A well-maintained air conditioning system is key to keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient, especially during the warmer months. While professional servicing is essential, there are a few straightforward air conditioning maintenance tips that homeowners can tackle to keep their system in good shape.
At Oxford Air Conditioning, we’ve been helping homeowners across Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds maintain their cooling systems for nearly three decades. Here are five simple air conditioning maintenance tips tailored for UK homeowners.
1. Clean or Replace Air Filters Regularly
Your air conditioning system’s filters are its first line of defence against dust, dirt, and allergens. Over time, these filters can become clogged, reducing airflow and making your system less efficient.
- How Often: Check filters every month, and clean or replace them every 1-3 months, depending on how frequently you use your system and whether you have pets or allergies.
- Top Tip: If you’ve recently had home renovations, check your filters more frequently, as they can clog quickly with dust from building work.
2. Keep the Outdoor Unit Free of Debris
The outdoor unit (often found in the garden or on a wall) needs proper airflow to work efficiently. Leaves, dirt, and debris can obstruct the system, causing it to overheat or operate less effectively.
- What to Do: Regularly clear away leaves, grass clippings, and other debris from around the unit. Keep plants or hedges trimmed to allow at least a 60cm clearance around the unit.
- Top Tip: If your unit is wall-mounted, give it a quick wipe down to prevent dirt build-up, especially after bad weather.
3. Check Your Thermostat Settings
Your thermostat plays a significant role in your system’s performance and energy efficiency. Incorrect settings can lead to overcooling or wasted energy.
- What to Do: Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature (around 24°C is ideal for cooling during summer). If you’ve got an older thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart model to manage your settings more efficiently.
- Top Tip: Smart thermostats can help you save energy by adapting to your routine, perfect for British summers where the temperature can vary day-to-day.
4. Keep Vents and Ducts Clear
Blocked vents and ducts can stop your air conditioning from working effectively, leaving some rooms feeling warmer or cooler than others.
- What to Do: Check your vents and grilles for dust and debris, giving them a quick vacuum if needed. Make sure furniture, curtains, or other household items aren’t blocking the airflow.
- Top Tip: If you notice persistent dust or poor airflow, it might be time to book a professional duct cleaning service.
5. Schedule Annual Professional Servicing
While regular DIY maintenance is important, nothing beats a full professional service to ensure your air conditioning system is in top condition. Annual servicing helps to spot potential issues before they become costly repairs and ensures your system is running efficiently.
- What to Expect: A professional engineer will check refrigerant levels, inspect wiring, clean components, and make any necessary adjustments to optimise performance.
- Top Tip: Book your servicing early in the year to avoid the summer rush—spring is a great time to get your system ready for the warmer months.
Why Regular Maintenance Is Essential
By staying on top of air conditioning maintenance, you can:
- Lower your energy bills by improving efficiency.
- Extend the lifespan of your system, delaying the need for costly replacements.
- Enjoy consistent and reliable cooling, no matter how warm it gets.
Trust Oxford Air Conditioning for Expert Care
At Oxford Air Conditioning, we’ve been delivering expert installation, servicing, and maintenance for homes across Oxfordshire, the Cotswolds, and beyond since 1996. Our professional engineers are highly experienced in keeping systems running at their best, ensuring you enjoy a comfortable, hassle-free home environment.
Ready to Book Your Service?
Contact us today to schedule your annual air conditioning service or to discuss any maintenance questions you have. With Oxford Air Conditioning, you can rest assured your system is in safe hands
