The investment in an air conditioning unit can be significant, but increasingly, businesses are choosing to install them to keep their teams comfortable during the warmer months. Let’s be honest, we’ve had our fair share of heatwaves over the last 10 years and working in a stifling, overheated space can seriously impact wellbeing, productivity and even health.
So, you’ve taken the leap and fitted a system, perhaps it’s one that may also double up as a heater during colder months. But installing it is just the beginning. To get the most from your air conditioning unit and avoid expensive repair bills, you need to maintain it regularly. The best place to start? Understanding some of the most common problems and how to prevent them.
1. Dirty Filters
It’s no surprise that dust, dirt and debris build-up can wreak havoc on your system. A clogged filter reduces airflow, lowers cooling efficiency and increases energy consumption. Worse, it can negatively affect air quality, leading to health issues like allergies or respiratory discomfort for your team.
Tip: Hold your filter up to a light; if you can’t see light passing through, it’s time to clean or replace it. This small step, done regularly, can have a big impact on the performance and longevity of your unit.
BEWARE: Be mindful of legionella bacteria that can fester in poorly maintained water-based cooling towers and evaporative condensers. Regular maintenance and cleaning are both crucial in preventing Legionella growth and reduce the risk of infection.
2. Leaky Refrigerants
Low refrigerant levels are one of the most common causes of poor cooling. If your system isn’t cooling properly or is taking too long to reach the set temperature, you could have a refrigerant leak.
Tip: A technician can inspect the system, identify the leak and recharge it to the manufacturer’s specifications. Avoid DIY fixes, handling refrigerants without proper certification can be dangerous and is often illegal.
3. Thermostat problems
Sometimes the issue isn’t the AC unit itself, but the thermostat. If the thermostat is malfunctioning, your system may run at the wrong temperature or not at all.
Tip: Make sure your thermostat is calibrated correctly and, if it’s an older model, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for better control and energy efficiency.
4. Clogged Drain Line
Air conditioners remove humidity from the air and that moisture needs somewhere to go. If the drain line becomes clogged with algae, mould or debris, it can back up and cause water damage or increased humidity inside the building.
Tip: Schedule regular maintenance to have the drain line inspected and flushed out as needed. Again, be aware of hazards such as legionella bacteria that causes Legionnaires’ disease.
5. Fan Problems
Your air conditioning unit contains two fans: one that blows indoor air over the evaporator coil and another that expels heat outside. Faults with either can cause poor airflow, overheating or even compressor failure.
Tip: Strange noises, reduced airflow or overheating could indicate a fan issue. Addressing these early can prevent bigger (and more expensive) problems.
6. Electrical issues with fuses, capacitors or blown breakers
If your unit won’t start, the issue may be electrical. Blown fuses or tripped breakers can happen when the system is working too hard or components become worn.
Tip: If your system trips the power often, have a technician inspect it. Repeated electrical issues can signal deeper mechanical faults or an undersized unit.
7. Dirty condenser coils
The condenser coil releases heat from your system to the outside. If it’s covered in grime or debris, the system will struggle to expel heat, leading to reduced cooling and increased wear.
Tip: Keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves, dirt and clutter. Annual professional cleaning is recommended to maintain efficiency.
Prevention is the better option
Like any major piece of equipment, your air conditioning unit thrives on routine care. Regular maintenance not only keeps your system running efficiently but also helps avoid unexpected breakdowns that can disrupt your operations and leave your team sweltering.
If you’re unsure where to begin, consider setting up a maintenance agreement with a trusted HVAC provider or a facilities management company. These services often include scheduled inspections, filter replacements, performance checks and priority response in case of faults.
By staying ahead of small issues, you extend the life of your unit, improve indoor air quality and make sure your investment continues to serve you, come heatwave or cold snap.
