Want to Save Money on AC Servicing? Here’s What You Need to Know!
Air conditioners are an essential part of our daily lives, keeping our homes and offices cool and comfortable. Regular AC servicing is very important to ensure better cooling, save electricity, and avoid costly repairs. Many people have questions before booking an AC service. This guide will answer all the commonly searched questions in a simple and easy-to-understand way.
1. When Should You Service Your AC?
Timely AC servicing keeps your home cool, saves money, and prevents sudden breakdowns – but when is the right time?
Signs That Your AC Needs Servicing
| Problem | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| AC is not cooling properly | Dirty filters or low gas level |
| Water leakage from AC | Clogged drain pipe or improper installation |
| Bad smell from AC | Fungus or dirt buildup in filters |
| AC making noise | Loose parts or motor issues |
| High electricity bill | AC running inefficiently |
| AC taking more time to cool | Blocked coils or low refrigerant level |
How Often Should You Service Your AC?
| Type of Use | Servicing Frequency |
|---|---|
| Home (normal use) | Once a year |
| Home (heavy use) | Twice a year |
| Office or commercial place | Every 3-4 months |
DIY Maintenance vs. Professional Servicing
| DIY (Self-Maintenance) | Professional Servicing |
|---|---|
| Cleaning air filters | Deep cleaning of coils |
| Checking for loose wires | Checking gas level |
| Keeping the area around AC clean | Inspecting and fixing any issues |
| Removing dust from vents | Checking electrical components |
2. Cost of AC Servicing in India
Knowing the cost of AC servicing helps you plan better and avoid overpaying for routine maintenance.
| Type of Service | Approximate Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Basic servicing | ₹300 - ₹500 |
| Deep cleaning | ₹800 - ₹1,500 |
| Gas refill | ₹1,500 - ₹3,500 |
| AC repair | ₹500 - ₹3,000 (depending on the issue) |
Factors That Affect the Cost
- Type of AC: Window AC is cheaper to service than Split AC.
- Location: Prices may be higher in metro cities.
- Service Provider: Brand service centers charge more than local technicians.
- Age of AC: Older ACs need more servicing and may cost more.
3. What Happens During AC Servicing?
Understanding the AC servicing process ensures you get the best value and proper maintenance for your unit.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Inspection | Checking AC parts for any problems |
| Cleaning Filters | Removing dust and dirt from filters |
| Cleaning Coils | Ensuring proper cooling efficiency |
| Checking Gas Level | Ensuring proper refrigerant levels |
| Drain Pipe Cleaning | Preventing water leakage |
| Final Testing | Checking if AC is working properly |
4. How to Choose the Right AC Service Provider?
Choosing the right AC service provider ensures quality work, fair pricing, and long-lasting performance.
Things to Check Before Hiring a Technician
| What to Check? | Why It’s Important? |
|---|---|
| Experience | More experienced technicians do better servicing |
| Customer Reviews | Helps in finding trusted service providers |
| Service Cost | Avoid overpaying for simple work |
| Warranty on Service | Ensures free repair if any problem occurs |
| Transparency in Pricing | No hidden charges |
Red Flags to Watch Out For
- Very low prices: It may mean low-quality service.
- No proper tools: Good technicians use the right tools.
- Asking for extra charges later: Always confirm the price before service.
5. Common AC Problems and Their Solutions
Knowing common AC problems and their solutions can help you fix minor issues and avoid costly repairs.
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| AC not cooling | Dirty filters, low gas | Clean filters, refill gas if needed |
| Water leakage | Clogged drain pipe | Clean drain pipe |
| Bad smell | Fungus in filters | Wash filters regularly |
| High electricity bill | AC working inefficiently | Regular servicing needed |
6. How to Prepare for an AC Service Appointment?
A little preparation before your AC service appointment ensures a smooth process and better results.
| Step | What to Do? |
|---|---|
| Clear the Area | Remove any obstacles near AC unit |
| Note Down Issues | Write down cooling, noise, or leakage problems |
| Check Warranty | If under warranty, confirm free service availability |
| Be Present During Servicing | To ensure all steps are followed properly |
7. How to Unlock an AC Remote?
If your AC remote is locked and unresponsive, a few simple steps can help you unlock it and regain control.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Check for Lock Symbol | Look for a lock icon on display |
| Press Lock Button | Hold it for 3-5 seconds |
| Try Mode/Temp Buttons | Some remotes unlock by pressing these together |
| Remove Batteries | Reset the remote by removing and reinserting batteries |
Brand-Specific Unlocking Methods
| Brand | Unlocking Method |
|---|---|
| Daikin | Hold Mode button for a few seconds |
| LG & Samsung | Hold Temperature Up & Down buttons together |
| Carrier & Hitachi | Look for a dedicated Lock button |
8. How to Turn On an AC Without a Remote?
Lost or broken AC remote? Don't worry! Here are simple ways to turn on your AC without it.
| Method | How to Do It? |
|---|---|
| Power Button on AC Unit | Open front panel and press ON/OFF button |
| Use a Universal Remote | Buy and set up a universal AC remote |
| Mobile App (for Smart ACs) | Install AC brand’s mobile app and connect via WiFi |
| Smart Plug/Home Assistant | Use Alexa, Google Assistant, or a smart plug |
9. FAQs About AC Servicing
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How long does AC servicing take? | Basic: 30-45 min, Deep cleaning: 1-2 hours |
| Can I clean my AC filters myself? | Yes, clean every 2-4 weeks |
| How long does an AC last with proper servicing? | 10-15 years |
| When to repair vs. service an AC? | If AC is working but not cooling, service it. If it’s not turning on, repair is needed. |
Conclusion
Regular AC servicing is very important to ensure proper cooling, lower electricity bills, and increase the lifespan of your AC. This guide provides detailed answers to common questions related to AC servicing in India. By following these expert tips, you can avoid expensive repairs and keep your AC running smoothly for years!