If someone had told a Londoner 10 years ago, ‘you will need an air conditioner,’ they would have been met with a surprised face. Unfortunately, with new builds popping up daily and less greenery around us, coupled with the continuously rising temperature, that person would have been right. According to Statista, the demand for air conditioners in the UK in 2021 was 213,000 units, the highest so far. As daily-used equipment improving our well-being, air conditioning units require regular tune-ups to maintain proper functionality. Let’s address how often you need to tune up your air conditioner, what the tune-up involves, and provide some additional tips.
What is an AC Tune-Up?
An AC tune-up is a maintenance service performed once or twice a year (depending on usage) by an HVAC specialist. A tune-up is a preventative maintenance measure ensuring the system operates efficiently and reliably. It is often confused with AC maintenance, and while they serve the same purpose, they differ in tasks, frequency, and focus. Having an AC maintenance plan means a technician will visit you monthly and will conduct a visual inspection, cleaning or replacing the filters, cleaning debris from the condenser coil, and will verify basic operation of the system.
The tune-up, also known as a bi-annual/annual inspection, goes beyond this and involves deeper checks. The HVAC specialist will perform a detailed inspection of the refrigerant system, assess the system’s efficiency, conduct a more thorough inspection of electrical connections and more.
Why Are AC Tune-Ups Important in London?
If you want to prevent air conditioning replacement or expensive repairs, you need to take care of the system. Of course, there is no guarantee that bad things will not happen, but the chances of them occurring are significantly reduced. Furthermore, the usage patterns of air conditioners are evolving in London. A recent study indicates that the urban heat island effect significantly increases the demand for air conditioning in London, with urban cooling loads up to 25% higher than rural loads.
Nowadays, advanced models with heat pump technology are available in the market. By reversing the process, they can act as the heating system in the winter. This trend is becoming more popular in the UK due to their efficiency. However, traditional air conditioners without heat pumps may not be suitable for primary winter heating. We recommend having a planned maintenance plan which includes an AC tune-up twice per year, also known as a bi-annual inspection. These preventative actions cover every aspect of your system. From regular cleaning or replacing of air filters to checking the overall functionality of your system. More than just the maintenance of the air conditioning systems, these measures are essential for your health.
Signs Your AC Needs Attention Despite Regular Maintenance
Even with the best-planned maintenance plan, issues can still arise. If you notice unusual noises, reduced cooling efficiency, uneven temperatures in your home, or water leaks around the unit, it’s important to contact your HVAC contractor immediately. Air conditioners are designed to enhance our comfort, but it’s crucial to recognize their significant impact on our health. In London, where the pollen count is high, upgrading and installing more efficient air filters can make a huge difference. Additionally, experiencing unusual weather, such as a sunny 26-degree day in March followed by a chilly 10-degree rainy one, highlights the importance of getting a pre-season tune-up. Another benefit of a functional system is humidification. Most air conditioners have this function, allowing you to control humidity levels in your home. In summary, having a maintenance plan not only improves the well-being of your system but also enhances your overall health and well-being.
How Does a Professional Fit into the Picture?
Yes, while there are some precautionary measures you can take on your own, how can you be certain you’ve chosen the right ones? When it comes to AC tune-ups, precision and expertise are crucial. Entrusting the task to a professional ensures thorough assessment and precise recommendations for optimal performance and safety. More than that, as a facilities management provider we can offer a planned maintenance plan including more than your HVAC system, because we can take care of every aspect of your property. Our services are covering 24/7 call outs, scheduled maintenance and emergency repairs, and are designed to ensure your comfort and safety – contact us today for a complete facilities management solution.