help keep your air conditioner in top shape.

From cleaning the filters to checking the thermostat, these easy maintenance tasks will ensure your aircon performs at its best, so you can stay cool without the hassle.

1. Clean or Replace Air Filters Regularly

Air conditioner filters are a small but essential part of your air conditioner. They trap dust, dirt, and other particles, keeping the air in your home cleaner and helping the AC run efficiently.

Over time, though, filters get clogged, which reduces airflow and forces your air conditioner to work harder to cool your space. Regularly cleaning or replacing your filters can make a noticeable difference in cooling performance, air quality, and even energy bills.

Most experts recommend checking your air filter once a month, especially during peak cooling seasons. If it looks dirty, replace it or, if it’s a reusable filter, give it a thorough clean.

Simply rinse reusable filters with water and allow them to dry completely before reinserting. This simple routine task helps your AC work at its best, provides cleaner air for your home, and prevents potential breakdowns due to restricted airflow.

By keeping your filters clean, you’ll enjoy more efficient cooling, lower energy costs, and a fresher indoor environment − all with minimal time and effort.

2. Check the Thermostat Settings

Your thermostat is the brain of your air conditioning system, and having it set correctly can make a big difference in comfort and energy savings.

To start, make sure the thermostat is set to “cool” and that the temperature is set a few degrees lower than the current room temperature. For even better control, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat, which automatically adjusts based on your schedule.

This can help you save energy by cooling only when needed − like turning off or increasing the temperature while you’re away and cooling down again just before you return.

Another helpful tip is to keep the thermostat away from heat-producing appliances or direct sunlight, as these can trick it into thinking the room is warmer than it actually is, causing the aircon to work harder than necessary.

A correctly set thermostat reduces strain on your air conditioner, keeps energy bills in check, and ensures you stay cool and comfortable without any fuss.

3. Inspect the Condenser and Evaporator Coils

Your air conditioner’s condenser and evaporator coils play a crucial role in cooling your home by absorbing and releasing heat.

Over time, though, these coils can accumulate dust, dirt and debris, which reduces their efficiency and forces your air conditioner to work harder. To keep your system running smoothly, it’s a good idea to inspect and clean these coils regularly.

For the condenser coils located in the outdoor unit, start by turning off the power and clearing away any leaves, grass, or dirt around the unit. You can use a gentle brush or a vacuum to carefully remove dirt from the coils.

Inside, the evaporator coils are usually located behind a panel; these can be more challenging to access, so cleaning them every few months or having them checked during a professional maintenance visit is ideal.

Keeping both sets of coils clean helps maintain efficient cooling and reduces strain on your system. This simple step can extend the life of your air conditioner while keeping energy costs down and your home comfortably cool.

4. Clear the Area Around the Outdoor Unit

Keeping the outdoor unit, or condenser, free of obstructions is key to ensuring your air conditioner runs efficiently. Here are a few easy steps to maintain a clear area around the unit:

• Trim back vegetation: Keep at least two feet of open space around the unit. Trim any nearby bushes, trees, or tall grass that could block airflow.
• Remove debris regularly: Clear away leaves, twigs, and grass clippings that may gather around or on top of the unit, especially after storms or windy days.
• Avoid stacking or storing nearby: Don’t place garden tools, furniture, or decorative items near the unit, as they can obstruct airflow and make the AC work harder.
• Check for seasonal changes: In the fall, leaves can pile up around the unit, while spring may bring pollen and grass clippings. Make clearing this area part of your regular yard maintenance.
• Inspect the unit itself: Look for any visible debris caught in or around the fins and gently remove it to ensure air can circulate freely.

By keeping the area clear, you’ll help your AC run more efficiently, reduce strain, and ensure reliable cooling throughout the season.

5. Check and Clean the Drain Line

Your air conditioner’s drain line is responsible for removing the moisture collected during the cooling process. Over time, this line can get clogged with dirt, mould or algae, leading to water build up that can cause leaks, water damage, and even mould growth around your unit.

Regularly checking and cleaning the drain line is a simple way to prevent these issues and keep your aircon running smoothly.

To clean the drain line, start by locating the pipe near the indoor cooling unit. Turn off the power, then use a small brush or gentle suction with a wet/dry vacuum to clear out any visible build up. For a deeper clean, you can flush the line with a solution of vinegar and water to kill mould or algae inside the pipe.

Keeping the drain line clear allows the air conditioner to remove humidity effectively, ensuring better cooling and preventing unwanted water damage. It’s a quick and easy task that can make a big difference in both the efficiency and longevity of your AC system.

6. Tighten Electrical Connections

Maintaining secure electrical connections in your air conditioner is crucial for both efficiency and safety. Loose connections can lead to system malfunctions, higher energy consumption, and even electrical hazards.

Here’s how you can keep your aircon’s electrical components in top shape:

• Turn off power first: Before inspecting any electrical parts, always turn off the power to the unit at the breaker to avoid electrical shocks or damage.
• Check for loose wires: Over time, wires can loosen due to vibrations from the unit running. Gently check for any visible wires that may be loose or disconnected.
• Inspect connection points: Carefully examine the terminals, screws, and connectors within the unit to ensure everything is tightly secured. If you find anything loose, use a screwdriver to tighten it.
• Look for signs of wear: While inspecting, keep an eye out for any signs of wear, such as frayed wires or discoloration, which may indicate overheating.
• Consult a professional if needed: For complex issues or if you’re uncertain, it’s best to call a professional technician. Handling electrical components requires care and expertise.

By checking and tightening electrical connections, you help your AC run more smoothly, reduce the risk of electrical issues, and enhance the overall lifespan of your system.

7. Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance

Having a professional inspect your air conditioner yearly is one of the best ways to ensure it stays in excellent working condition. Here’s what an annual maintenance check can do for your system:

• Thorough cleaning of components: Professionals clean parts you might miss, like coils, fans, and other internal components, which improves efficiency and airflow.
• Refrigerant level check: Technicians will check refrigerant levels and add more if needed. Low refrigerant can make your AC less effective and lead to costly repairs.
• Identify worn-out parts: A trained technician can spot worn or damaged parts that may not be obvious, replacing them before they cause bigger issues.
• Optimise performance: Professionals test and adjust your system to ensure it’s cooling efficiently, saving you money on energy bills over time.
• Improve safety and longevity: An annual check ensures that electrical connections and components are secure, reducing the risk of electrical hazards and prolonging your unit’s life.

By scheduling professional maintenance each year, you’re investing in a more reliable, efficient, and long-lasting air conditioner that will keep your home comfortable season after season.

Keep Your System Healthy

Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your air conditioner running smoothly, efficiently and safely. By following these seven simple tips, you’ll not only help your aircon cool your home more effectively but also extend its lifespan and save on energy costs.

From cleaning or replacing filters to clearing the outdoor unit and scheduling professional maintenance, each step adds up to a healthier, more reliable system. Skipping these tasks can lead to costly repairs, unexpected breakdowns, and less comfortable living spaces.

Taking a little time each season to care for your AC will make a big difference in how well it serves you during the warmer months. So, stay proactive with these maintenance tips and enjoy a comfortable, climate-controlled home in all seasons.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.