Air conditioning maintenance before summer
A unit that is checked before the hot season performs better and warns you of problems while there is still time to repair them. This guide summarises what you can check yourself and what is best left to a professional.
What you can do yourself
- Clean the indoor unit filters with the unit switched off: lukewarm water and let them dry completely before refitting.
- Check that the outdoor unit is free of leaves, objects and dirt, and that air can flow around it.
- Make sure the drain is not dripping and there are no water marks below the indoor unit.
- Run it for a few minutes in cooling and heating mode and listen for unusual noises, smells or vibrations.
What a professional checks
A full service covers the coils of the indoor and outdoor units, the drain, the electrical connections and the general operation of the unit. Checking the refrigerant circuit requires F-gas (refrigerant handling) certification.
When to do it
The usual approach is to service the unit before the hot weather starts, so a fault does not show up during a heatwave. An annual check is common practice, even more so if the unit is used a lot or has not been serviced for a while.
Signs you should not wait
- The unit does not cool, or cools poorly.
- It leaks water indoors.
- It makes new noises or smells bad.
- The circuit breaker trips when you switch it on.
When to call a professional
- If you notice any of the signs above.
- If the unit has gone more than a year without servicing.
- If it will be used heavily this season (second home, business, holiday rental).
Send us a photo and your area on WhatsApp: we will advise you and give you a quote. We reply within 2 hours during working hours (Monday to Saturday, 8:00 to 19:00, excluding public holidays).
Frequently asked questions
How often should the filters be cleaned?
It depends on use. With heavy use, every month or two is a common reference.
Can I top up the gas myself?
No. Refrigerant requires certification to handle and, if gas is missing, there is usually a leak that has to be found and repaired, not just topped up.
How do I book a service?
Message us on WhatsApp with a photo of the unit and your area.