How You Know You Need an Aircon Service
Do you remember the last time you had an aircon service? If you don’t, then it’s probably been too long. Sure, your air conditioner might still be up to the task of providing optimal year-round heating and cooling.
But the longer your unit goes without being serviced, the closer the time will come when it stops performing to its expected standard. Knowing when you need an aircon service will help you to prolong the lifespan and energy efficiency of your system. So, what are the telltale signs to look out for? Let’s take a look at six of them.
1. Your Air Conditioning System is Only Blowing Warm Air
Imagine this. You’ve just made yourself comfortable on the couch in the middle of a scorching hot summer’s day. You grab the remote for your split system air conditioner to try and cool the room. Except the air conditioner only seems capable of blowing warm or even hot air – the absolute last thing you want.
Sure, there will be different factors that can affect the performance of your air conditioning system on any given day, including the temperature outdoors. But when it doesn’t even seem capable of blowing air that will effectively cool the room, it’s definitely time for an aircon service.
2. Your Air Conditioner is Making Strange Noises
Quiet operation with little to no noise is a basic minimum requirement that most, if not all of us, expect from our air conditioning unit. It should always just remain in the background; seen and felt, but definitely not heard.
So, if you begin to hear noises that air conditioners just shouldn’t make, like squealing or scraping sounds, it may indicate that there are parts or components that have come loose or are damaged. Should you hear any strange or unfamiliar noises coming from your air conditioning unit, switch it off and book an aircon service with a licensed air conditioner technician.
3. Your Air Conditioner is Producing Unpleasant Smells
Just as your air conditioning unit should be seen, felt and not heard, it should also not be smelt. Whether you have a split system or ducted air conditioning, the air it blows out should always be fresh, clean and odourless.
Unusual smells could potentially indicate a number of problems, including the presence of mould or mildew in the air filters, or a burnt-out wire somewhere inside the unit. An aircon service by a licensed professional will be able to determine the source of the smell and take the necessary course of action to fix it.
4. Your AC Airflow is Below Standard
If your ducted AC unit is delivering substandard airflow, and you’re not getting the reliable service you’ve come to expect from it, you may be dealing with a clogged air filter. Air conditioning filters need periodic cleaning to maintain their top performance. Clogged filters need to work harder to maintain their heating and cooling functions with some degree of efficiency.
If they become too congested, though, it can restrict the level of airflow. A thorough air conditioning service will usually involve cleaning or, if necessary, a replacement of your aircon filters. They will then be able to continue providing the quality service and unrestricted airflow that you expect.
5. Your Air Con Starts Leaking
Air conditioning systems typically should not leak. You might occasionally see some condensation form on the surface of the indoor unit of your split system aircon.
However, if there are any signs of significant moisture leaking from the air conditioner, it could indicate a blockage in the drain tube or leak of Freon (the air conditioning refrigerant), which can be hazardous. No matter what the cause of the leak, it’s worth the call to a licensed professional for an aircon service.
6. You’re Suddenly Getting Higher Than Usual Energy Bills
Whether you have evaporative cooling or are running reverse cycle air conditioning throughout your home, you likely have your usual usage habits to provide year-round comfort. Your bills would likely match the consistency of your usage habits as well.
However, if your bills begin to suddenly show a significant spike that doesn’t reflect how you typically use your ducted or split system air conditioning, it may indicate a problem that requires a comprehensive air conditioning service. Experienced and accredited repair specialists will be able to diagnose and repair the problem with a thorough aircon service, so it can keep delivering the great service you’ve become accustomed to.
Why Scheduled Air Conditioning Services are So Important
The benefits of scheduling periodic air conditioning services are clear. Whether you have split systems installed in various rooms of the house or ducted air conditioning throughout the entire home, air conditioners need occasional maintenance and repairs to prolong their lifespan. Servicing helps to detect and fix faults, and make your system as efficient as possible.
Of course, an aircon service might uncover a problem that is beyond repair. You may find you need a new air conditioning system installed. Should you require a new unit that is just as efficient providing heat in winter as it is cooling throughout summer, your aircon service specialist will be able to assist.
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.