How often should air conditioners be serviced?

By South West Tech

Most air conditioners should be professionally serviced once every 12 months.

If your system runs every day, is located in a dusty environment, or is used in a commercial setting, servicing every six months can help keep it performing at its best.

Regular servicing improves efficiency, extends the life of the system and helps identify small problems before they become expensive repairs.

Can I Service My Air Conditioner Myself?

You can perform some basic maintenance yourself, and it's one of the best things you can do to keep your air conditioner running efficiently.

The indoor filters should be removed and cleaned every one to three months, depending on how often the system is used. Keeping the filters clean improves airflow, reduces strain on the system and helps maintain good indoor air quality. It's also worth occasionally removing leaves, grass and other debris from around the outdoor unit to ensure it has unrestricted airflow.

While this routine maintenance is simple, it isn't a replacement for a professional service.

What's Included in a Professional Air Conditioner Service?

A professional air conditioner service goes well beyond cleaning the filters.

The indoor unit is dismantled where required so the coils, fan barrel and internal components can be thoroughly cleaned to remove built-up dust, mould and bacteria that aren't accessible during normal maintenance. The outdoor unit is also cleaned and inspected, while electrical connections, drainage, refrigerant performance and overall system operation are checked to ensure everything is working safely and efficiently.

This type of deep clean not only improves performance but can also help eliminate unpleasant odours and extend the life of the air conditioner.

When Should You Book a Service?

If your air conditioner isn't cooling or heating as well as it used to, has developed unusual smells, is making unexpected noises or is leaking water, it's a good idea to book a professional service rather than waiting for the problem to worsen.

Even if the system appears to be working normally, an annual service is recommended to keep it operating efficiently and reduce the likelihood of breakdowns during the hottest and coldest times of the year.

For homes throughout rural Queensland, where air conditioners often work hard in hot, dusty conditions, South West Tech recommends cleaning your filters regularly and booking a professional air conditioner clean and service every 12 months. It's a simple way to improve efficiency, maintain healthy airflow and keep your system running reliably for years to come.