When your air conditioning unit isn’t working correctly, the effects go beyond simple discomfort.
A system that is struggling to perform can lead to poor air quality, inconsistent temperatures and in more serious cases, health and safety risks for the people using the building. The longer a fault is left unaddressed, the more likely it is to develop into a larger and more costly problem.
Some warning signs are obvious. However, others are more subtle, such as a slight increase in energy bills, a faint smell when the unit runs or a noise that was not there before. None of these should be ignored.
Whether your system needs a routine service, a specific repair or a component replacement, acting early almost always works out cheaper than waiting for a full breakdown.
If you are awaiting an engineer to come and service your air conditioning, this guide from Lee Jackson will tell you what to expect once they arrive at your home or commercial premises.
Is An Air Conditioning Service Compulsory?
In the UK, there isn’t a strict nationwide mandate that requires regular air conditioning service checks for residential properties. However, there are regulations and guidelines in place regarding the use and maintenance of air conditioning systems to ensure energy efficiency, environmental protection, and overall safety.
The Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations 2007 states that air conditioning systems with an effective rated output of more than 12 kW are inspected regularly, with the first inspection taking place within five years of the installation and at least every five years thereafter. The laws and regulations around air conditioning can change depending on what type of property you‚’re in, so checking these is absolutely necessary.
How Do You Know If An Air Conditioning Unit Needs Service Maintenance?
As previously mentioned, a damaged or worn-out unit doesn’t just affect the room temperature, but can also lead to more serious problems such as overheating, poor air quality and toxic chemical release. So how do you know if your unit is in need of a maintenance checkup?
- Poor cooling output and performance
- Increased energy bills
- Strange or rattled noises
- Odours
- Low-quality airflow
- Water leaks
- Short cycles
- Ice formation
- Old or outdated unit
Get in touch with a member of our team with any maintenance enquiries or quotes!
Manufacturer’s Recommendations
On many occasions, a simple maintenance check or service from a professional air conditioning technician can solve these issues, and investing in regular checks makes it less likely that these issues will arise. However, in more cases, especially if you have abandoned consistent services, air conditioning units will need to be replaced.
Find out more about signs your air conditioning unit needs replacing here.
What Does An Air Conditioning Service Involve?
An air conditioning service is a structured programme of checks and maintenance tasks designed to keep your system running safely, efficiently and reliably. The exact scope can vary depending on the type of system, the manufacturer’s recommendations and what your maintenance provider includes as standard, but a thorough service should cover all of the key components that affect performance and longevity.
Here is what you can typically expect:
Filter Replacement And Cleaning
Filters are your system’s first line of defence against dust, allergens and airborne particles. Over time they become clogged, which restricts airflow and forces the system to work harder than it needs to. During a service, filters will be cleaned or replaced depending on their condition, restoring air quality and helping the unit run at its intended efficiency.
Coil Cleaning
The evaporator and condenser coils are central to how your system transfers heat. Dirt and debris build up on these coils gradually, reducing their ability to absorb and release heat effectively. Cleaning them as part of a routine air conditioning service maintains performance and prevents the kind of strain that shortens a system’s working life.
Refrigerant
Refrigerant is what makes cooling possible. If levels are low it is usually a sign of a leak somewhere in the system rather than simple depletion, and that needs to be identified and resolved. An engineer will check that refrigerant levels sit within the manufacturer’s specified range and investigate any shortfall.
Safety Checks
All safety controls and protective mechanisms will be tested to confirm the system operates without posing a risk to the people using the building. This includes checking cut-offs, pressure controls and any fault detection features built into the unit.
Thermostat Calibration
A thermostat that reads temperatures inaccurately will cause the system to cycle incorrectly, leading to discomfort and wasted energy. Calibration ensures the thermostat responds accurately so your system maintains the temperature you actually set, whether that is in a home or a commercial environment.
Condensate Draining
The condensate drain removes moisture extracted from the air during cooling. Left unchecked, it can become blocked with algae, mould or debris, leading to water damage or the system shutting itself down as a precaution. Clearing the drain is a straightforward task that prevents a disproportionate amount of disruption.
Electrical Inspection
Every connection, control and electrical component will be inspected for signs of wear, corrosion or loose wiring. Electrical faults are one of the more common causes of system failure and a potential safety hazard, so this part of the service is as important as any of the mechanical checks.
Fan And Motor Inspection
Fans and motors drive air circulation throughout the system. An engineer will check lubrication, inspect belts where applicable and assess overall performance to make sure everything is turning freely and operating within normal parameters. Worn bearings or failing motors caught early are far less costly to address than a complete breakdown.
Seal And Ducts
Where a system uses ductwork, the engineer will inspect it for leaks, damage and any signs of water ingress. Leaking ducts can significantly reduce the efficiency of an otherwise well-maintained system and may allow damp to cause damage over time.
System Efficiency Assessment
A good air conditioning service goes beyond simply checking that the system works. It should include an assessment of how efficiently the system is performing against its rated output, with practical recommendations for reducing energy consumption and cutting running costs. Small adjustments identified during a service can make a meaningful difference to energy bills over the course of a year.
Air Conditioning Maintenance FAQs
Want to feel more prepared ahead of your air con maintenance appointment? We’ve answered some of the most common queries below.
For anything else, please give us a call on 0800 949 9070.
How Often Should Air Conditioning Be Serviced?
Most manufacturers and installers recommend a service once a year. If your system use is on the heavier side (i.e. in a commercial setting), twice yearly is worth considering. Regular servicing keeps efficiency up and catches small issues before they become expensive ones.
What Does Air Conditioning Servicing Involve?
A standard service covers cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, inspecting electrical components, testing controls and thermostats, and ensuring the unit drains correctly. An engineer will flag anything that needs attention and leave the system running as it should.
What Is HVAC Maintenance And Why Does It Matter?
HVAC maintenance covers the full range of heating, ventilation and air conditioning upkeep. Keeping on top of it means better air quality, lower energy bills and a longer lifespan for your equipment. Neglecting it tends to result in breakdowns at the worst possible time.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Cooling Properly?
The most common causes are dirty filters, low refrigerant, a blocked outdoor unit or a failing compressor. A lot of these are picked up and resolved during a routine service, which is why regular air conditioner maintenance pays for itself.
How Do I Know If My Air Con Needs A Service?
Watch out for reduced airflow, unusual noises, unpleasant smells, longer run times or higher energy bills. Any of these are signs that servicing your aircon sooner rather than later is a good idea.
Can I Do Air Conditioning Maintenance Myself?
Cleaning or replacing filters is something most people can handle. Beyond that, refrigerant handling, electrical checks and mechanical inspections need to be carried out by a qualified engineer. Attempting these without the right training can void warranties and create safety risks.
What Happens If I Skip Air Conditioning Maintenance?
Efficiency drops, energy bills rise, and the risk of a full breakdown increases significantly. In commercial settings, this can mean lost productivity and costly emergency call-outs. Routine maintenance is almost always cheaper than reactive repairs.
How Long Does An Air Conditioning Service Take?
For a standard domestic or light commercial unit, most services take between one and two hours. Larger or more complex systems will naturally take longer.
Book Your Air Conditioning Yearly Service Or A Repair From Lee Jackson
Lee Jackson Air Conditioning provide expert maintenance and repair for a number of air conditioning systems across Nottingham. Derby, Leicester and the rest of the UK. Our team of installers and engineers are well skilled and knowledgeable of all air con units and specialise in top quality brands including:
If you‚’re looking for an expert to come and look at your unit or set of units, get in touch with our team on 0800 949 9070 and we’ll get you the help you need!
