A clean, serviced aircon cools better, uses less electricity, lasts longer and keeps the air in the room healthier. Most of the routine care takes a few minutes.
What you can do yourself
- Clean the filters every 2–4 weeks in summer, more often in dusty areas — step-by-step guide.
- Wipe the front panel and louvres with a damp cloth.
- Keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves, plants and stored items.
- Check that the drain pipe outside drips water when cooling and isn’t blocked.
How often to book a service
For homes, at least once a year — before summer is ideal. For offices, shops and units that run every day, every three to six months.
What a proper service includes
- Cleaning the filters, the indoor coil and the fan.
- Flushing and checking the condensate drain.
- Cleaning the outdoor coil and checking the fan.
- Checking electrical connections and the remote.
- Measuring the air temperature and checking the system is working correctly.
How often should an aircon be serviced?
At least once a year for home units and every three to six months for commercial units that run daily. Clean the filters yourself every few weeks in between.
What are the signs my aircon needs a service?
Weaker airflow, a musty smell, water dripping indoors, ice on the pipes, unusual noises, or the room taking longer to cool than it used to.
Why does my aircon smell bad?
A musty smell usually means dust and mould on the filters, coil or drain. Clean the filters; if the smell stays, book a service to clean the coil and drain.