7 Preventative Steps to Avoid Air Conditioning Breakdowns

There’s nothing worse than your air conditioning breaking down during a heatwave or busy workday. A faulty system can cause discomfort, lower productivity, and lead to costly repairs. Thankfully, many common issues are preventable with regular maintenance and a few simple checks. In this guide, we share seven practical steps to help keep your AC unit running smoothly throughout the year. These preventative measures can boost efficiency, reduce breakdown risks, and prolong your system’s lifespan. Whether you’re maintaining a home setup or a commercial system, these tips apply to all. For expert support, trust a reliable air conditioning service in London.

1. Book Regular Maintenance Checks

One of the most effective ways to prevent breakdowns is to arrange regular maintenance with a qualified technician. Routine servicing allows professionals to spot small issues before they become costly problems.

A well-maintained air conditioning system will operate more efficiently, use less energy, and deliver better cooling performance. Most experts recommend having your unit serviced at least once a year—ideally before the summer begins.

In commercial buildings or places where air conditioning is used daily, more frequent checks may be needed. A certified technician can test your system, clean internal parts, and ensure it’s running safely and effectively.

If you’re unsure when your system was last serviced, it’s a good idea to schedule one now. In busy cities like London, it’s best to book early to avoid peak demand.

2. Clean or Replace Filters Regularly

Dirty air filters are one of the most common reasons air conditioning units stop working properly. When filters become clogged with dust, dirt, and pet hair, they restrict airflow, making the system work harder. This can lead to overheating and higher energy bills.

Cleaning or replacing filters regularly helps keep the air fresh, prevents dust from circulating indoors, and reduces wear on your unit. For most residential systems, filters should be cleaned or replaced every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage and environment.

This is a simple task that many homeowners can do themselves. If your filter looks grey or dusty, it’s time to clean it. In larger commercial systems, it’s best to leave it to professionals who provide air conditioning service London.

3. Inspect and Clean the Coils

The evaporator and condenser coils inside your air conditioner help absorb and release heat. Over time, these coils collect dirt, which reduces their ability to transfer heat efficiently. This can cause your system to overheat or stop cooling altogether.

To prevent this, it’s important to inspect and clean the coils at least once a year. You can gently brush away surface dust, but deeper cleaning should be done by a trained technician to avoid damaging the parts.

When coils are clean, your air conditioner works more smoothly, uses less energy, and cools your space more quickly. Clean coils also reduce the risk of the unit freezing up or leaking.

4. Check Thermostat Settings

Sometimes, the issue isn’t with the air conditioning unit itself but with how it’s being used. Thermostat settings play a big role in how efficiently your system runs. If the temperature is set too low, your unit may work harder than necessary, leading to breakdowns.

Make sure your thermostat is programmed correctly for your needs. For example, you can set it to a higher temperature when you’re away from home and lower it before you return. Smart or programmable thermostats can help you do this automatically.

Also, make sure the thermostat is working properly and located away from heat sources, which can affect its readings.

5. Clear Debris from Around the Unit

If your air conditioning system has an outdoor unit (also known as a condenser), it’s important to keep the area around it clear. Leaves, grass, rubbish, and even garden furniture can block airflow and cause the unit to overheat.

To prevent this, regularly check the space around your outdoor unit. Make sure there’s at least two feet of clear space on all sides. Avoid storing objects too close to it, and trim back any plants or bushes that are growing nearby.

This simple step can improve airflow and reduce the risk of overheating, especially during warmer months.

6. Ensure Proper Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant is the liquid that helps your air conditioner cool the air. If your system is low on refrigerant, it may not cool properly or could even freeze up. Low levels can also put extra stress on the compressor, leading to expensive repairs.

Signs of low refrigerant include warm air coming from vents, ice on the coils, or hissing noises from the unit. If you notice any of these, it’s important to get a professional inspection right away.

Only a certified technician can check refrigerant levels and refill them safely. It’s also a legal requirement in the UK for technicians handling refrigerants to hold specific qualifications. If you need a trusted technician for air conditioning repair London, be sure to choose someone who is fully certified.

7. Check and Tighten Electrical Connections

Air conditioning systems rely on many electrical components to operate. Over time, wires can loosen, and connections may wear out. If left unchecked, this can lead to system malfunctions or even pose a safety hazard.

During a routine maintenance check, a qualified technician will inspect all electrical connections, including capacitors and relays. They will tighten loose wires, replace damaged parts, and test the system’s electrical components.

This step is not recommended as a DIY task, as working with electricity can be dangerous. It’s best left to experienced engineers who can ensure everything is working safely and efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Preventing air conditioning breakdowns is easier than you might think. By following seven key steps—scheduling regular maintenance, replacing filters, cleaning coils, checking the thermostat, clearing outdoor debris, monitoring refrigerant levels, and inspecting electrical components—you can keep your system running efficiently and reliably. Proper care not only enhances comfort at home or work but also helps avoid expensive emergency repairs. If you need professional air conditioning service in London or quick air conditioning repair in London, trust the experts who know your system best. Hamilton Air Conditioning Ltd provides reliable services for residential and commercial clients, ensuring year-round comfort and performance.