Is It Important to Have My Split System Air Conditioner Regularly Serviced?

Why Regular Servicing Is Important for Your Split System Air Conditioner.

A well-maintained split system air conditioner offers many benefits, including improved performance, better energy efficiency, and enhanced indoor air quality.

Here are the main reasons why regular servicing is crucial:

1. Ensures Optimal Performance

Over time, dust, dirt, and debris accumulate within the system, especially on the filters, coils, and fans. This buildup can reduce the efficiency of the air conditioner, forcing it to work harder to cool your space. Regular servicing ensures that these components are cleaned, allowing the unit to perform at its peak.

2. Improves Energy Efficiency and Reduces Costs

When your split system is clean and in good working order, it consumes less energy to maintain the desired temperature. A clogged or dirty unit, however, draws more electricity, leading to higher energy bills. According to experts, a well-serviced air conditioner can reduce energy consumption by up to 15-20%.

3. Extends the Lifespan of the Unit

Just like any other appliance, regular maintenance helps prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner. Without servicing, small issues such as clogged filters, refrigerant leaks, or faulty components can escalate into major problems, potentially leading to costly repairs or the premature failure of the unit.

4. Prevents Costly Repairs

Many breakdowns are preventable with regular maintenance. Technicians can identify and address issues such as refrigerant leaks, faulty electrical connections, or worn-out parts before they lead to expensive repairs. Preventive care saves money and ensures uninterrupted cooling during summer.

5. Maintains Indoor Air Quality

A poorly maintained air conditioner can circulate dust, pollen, mould spores, and other allergens throughout your home. This can affect indoor air quality and may cause respiratory problems, especially for individuals with asthma or allergies. Regular cleaning of filters and coils ensures that the air circulated is fresh, healthy, and free from pollutants.

6. Preserves Manufacturer’s Warranty

Many air conditioner manufacturers require proof of regular servicing to honor the warranty. Neglecting maintenance can void the warranty, meaning you might be responsible for repair costs that would otherwise be covered.

What Happens During a Split System Air Conditioner Service?

During a routine service, an experienced technician performs several checks and maintenance tasks to ensure the system is in top condition.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Cleaning the Filters: Filters trap dust, dirt, and airborne particles. A clogged filter can restrict airflow, reducing efficiency. Our technicians clean or replace filters as needed.
• Inspecting and Cleaning Coils: Both the evaporator and condenser coils can accumulate dust over time. Dirty coils reduce the system’s ability to cool efficiently, so they need to be cleaned regularly.
• Checking the Refrigerant Levels: Low refrigerant levels can indicate leaks, which can impair the cooling function. Our technician will check for leaks and refill the refrigerant if necessary.
• Testing the Thermostat: The thermostat is checked to ensure it accurately measures the room temperature and responds correctly to changes.
• Inspecting Electrical Connections: Loose or faulty electrical connections can cause malfunctions or pose safety hazards. Our technicians inspect wiring and connections to prevent issues.
• Examining the Condensate Drain: The condensate drain is checked and cleared of any blockages to prevent water from backing up into the system.
• Lubricating Moving Parts: Fans and other moving components are lubricated to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation.
• Running a System Test: The air conditioner is tested to confirm that all components are working correctly and efficiently.

What Happens If You Don’t Service Your Air Conditioner?

Skipping regular maintenance can lead to several issues over time.

Here are some risks of neglecting to service your split system air conditioner:

1. Reduced Cooling Efficiency

Without regular cleaning, dirt and debris accumulate in the system, restricting airflow and making it harder for the unit to cool your space effectively. As a result, the system has to run longer, consuming more energy.

2. Increased Energy Bills

An inefficient air conditioner uses more electricity to maintain the desired temperature. You may notice a spike in your energy bills if your unit isn’t serviced regularly.

3. Potential Breakdowns and Costly Repairs

Small problems, such as blocked filters or minor refrigerant leaks, can worsen if left unchecked. Eventually, these issues can cause significant breakdowns, requiring expensive repairs or even the replacement of the entire unit.

4. Poor Air Quality

A neglected air conditioner can become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria, circulating polluted air throughout your home. This can cause respiratory problems and worsen allergies for occupants.

5. Shortened Lifespan

Air conditioners that are not regularly serviced are more likely to develop faults and wear out prematurely. Investing in maintenance extends the life of the unit, saving you the cost of an early replacement.

How Often Should You Service Your Split System Air Conditioner?

The frequency of servicing depends on several factors, such as how often you use the air conditioner, the environment it operates in, and the manufacturer’s recommendations.

However, as a general rule of thumb, it’s best to have your split system serviced at least once a year.

Here are some more specific guidelines:

1. Annual Service Before Summer

Most experts recommend scheduling a service before the start of summer. This ensures that your air conditioner is in peak condition for the months when you’ll need it most. It’s also a good time to catch any issues that could lead to breakdowns during hot weather.

2. More Frequent Service for Heavy Use

If you use your air conditioner year-round or live in a hot and humid climate, consider servicing it twice a year—once before summer and again midway through the season. This ensures the system stays clean and performs efficiently throughout the year.

3. Monthly Filter Cleaning for High-Dust Environments

If your home is in a dusty area or near construction zones, the filters may need more frequent cleaning. You can clean the filters yourself every 4-6 weeks to ensure optimal airflow between professional services.

4. Service for Commercial Air Conditioners

Split systems in commercial spaces often run for longer periods and are subject to heavier use. For these units, servicing every 3-6 months is recommended to prevent breakdowns and ensure a comfortable environment for employees and customers.

Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Immediate Servicing

While it’s important to follow a regular maintenance schedule, certain signs indicate that your air conditioner may need immediate attention.

Contact one of our technicians if you notice any of the following:

• Weak airflow or no cool air
• Unusual noises such as rattling or buzzing
• Foul odours coming from the vents
• Higher-than-usual energy bills
• Water leakage around the indoor unit
• The system turns on and off frequently (short cycling)

Regular servicing of your split system air conditioner is essential for maintaining its performance, efficiency, and lifespan.

It helps reduce energy costs, prevents expensive repairs, and ensures better indoor air quality.

Whether you use your air conditioner seasonally or year-round, scheduling a professional service at least once a year—preferably before summer—will keep your unit in top condition. In environments with heavy use or dust, more frequent servicing may be required.

By staying proactive with maintenance, you’ll enjoy reliable, efficient cooling when you need it most, and avoid the inconvenience of unexpected breakdowns.