Does My AC Need Servicing? How Often You Should Book It

You are probably thinking, “My air conditioner seems to be working fine. Do I really need to service it?”

It is a common thought, especially when the system is quietly doing its job in the background. But just because it is running does not mean it is running well.

At Lenergy, we have worked with hundreds of homeowners who thought the same thing, right up until their AC struggled during the hottest days of the year. The truth is, small issues often build up unnoticed, only to cause expensive breakdowns when you need cooling the most.

In this guide, you will get a clear, honest answer about when your AC needs servicing, how often you should book it in, and what to expect during a service visit. 

Why Regular AC Servicing Matters

At first glance, air conditioning might seem like a set-and-forget appliance. You install it, use it when needed, and that is it. However, like any machine that works hard behind the scenes, an AC unit needs regular care to stay efficient and reliable.

Even if your system seems fine, dust, dirt, and moisture are constantly building up inside. Filters clog, airflow reduces, and the system has to work harder to deliver the same comfort. Over time, this hidden strain can lead to parts wearing out faster, higher electricity bills, and a greater chance of the system failing when you need it most.

Think of it like servicing your car. You would not skip oil changes just because the engine sounds okay today. Regular servicing catches small issues before they turn into major, costly repairs. It also keeps your air conditioning running efficiently, which saves you money on energy bills and extends the life of the unit.

Servicing is not about fixing what is broken. It is about keeping what works in good condition for the long haul.

Telltale Signs Your AC Needs Servicing

Sometimes, your air conditioner will give you little warning signs that it needs attention. The earlier you spot them, the easier and cheaper they are to fix.

Here are the most common clues:

1. Weak airflow

If the air coming from your vents feels weaker than usual, it could mean a clogged filter, a blocked duct, or a failing motor. Weak airflow forces your system to work harder, using more energy and putting extra strain on key parts.

2. Strange noises

A healthy AC should hum quietly in the background. If you start hearing rattling, buzzing, grinding, or banging sounds, it is a clear sign that something is loose, worn, or out of balance.

3. Unusual smells

If you notice musty, burnt, or chemical smells when you turn the AC on, it could mean mould inside the system, burnt wiring, or refrigerant leaks. None of these issues should be ignored.

4. Inconsistent cooling

Are some rooms much cooler than others? Is your AC struggling to maintain the temperature you set? These can be early signs of a system that needs a service check.

5. Higher energy bills

If your energy bills are creeping up even though your usage has not changed, your AC may be working less efficiently due to blocked filters, dirty coils, or worn parts.

Recognising these early signs can save you from bigger, more expensive repairs down the track.

How Often Should You Service Your AC?

As a general rule, your air conditioner should be professionally serviced at least once a year. This annual check-up helps catch any hidden issues, keeps the system running efficiently, and ensures it is ready to handle the demands of the coming season.

The best time for a service is in the lead-up to summer or, for reverse cycle systems, before you start relying on it for heating in winter. Servicing before peak seasons helps avoid the rush when technicians are busiest and ensures your system is ready when you need it most.

However, there are a few situations where more frequent servicing might be a good idea:

• High usage: If you run your AC heavily for long periods, twice-yearly servicing can prevent excess wear and tear.
  
• Allergy concerns: If someone in your home has asthma or allergies, clean filters and internal components are even more important. More frequent check-ups help maintain better air quality.
  
• Dusty or coastal environments: If you live in a dusty area or near the ocean where salt can build up, your system will need extra care to prevent damage.
  

Even if everything seems fine, regular servicing is a small investment that can save you hundreds, even thousands, in the long run.

What Happens During an AC Service?

If you have ever wondered what actually happens during an AC service, you are not alone. Many people imagine a quick filter clean and a few button presses. In reality, a proper service goes much deeper.

Here is what a thorough service usually involves:

1. Cleaning the filters and coils

Over time, dust and dirt clog up filters and coat the coils. A technician will clean these properly to restore airflow and system efficiency.

2. Checking refrigerant levels

Your AC needs the right amount of refrigerant to cool effectively. A technician will check for leaks and top up the refrigerant if needed.

3. Inspecting electrical components

Loose connections or worn electrical parts can cause breakdowns. During a service, these are carefully inspected and tested to catch problems early.

4. Testing the thermostat

The thermostat controls how your AC runs. If it is out of calibration, your system could be working harder than it needs to. A technician will test and recalibrate it if necessary.

5. Clearing the condensate drain

The condensate drain removes moisture that your AC pulls from the air. If it gets blocked, it can cause leaks and water damage. Servicing includes checking and clearing this drain.

6. Assessing overall system performance

Finally, the technician will run the system through its settings to make sure everything is running as it should. Any odd noises, smells, or performance issues are picked up here.

A good service is about more than just preventing breakdowns. It is about making sure your AC works better, uses less energy, and lasts longer.

How Lenergy Makes It Easy for You

At Lenergy, we believe air conditioning maintenance shouldn’t be stressful, confusing, or expensive. It should simply be part of looking after your home, just like regular car servicing.

That is why we along with other trusted suppliers such as Daikin, recommend booking a professional maintenance service for your air conditioner once a year. If you use your system heavily, live in a coastal or dusty area, or have family members with allergies, it is smart to consider a service every six months instead.

We aim to make the whole process simple. Our technicians check everything properly, explain what they find in plain English, and only suggest work that genuinely needs doing. No pushy sales tactics, no hidden costs, just honest advice to help you keep your home comfortable all year round.

When you book with Lenergy, you can feel confident knowing your system is in expert hands, helping you avoid nasty surprises when you need cool or warm air the most.

Book your AC servicing with us today.