Air conditioning is a long term investment that provides fresh, filtered air and comfortable conditions in either the home or working environment. It’s also a complex system of components, all of which are subject to failure if not properly maintained.
Some issues may start out small, but can result in costly damages if left unattended. With that in mind, look out for these common signs your air conditioner needs repair.
The most obvious sign your system is underperforming is a lack of cool air, but you should also keep an eye on the amount of time it takes to reach the required temperature. A delay here could indicate clogged filters, or blocked ductwork in a central system.
It could also be down to a lack of refrigerant, caused by a leak. This is a significantly more serious issue that should be repaired as soon as possible by a qualified engineer.
If you’re picking up a musty odour from your system, it’s likely a case of mould, or potentially a small bird or rodent trapped inside. Either way, you should get it checked as soon as you notice the smell to prevent potential health consequences.
If you pick up a sulphurous or metallic smell, you may have a refrigerant leak or electrical burnout respectively. If either of these is the case, do not delay in seeking professional advice.
One of the major benefits of air conditioning in the workplace (and indeed the home) is that it filters the air, removing dust, pollen and other pollutants. This gives anyone with allergies or respiratory problems a much safer environment to work or live in.
If someone suddenly starts experiencing problems, there’s an issue with filtration that needs to be investigated.
Today’s modern systems, when in top condition, operate so quietly they often go unnoticed. If that changes, it’s time to book a service.
Strange noises are usually a sign of general wear and tear, like a lack of lubricant on moving parts, or a loose component. If left unchecked, these can cause serious issues over time.
If you find a build up of moisture, drips or pools of water anywhere near your system, get it checked straight away.
It could be a blockage or break in your condensate pipe, or it could be the more serious issues of a refrigerant leak.
If you notice a spike in your energy consumption, your AC system may not be working as efficiently as it should be.
It may be tempting to ignore this to avoid a service charge (and potentially a repair bill) but that’s a false economy. Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure maximum efficiency of your system, keeping both your bills and your carbon footprint down.
To avoid any costly repairs, it’s advisable to have your system serviced on a regular basis - how often that is will all depend on its usage.
For domestic AC, an annual service check is usually fine. This will ensure your system is working as it should, as well as keeping you covered under the manufacturer warranty for replacement parts.
In commercial and industrial settings, it’s highly recommended that you invest in Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM). This typically involves twice yearly visits or more depending on the complexity of the system and the use it’s subjected to.
