It’s hot season again in South Africa and time to dust up and switch on those air-conditioning systems, be it at home or in the office. OG Electrical Services, as always, is on standby to make sure that your aircon system is top notch and in good health.
Air conditioning units play a vital role in keeping our homes and workplaces comfortable, especially during the warmer months. However, like any other appliance, they require regular maintenance to function efficiently and reliably. Many people aren’t sure how often to service their air conditioning unit or what’s actually involved in a professional service.
At OG Electrical Services we are here to guide you and enlighten you on how to get the most out of your unit in terms of performance, energy efficiency, and longevity.
How Often Should You Service Your Air Conditioner?
The general rule of thumb for most air conditioning units is once a year for preventive maintenance. However, several factors can influence the frequency of servicing:
- Usage: If you use your air conditioner frequently, especially in a commercial or high-traffic environment, it may need servicing every six months.
- Environment: Dusty environments, such as construction sites or industrial areas, can clog filters faster, requiring more frequent maintenance.
- Age of Unit: Older units may need more attention than newer models, especially if they’re nearing the end of their lifecycle.
As a standard practice, scheduling a service before the peak summer season can ensure your unit is ready for heavy use, while a post-summer check can help address any issues caused by extended operation.
Why Regular Servicing is Important
Regular maintenance of your air conditioning system has several key benefits:
- Improved Efficiency: Dust and debris can clog up your system, forcing it to work harder to cool the air. Regular servicing ensures the system runs efficiently, saving energy and reducing utility bills.
- Extended Lifespan: A well-maintained unit lasts longer, postponing the need for costly replacements.
- Better Air Quality: Filters trap dust, allergens, and other pollutants, improving indoor air quality.
- Prevents Major Repairs: Routine maintenance can catch minor issues early on, preventing them from escalating into more serious (and expensive) repairs.
What’s Involved in an Air Conditioning Service?
Whilst you can clean your aircon filters yourself, there are other elements of servicing your aircons that require professionals like OG Electrical Services. Our professional air conditioning service involves a comprehensive health check and cleaning process, typically covering the following steps:
- Inspection of Key Components
- Our technicians will inspect all the unit’s critical components, such as the condenser, evaporator coils, thermostat, and other electrical connections, to ensure they are in good working condition.
- Filter Cleaning and Replacement
- Air filters are responsible for trapping dust and airborne particles, keeping the air clean. Over time, filters can get clogged, reducing airflow and efficiency. Our technicians will clean or replace the filters as needed.
- Cleaning the Coils
- Dust and grime can accumulate on the evaporator and condenser coils. Dirty coils reduce the system’s ability to absorb and release heat. Professional cleaning ensures they remain efficient and free from buildup.
- Checking Refrigerant Levels
- The refrigerant is what cools the air that circulates through your space. If levels are low, it could indicate a leak. Our technicians will check the refrigerant levels and add more if needed, while also addressing any potential leaks.
- Thermostat Calibration
- An inaccurate thermostat can affect the cooling performance of your air conditioner. Our technicians will ensure the thermostat is calibrated correctly to maintain optimal temperature control.
- Inspecting and Lubricating Moving Parts
- Moving parts, like the fan and motor, need lubrication to reduce friction, which can cause wear and tear. Our technicians will inspect and lubricate these components to keep them running smoothly.
- Checking Electrical Connections
- Loose or damaged electrical connections can be a safety hazard. The technicians will inspect the wiring and connections to ensure they’re secure and functioning properly.
- Drain Line Cleaning
- Over time, the drain line can clog with debris and algae, causing water to back up into the unit. The technicians will clean the drain line to prevent any blockages and water leakage issues.
Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Servicing
While an annual or semi-annual service is recommended, here are a few signs that indicate your unit may need more immediate attention:
- Strange noises like rattling or banging
- Reduced airflow or uneven cooling
- Bad odours coming from the unit
- Higher energy consumption than usual
- Water leaking around the unit
Regular air conditioner servicing is essential for efficient, reliable, and long-lasting performance. By having your unit checked once or twice a year, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns, lower your energy bills, and maintain a comfortable environment all year round.
Call/WhatsApp us at OG Electrical Services to help you to book a service or repair to your aircon system. The number to use is +27 73 378 6966 and email info@ogelectrical.co.za
Read more about our air-conditioning services on the following link https://www.ogelectrical.co.za/airconditioners/