As summer approaches, temperatures can soar, making a reliable air conditioning system essential for maintaining comfort. However, simply having an AC unit isn’t enough; ensuring it runs efficiently requires proper preparation and maintenance. A well-maintained system not only provides effective cooling but also reduces energy costs and prevents unexpected breakdowns during the hottest months.
Steps to get your system ready for peak performance
If you own a home or manage a business, preparing your air conditioning maintenance London for the summer heatwave is crucial. In this guide, we’ll cover the essential steps to prepare your system for peak performance, helping you avoid discomfort and high energy bills.
1. Schedule a Professional AC Inspection
Before the summer heatwave begins, it’s essential to have a professional technician inspect your AC unit. Regular servicing ensures that your system operates at peak efficiency and prevents minor issues from turning into costly repairs.
- A professional will check refrigerant levels, clean the coils, and inspect electrical components.
- Routine maintenance extends the lifespan of your commercial air conditioning installation and keeps it running smoothly.
- Identifying potential problems early reduces the risk of mid-summer breakdowns.
- Technicians ensure electrical connections are safe and secure.
- A well-maintained system enhances overall energy efficiency and cooling performance.
2. Clean or Replace Air Filters
Dirty air filters can reduce airflow and strain your AC unit, leading to higher energy consumption.
- Replace or clean air filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage and indoor air quality.
- A clean filter improves efficiency and enhances indoor air quality.
- Dirty filters contribute to poor ventilation and circulation.
- Changing filters regularly extends the lifespan of the AC unit.
3. Check the Thermostat Settings
Upgrading to a smart thermostat can enhance efficiency and help save on cooling costs.
- Ensure the thermostat is set to an optimal temperature (around 24°C-26°C) to balance comfort and energy savings.
- Programmable thermostats allow automatic temperature adjustments based on occupancy.
- If you notice temperature inconsistencies, recalibrate or replace your thermostat.
- Smart thermostats help reduce energy waste during unoccupied hours.
- Ensure the thermostat is positioned away from heat sources to prevent false readings.
4. Inspect and Clean the Outdoor Unit
The outdoor condenser unit is exposed to the elements and can accumulate dust, leaves, and debris. Keeping it clean ensures maximum airflow and efficiency.
- Remove any obstructions around the condenser to allow proper heat dissipation.
- Use a soft brush or low-pressure hose to clean the unit’s coils.
- Check for any visible signs of damage or wear on the unit.
- Ensure adequate spacing around the unit for optimal airflow.
- Protect the outdoor unit from direct sunlight with shading solutions if necessary.
5. Test the Cooling Performance
Run your AC before peak summer temperatures to ensure it cools effectively.
- Let the system run for at least 15-20 minutes and observe how well it maintains the set temperature.
- Check for uneven cooling or weak airflow in different rooms.
- If cooling performance is lacking, it may indicate refrigerant leaks or compressor issues.
- Ensure vents and ducts are clean and free from obstructions.
- Listen for unusual noises that may indicate mechanical issues.
6. Seal Air Leaks and Improve Insulation
Cool air can escape through poorly sealed windows, doors, and ductwork, reducing your AC’s effectiveness.
- Seal gaps and cracks to prevent cool air from escaping.
- Insulate ducts to reduce energy loss and maintain efficient cooling.
- Consider blackout curtains or reflective window films to block excess heat.
- Draught-proofing windows and doors can further enhance efficiency.
7. Ensure Proper Ventilation
Adequate ventilation is essential for maintaining indoor air quality and preventing excess humidity.
- Keep vents unobstructed to allow proper air circulation.
- Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to reduce indoor heat buildup.
- Consider integrating ventilation systems with your air conditioning installation in London for improved air quality.
- Cross-ventilation can improve cooling efficiency in multi-room spaces.
- Regular duct cleaning ensures improved airflow.
8. Inspect and Clean Air Ducts
Over time, dust, debris, and allergens accumulate in air ducts, reducing airflow and decreasing indoor air quality. Clogged ducts force your AC to work harder, leading to increased energy consumption.
- Have your ductwork inspected for blockages or leaks.
- Schedule professional duct cleaning to improve efficiency.
- Ensure all vents are open and unobstructed for proper air circulation.
- Clean ducts help prevent dust and allergen buildup.
- Leaky ducts can significantly increase cooling costs.
9. Check Refrigerant Levels
Signs of low refrigerant include warm air blowing from vents and ice buildup on coils.
- A technician can inspect for leaks and recharge refrigerant if necessary.
- Running an AC with insufficient refrigerant can permanently damage the system.
- Proper refrigerant levels help maintain peak performance during extreme heat.
- A well-balanced refrigerant charge optimises cooling cycles.
- Low refrigerant often indicates underlying system issues.
10. Ensure Electrical Connections Are Secure
Loose or damaged electrical connections can cause your AC to shut down unexpectedly or create fire hazards.
- Inspect wiring for fraying, burn marks, or loose connections.
- A professional technician can tighten and test connections to prevent electrical failures.
- Faulty wiring can affect the thermostat, compressor, and other AC components.
- Poor connections may result in frequent system shutdowns.
- Regular electrical maintenance enhances AC safety and longevity.
11. Consider a Backup Cooling Solution
During heatwaves, even the best-maintained AC units can be overworked. A secondary cooling method can help maintain comfort.
- Ceiling fans improve air circulation, reducing strain on the AC.
- Portable air conditioners or evaporative coolers can supplement cooling in high-traffic areas.
- Reducing indoor heat sources, such as ovens and excessive lighting, can lower cooling demand.
- Dehumidifiers can assist in improving comfort levels.
- Night-time cooling strategies, such as opening windows, can reduce AC reliance.
12. Upgrade an Aging System
If your AC system is over 10-15 years old, upgrading to a more energy-efficient unit can significantly improve performance and reduce energy bills.
- Newer models have advanced features such as variable speed motors and improved energy ratings.
- Investing in an energy-efficient model can lead to long-term cost savings.
- Modern AC units use eco-friendly refrigerants, reducing environmental impact.
- A professional assessment can help determine whether your current commercial air conditioning repair needs replacement.
- Smart AC units offer remote control and better automation for energy management.
Energy Efficiency Comparison: Well-Maintained vs. Poorly Maintained AC Units
| Condition of AC Unit | Cooling Efficiency | Energy Consumption | Lifespan | Risk of Breakdown |
| Well-Maintained | High (Consistent cooling performance) | Optimised, reducing electricity bills | 12-15 years | Low |
| Poorly Maintained | Low (Uneven cooling, weak airflow) | Increased energy usage, leading to higher costs | 7-10 years | High |
Disclaimer: Data is based on industry estimates; actual performance may vary depending on usage and maintenance frequency.
Conclusion
Preparing your air conditioning installation in London for the summer heatwave ensures that it runs efficiently, providing maximum comfort while keeping energy costs under control. Regular maintenance, cleaning, and system upgrades can help you avoid sudden breakdowns and maintain a cool indoor environment throughout the hottest months.
If you need expert servicing or are considering a commercial air conditioning installation, trust Hamiltonaircon to provide reliable solutions tailored to your needs. Stay cool and stress-free this summer with a well-prepared AC system.
Author Bio: Matthew Connery
Matthew Connery is the Director of Hamilton Air Conditioning in London. He is a skilled Business Strategist who delivers energy-efficient and cost-saving solutions to commercial and domestic clients from leading air conditioning brands.