AC Servicing: When to Do It, What Gets Checked and What Affects the Price
In Cyprus the air conditioner runs almost non-stop all summer, and dust and humidity wear it out quickly. Regular servicing means better cooling and a lower electricity bill. This guide covers when to service, what is done and what affects the cost.
When should the AC be serviced?
The best time is spring, before the heat arrives: in midsummer technicians are fully booked and waiting in the heat with a broken unit is hard. If you also use the unit for heating in winter, a second check in autumn is a good idea.
During heavy use you can clean the indoor filter yourself every two to four weeks: take it out, rinse it with lukewarm water, let it dry in the shade and put it back.
What does a service include?
In a thorough service the technician usually checks:
- Indoor filters and coil (evaporator) cleaning, plus disinfection against odours
- Cleaning dust and dirt off the outdoor coil (condenser)
- Clearing the condensate drain line — the most common reason for dripping water
- Measuring refrigerant pressure and pipe temperatures
- Checking electrical connections, the remote and fan operation
Why does the refrigerant run low?
Refrigerant is not consumed like fuel; it circulates in a sealed circuit. If it is low, there is a leak somewhere. Topping up without finding and fixing the leak only lasts a short while.
Weak cooling, ice on the pipes or indoor unit, and an outdoor unit that never switches off are common signs of low refrigerant.
What affects the price?
The technician quotes after seeing the unit; the main factors are:
- Number and capacity (BTU) of the units
- Where the outdoor unit sits — high up or hard to reach takes longer
- Whether a refrigerant top-up or leak repair is needed, and the refrigerant type
- Whether it is cleaning only or parts need replacing (fan motor, board, capacitor)
Frequently asked questions
How often should an AC be serviced?
For a unit used only in summer, one service a year before the hot season is enough in most homes. If you also heat with it or live somewhere dusty, twice a year is recommended.
Why is my AC dripping water?
Most often a blocked condensate drain line or a dirty coil. A service clears the line and cleans the coil; if it continues, the installation slope is checked.
Does every service need a refrigerant top-up?
No. Refrigerant is only added when it is low, and low refrigerant means a leak that should be found first.