When Should I Service My Split Air Conditioner?

Split system air conditioners help keep you cool during the summer. By maintaining a split system, you can improve the longevity of the system.

This blog will discuss when to service the system and what factors decide when to service your split system.

A split system is a type of HVAC system that has an indoor and outdoor unit. Indoor units are found in areas away from the outdoor elements. Outdoor units are typically on the side of a building where there is enough ventilation.

The indoor unit typically consists of an evaporator coil and an indoor air handling unit. The outdoor unit consists of the compressor and the condenser.

Split systems are a great choice for efficient heating and cooling. There are different systems to choose from. These options include:

Knowing when to service your split unit air conditioner depends on the unit itself. However, experts recommend servicing the unit at least once a year. You should also check with the manufacturer for specific service guidelines.

Several factors can affect how often your split AC needs servicing. These factors include:

• Environment
• Usage
• Type of Filters
• Age

Environment

The environment plays a factor in when you will need to service the system. Placing units in heavy traffic or high dust areas will lead to more frequent maintenance. High pollution decreases the efficiency of the split air conditioning system and increases the chances the system becomes clogged.

The location of the split air conditioner can also change service frequency. For example, outdoor units installed in humid areas can experience high levels of corrosion. Corrosion to your unit can require more frequent service.

Usage

Increased usage of the split air conditioner can also impact operation. During summer months, split ACs see more use than in Fall and Winter. Since the unit is used more frequently in Summer, experts recommend maintenance every two months instead.

Type of filters

The type of filters in a split unit system also plays a part in how often you will need to service the unit. Clean and service units with washable filters every three months. Replace units with non-washable filters every three to six months.

Age

The age of the system can also show if you need a simple service call or a complete replacement. The older a unit is, the more problems it can encounter. Split air conditioner costs can range from $600 to $6,000.

In most cases, a split system will have a suggested replacement time listed. Consult the user manual or a licensed technician if you suspect it's time for a replacement.

As seen above, servicing split units is important and might happen more than once a year. There are many reasons why you should service your split unit.

The most important reasons to service your split unit is to lower energy bills. By regularly servicing split systems, you keep it running properly so it does not work as hard to cool your home.

One reason to service your split unit is to improve the performance. When you maintain and service the split, you ensure all the parts are cleaned, repaired, and replaced. This helps the system to properly heat and cool the area.

Another reason to service the split unit is improving the energy efficiency. By fixing the calibration, you can help the system work more efficiently. This leads to lower energy consumption.

You can also check the refrigerant levels to help enhance the energy efficiency. Adjusting refrigerant levels helps to make the system perform at its highest level and maintains energy efficiency.

Servicing your AC systems also improves air quality in your space. By consistently changing out the filter, you can remove dust, pollen and other particles. This helps to have clean and properly functioning filters that create a healthier indoor environment.

As seen above, having standard maintenance checks is important for the split system to perform effectively and efficiently. Some of the more common services that should happen every time are below.

Cleaning the air filter is a common service that a professional does during standard maintenance. The professionals clean the filters to ensure air flows freely through the system. The professionals will also check and clean the condenser coils. By cleaning the coils, the professional will help them function properly.

AC technicians will also inspect the refrigerant levels to ensure the unit is cooling properly. If necessary, they can add more to help the system cool. They will also lubricate any moving parts so they can move smoothly without friction.

While it depends on your system, it is typical to normally service your system at least once a year. That recommendation can change depending on system usage, the system's age, its location, and more.