The record high temperatures we’re seeing around the world right now are a reminder of how air conditioners have become an integral part of our lives in providing a comfortable and cool environment in our homes and offices.

Purchasing an air conditioner and using it to help regulate temperatures is one thing, but having it perform optimally is another. Like any other mechanical system, air conditioning units require regular servicing and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. After all, in times like these where the escalating costs of the “cost of living crisis” are affecting every aspect of our lives, you need to be aware that if your air conditioner is not operating optimally, your energy costs are going to sky rocket!

When to call a local air conditioning (AC) company

If you notice that your AC unit is struggling to keep up and not cooling the way it should be, or that the unit is making a lot of noise, or even that it is leaking water, these are all sure signs that it isn’t working properly and you need to call out one of our Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) engineers.

Don’t wait!

Don’t wait until your AC has broken down and you need to pay for repairs or replacements. Regular servicing of your air conditioning unit will keep it working optimally for longer. In fact, without proper maintenance, your air conditioner is more likely to continue to lose overall efficiency. According to Energy.gov, even something as small as replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%.

Timely maintenance

One critical aspect of air conditioning servicing is the detection and prevention of potential issues. During a regular maintenance visit, a professional HVAC technician carefully inspects the unit for any signs of wear and tear, leaks, or faulty components. Identifying these problems early allows for timely repairs, preventing major breakdowns and costly replacements in the future. It is much more cost-effective to address minor issues promptly like this, rather than waiting for them to develop into significant problems requiring extensive repairs.

Save energy and improve efficiency

One of the primary reasons to service your air conditioning unit is to enhance its efficiency. Over time, dust, dirt, and debris accumulate in the various components of the unit, including the filters, coils, and vents. These accumulations hinder the airflow, forcing the unit to work harder to cool the air. As a result, the system consumes more energy, leading to increased utility bills. Regular servicing and cleaning of these components help to restore the system’s efficiency, enabling it to cool the space effectively while consuming less energy.

Better air quality

Regular servicing of your air conditioning unit contributes to improved indoor air quality. The filters within the unit are responsible for trapping dust, allergens, and pollutants that enter the space so over time, as these filters become clogged with dirt and debris, it reduces their effectiveness. This not only compromises the air quality but can also exacerbate respiratory conditions, allergies, and asthma. Through regular servicing, the filters can be cleaned or replaced, ensuring the air circulated by the unit is fresh and free from pollutants, consequently promoting a healthier living environment.

Protect your HVAC investment

Servicing your air conditioning unit also extends its lifespan. Neglected or poorly maintained units are more prone to breakdowns and premature failure, so by having your unit serviced regularly, you not only ensure its optimal functioning, but you also help prevent costly replacements. Air conditioning units are a significant investment, and regular servicing helps protect that investment by prolonging the unit’s lifespan and delaying the need for a new one.

Cut down on costs

Air conditioners typically consume more power than other most mechanical units, but when not properly maintained, they draw even more power. That cost alone is why regular maintenance is needed as a way of minimising your unit’s energy consumption and keeping costs down.

Reduce hazards

Neglecting to service your air conditioning unit can have detrimental effects on your health and safety. As mentioned earlier, clogged filters compromise indoor air quality and negatively impact respiratory health. However, poorly maintained units can also pose a fire hazard. Dust and debris that accumulate within the unit can come into contact with electrical components, potentially leading to electrical shorts and fires. Regular servicing can minimise these risks and ensure the safe operation of the unit.

The bottom-line

Put simply, regular servicing should be considered an essential part of owning an air conditioning unit. This maintenance will not only help to maintain your AC efficiency and prolong your system’s lifespan, but with regular servicing you are investing in maintaining a more comfortable living/working environment that saves you money from lower energy bills and reduced repair costs in the long-term.