How to Maintain Your Split AC for Maximum Cooling and Longevity

Having a reliable air conditioner is essential to comfort if you live in the UAE, and keeping that AC well maintained is key to the efficiency, durability, and cooling output of the machine. No one likes it when the air conditioner fails during a hot day, so here’s how to make sure it doesn’t!

1. Clean the Filters Regularly

Accumulation of dust and dirt in the filters can restrict airflow, reducing cooling capacity and increasing energy consumption. Additionally, it can pose a health hazard, as air passing through a dirty filter carries contaminants into the cooled area.

• Change and clean the air filters every two to three weeks.
• Use mild soap and water, then let them dry completely before reinserting.
• Change filters every few months when they seem to be used.

This simple step significantly improves system efficiency and indoor air quality.

2. Keep the Indoor and Outdoor Units Clean

To keep your split AC working well, it's important to clean it regularly. Dust can clog the indoor coils, and leaves or dirt can stop airflow in the outdoor unit.

• Wipe the indoor unit with a soft, dry cloth.
• Use a vacuum or soft brush to clean the evaporator coils.
• Make sure the outdoor unit is clear of leaves, dirt, and other debris.

A clean AC cools better and helps avoid breakdowns caused by extra strain on the system.

3. Check and Clean the Condenser Coils

The condenser coils outside the AC can get dusty, which causes heat to build up and reduces cooling.

• Check the coils every few months.
• Use a coil cleaner spray or a soft brush to remove any dirt.
• Make sure there’s nothing blocking the area around the unit so air can flow freely.

Taking care of the condenser helps your AC work better and last longer.

4. Schedule Regular AC Checkups

Routine AC checks by professionals can help detect issues before they turn into major problems. AC regular maintenance should include:

• Checking refrigerant levels.
• Inspecting electrical components.
• Cleaning the drain line to prevent water leakage.
• Ensuring the thermostat is functioning properly.

Scheduling an annual professional AC check keeps your system in peak condition.

5. Monitor Refrigerant Levels

Low levels of refrigerant can impact cooling performance and contribute to energy usage. Deteriorated cooling or unusual noises can signal the need to check the refrigerant.

• Leak detection and refrigerant refilling must be done by a professional only.
• Regular AC checkup ensures that your AC works efficiently and wards off breakdowns.

Disregarding refrigerant problems may result in costly AC repairs, so be proactive.

6. Use Your AC Efficiently

How you use your AC can affect how long it lasts. Here are some simple tips:

• Set the temperature on the thermostat between 22–26°C to reduce stress on the system.
• Keep doors and windows closed while the AC is running.
• Use ceiling fans to spread cool air around the room.
• Turn off the AC when you're not home to avoid overuse.

Using your AC wisely helps it last longer and keeps your electricity bills lower.

7. Get Professional Maintenance Services

Doing some maintenance yourself is important, but professional AC service ensures deep cleaning and detailed checks.

• Experts can spot problems that are easy to miss.
• Professional maintenance includes a full system inspection and cleaning.
• Regular checkups help your AC work better, save energy, and avoid breakdowns.

Spending on professional care now can save you money later.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your split AC is simple: regularly clean both the indoor and outdoor units, watch out for unusual noises or smells, and check for any hissing sounds from the outdoor unit that may indicate a refrigerant leak. Most importantly, schedule routine checkups to ensure it continues to perform efficiently.
Doing this ensures your AC cools well, lasts longer, and avoids costly repairs.

Visit Taqeef to schedule your next checkup, and let our specialists walk you through tailored maintenance plans to choose the best one.