How to maintain your Air condition Year-round 

Why Air Condition Maintenance is Important

Regular maintenance of your air conditioner (AC) provides several benefits:

• Improved Efficiency: A well-maintained AC runs more efficiently, cooling your home faster and using less energy.
• Lower Energy Bills: Regular maintenance helps your unit operate at peak performance, saving you money on electricity bills.
• Extended Lifespan: Proper maintenance can extend the life of your air conditioner, avoiding costly repairs or early replacements.
• Cleaner Air: Regular maintenance helps prevent the build-up of dust, mould, and allergens, ensuring the air you breathe is clean and healthy.

Seasonal AC Maintenance: A month-by-month Breakdown

Summer (Peak Season)

During the summer, your air conditioner is working hard to keep your home cool, so it is essential to ensure it is in good working order.

• Clean or Replace the Filters: Dirty filters can cause your air conditioner to work harder and less efficiently. During the summer season, aim to clean or replace the filters every month. 
• Check the Thermostat: Ensure your thermostat is functioning correctly. If your air conditioner isn’t cooling as expected, the thermostat could be the culprit.
• Inspect the Coils: Check the evaporator and condenser coils for dirt and debris. Dirty coils will make your unit work harder, potentially causing it to overheat. You can clean them gently with a soft brush or have a professional clean them.
• Ensure Proper Insulation: Check for any gaps in the insulation around your AC’s ductwork. If you notice any, seal them up to prevent cool air from escaping and improve efficiency.

Autumn (Preparation for Winter)

Autumn is a good time to get your air conditioner ready for the cooler months, even if you’re not using it as often.

• Clean the Exterior Unit: As autumn brings falling leaves, ensure the exterior unit (condenser) is debris-free. Leaves, twigs, and dirt can block airflow and reduce efficiency.
• Turn Off the Power: If you don’t use your air conditioner much in the colder months, consider turning off the power at the circuit breaker to prevent unnecessary energy consumption.
• Check for Leaks: Inspect the ductwork for leaks and seal any gaps. Properly sealed ducts ensure your system doesn’t lose cool or warm air.

Winter (Off-Season Care)

While you may not be using your air conditioner much during the winter months, it’s still essential to keep it well-maintained.

• Cover the Outdoor Unit: If your air conditioner’s outdoor unit is exposed to the elements, cover it with a breathable cover to protect it from rain, snow, or debris. Make sure the cover doesn’t restrict airflow.
• Run the System Occasionally: Even if you don’t need cooling, it’s a good idea to run your air conditioner for 10–15 minutes every month to keep the components lubricated and ensure it’s in working condition.
• Check the Condensate Drain: The condensate drain allows moisture to flow out of the unit. Make sure it’s clear of any blockages. If it’s clogged, water could back up and damage your system.

Spring (Prepping for the Warmer Months)

Before the hot Australian summer hits, spring is the ideal time to prepare your air conditioner for intensive use.

• Change the Filters: Just like in summer, replace or clean the filters to improve airflow and quality.
• Clear the Area Around the Outdoor Unit: Trim back any plants or shrubs around the outdoor unit to ensure there is at least a 30cm gap for proper airflow.
• Check the Refrigerant Levels: Low refrigerant levels can cause your air conditioner to malfunction. If you suspect your refrigerant is low, it’s best to call a professional for a top-up.
• Test the Cooling Function: Turn on your air conditioner to test its cooling capabilities. If it’s not cooling as expected, you may need to call a technician to inspect the system for issues.

Additional Tips for Maintaining your air conditioner-year-round

1. Regular Professional Servicing 

While homeowners can perform some tasks, it is recommended that they have their air conditioners professionally serviced at least once a year. A qualified technician can check the refrigerant levels, clean the coils, inspect the ducts, and check the overall system for potential issues.

2. Consider a Smart Thermostat 

A smart thermostat can improve energy efficiency by allowing you to control your home’s temperature from your phone. Many smart thermostats also have energy-saving features that can reduce your cooling costs during the summer.

3. Avoid Blocking Vents 

Ensure that furniture, curtains, or other obstructions don’t block the vents or airflow of your air conditioner. Proper airflow is essential for maintaining cooling efficiency.

4. Clean the Air Ducts 

Over time, dust and debris can build up inside the air ducts, affecting air quality and cooling efficiency. Having your ducts cleaned professionally every few years can help keep your system running efficiently.

5. Be Mindful of Temperature Settings 

Keeping your air conditioner at a low temperature can unnecessarily strain the system. It’s best to set the thermostat to a moderate temperature (around 24°C) and use fans to circulate the air.

Conclusion 

Maintaining your air conditioner year-round doesn’t have to be complicated. Following a simple maintenance routine ensures your unit runs efficiently and reliably when the hot Australian summer arrives. Regular care will improve your air conditioner’s performance, save you money on energy bills, reduce the need for expensive repairs, and extend its lifespan.

Calling a qualified technician is always a good idea if you’re unsure about maintenance tasks or want a professional to check your system. With the proper care, your air conditioner will be ready to keep you cool and comfortable every season.