How To Get The Most Out Of Your AC: Maintenance Tips To Boost Efficiency
With the summer sun blazing outside, the sound of an air conditioner humming away is often the only thing standing between us and heatstroke. Whether you're in Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, or Mumbai, an efficient air conditioner is more of a necessity than a luxury. But like any other machine, air conditioners need regular care to function optimally. Often, we take our AC units for granted until they begin to falter, leaving us to sweat it out in the stifling heat, grappling with rising electricity bills. To save your from summer stress and possible heat stroke and yes, loss of money too, here we list the top split, window, or inverter AC maintenance tips to boost its efficiency this summer. These tips can be easily implemented by anyone.
So, let's dive into the world of AC maintenance and get your unit running at peak performance!
Maximise Your Air Conditioner's Lifespan: Top AC Maintenance Tips To Follow; Photo Credit: Pexels
1. Top AC Maintenance Tips: Clean the Air Filter Regularly
The air filter is the unsung hero of your air conditioner. It prevents dust, dirt, and pollutants from entering the system, ensuring that the air you breathe remains fresh and clean. However, a clogged filter can hinder airflow, causing your AC to work harder and consume more energy. Over time, this can lead to poor cooling performance and higher electricity bills.
In India, where dust and pollution are constant companions, cleaning the filter every 2-3 weeks is a good idea. The good news is that it's an incredibly simple task. Just turn off the AC, remove the filter from its slot, and wash it under lukewarm water. You can use a mild detergent if needed, but avoid harsh chemicals. Let the filter dry completely before putting it back into place. Trust me, this small step can significantly improve your AC's efficiency.
2. Top AC Maintenance Tips: Check Condenser Coils
The condenser coils are responsible for releasing heat from the refrigerant, making them a crucial part of the cooling process. Over time, these coils can accumulate dust, dirt, and debris, especially if the AC is placed near an open window or outside environment. When the coils are clogged, heat release is restricted, and your AC's efficiency drops.
To keep the coils in optimal shape, it's a good idea to inspect them every 6 months. If you notice a build-up of grime, carefully clean it with a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, don't hesitate to call in a professional for a more thorough cleaning. After all, a well-maintained condenser coil can extend the life of your AC and prevent costly repairs in the future.
3. Top AC Maintenance Tips: Ensure Proper Insulation of Ducts and Pipes
In an Indian home, proper insulation is often overlooked, especially in older buildings. Insulation is a key factor in ensuring that your air conditioner works efficiently. Without it, the cool air generated by your AC will easily escape through uninsulated ducts and pipes, forcing the system to work harder. This not only reduces the cooling capacity but also spikes electricity consumption.
If your air conditioner uses ducts, inspect them for leaks or gaps and seal them with duct tape or foam sealant. If possible, get the ducts insulated with the help of a professional. For window ACs, ensure that the area around the unit is tightly sealed to prevent air from leaking out. Remember, it's all about keeping the cool air inside where it belongs and the warm air outside, especially in the scorching Indian summers.
4. Top AC Maintenance Tips: Keep the Area Around the Unit Clean
Think of your air conditioner as a high-performance athlete, if you surround it with obstacles, it won't be able to perform at its best. The area around your AC, whether it's a window unit or a split AC, should be clear of clutter, debris, and anything that could obstruct airflow.
For window units, check the outdoor condenser unit regularly. It can easily get blocked by dirt, leaves, or even a neighbour's pet! For split ACs, ensure that there's adequate space around the unit to allow for proper air circulation. Also, check the drain line for any blockages. A clogged drain can lead to water leakage and reduced efficiency. The better the space around your AC, the better it will perform, making your home cooler and more energy-efficient.
Maximise Your AC's Lifespan: Top Maintenance Tips; Photo Credit: Pexels
5. Top AC Maintenance Tips: Maintain Refrigerant Level
The refrigerant in your air conditioner plays a vital role in cooling your home. If the refrigerant level is too low, the AC's performance will suffer, and it will consume more power in a futile attempt to cool your space. A drop in refrigerant levels is often a sign of a leak in the system.
In such cases, it's crucial to call a professional technician to inspect and refill the refrigerant. Never attempt to top up the refrigerant yourself, as improper handling can damage the AC. Ideally, the refrigerant should be checked at least once a year, particularly before the summer heat hits full force. Keeping the refrigerant at optimal levels is essential for long-lasting performance.
6. Top AC Maintenance Tips: Set Temperature Wisely
It can be tempting to turn the AC temperature down to the lowest setting, especially when the summer heat is at its peak. However, setting the temperature too low not only leads to unnecessary energy wastage but can also overstrain the AC. In India, where summers can get unbearably hot, setting your thermostat at around 24°C (75°F) is usually ideal.
For those of us using inverter ACs, you can even set a higher temperature like 26°C and still feel comfortable, thanks to the constant airflow. Additionally, using a ceiling fan in conjunction with your AC can help circulate the cool air more efficiently, allowing you to set the temperature a bit higher without compromising on comfort. Little tweaks like this can reduce your energy consumption and your electricity bill.
7. Top AC Maintenance Tips: Ensure Annual Servicing
While regular cleaning and maintenance are essential, there's no substitute for a professional check-up at least once a year. AC technicians are trained to spot issues that may not be immediately obvious, such as internal wear and tear or refrigerant leaks. During a routine service, they will clean internal components, check the refrigerant level, and perform a thorough inspection to ensure everything is working smoothly.
In India, where temperatures soar, it's especially important to have your AC serviced before the summer months. Not only will this help prevent unexpected breakdowns, but it will also keep your unit running more efficiently, saving you money in the long run. Remember, prevention is always cheaper than repair!
8. Top AC Maintenance Tips: Switch It Off On Exiting Room
It sounds like a no-brainer, but many people forget to switch off their air conditioners when they leave a room or go to bed. Even if you set the AC to a timer, it's easy to forget that it's running when you're not around. By simply turning off the AC when you don't need it, you can reduce unnecessary power consumption.
Additionally, if you're going out for an extended period, set your AC to a higher temperature or switch it off completely. Using a programmable thermostat or smart AC controller can help manage this automatically, ensuring you never waste energy. In a country like India, where electricity bills can skyrocket, this small habit can make a noticeable difference over time.
Maximise Your AC's Lifespan: Top Maintenance Tips; Photo Credit: Pexels
MarQ, Lloyd, Godrej To Voltas, Products On Flipkart Related To This Article
1. MarQ by Flipkart 2025 1.5 Ton 3 Star Split Inverter 5-in-1 Convertible with Turbo Cool Technology AC
2. Lloyd 2023 Model 0.8 Ton 3 Star Split Inverter AC
3. ONIDA 5-in-1 Convertible Cooling 1.5 Ton 3 Star Split Inverter With Deep Cleaning AC
4. Godrej 2024 Model 5-In-1-Convertible Cooling 1.4 Ton 3 Star Split Inverter Heavy Duty Cooling At Extreme Temperature AC
5. Midea 2025 Model 1 Ton 3 Star Split Inverter AC with Wi-fi Connect
6. Voltas 2024 Model 1.5 Ton 3 Star Split Inverter AC
7. Haier 2024 Model 1.5 Ton 3 Star Split Dual Inverter 5 in 1 Convertible with Micro Bacterial Filter
8. Panasonic 2024 Model 7 in 1 Convertible with True AI Mode 1.5 Ton 3 Star Split Inverter AC with Wi-fi Connect
Maintaining your air conditioner for maximum efficiency doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. With a little effort and regular care, your AC can work at its best, keeping you cool and comfortable no matter how high the mercury rises. By following these simple tips, cleaning the filter, checking the condenser coils, ensuring proper insulation, and scheduling professional check-ups, you'll not only extend the life of your unit but also ensure that it continues to run efficiently throughout the year.
So, before the next heatwave hits, take the time to give your air conditioner some much-needed attention. Trust me, both you and your wallet will thank you when the summer heat rolls in!
Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.
