How Often Do You Need an Aircon Chemical Overhaul?

In general, a chemical overhaul should be done once every 1-2 years for most air conditioners. Like all appliances, aircon requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and prolong its lifespan. One of the key aspects of air conditioner maintenance is the chemical overhaul. It involves a thorough cleaning and servicing of the internal components of the unit. Let’s dive deep to learn more about the frequency of aircon chemical overhaul.

 

What Is an Aircon Chemical Overhaul?

An aircon chemical overhaul is a deep cleaning process that goes beyond the usual filter and coil cleaning. During this service, the internal components such as the evaporator coil, condenser coil, fan, and drainage system are cleaned using specialized chemicals. These chemicals can break down stubborn dirt, grime, and mold. Over time, aircon components can become clogged with dust and debris. It will affect the performance of the air conditioner. Hence, an aircon chemical overhaul becomes essential.

The overhaul typically involves:

• Chemical cleaning: A cleaning solution is applied to remove grime and dirt.
• Disinfection: The system is sanitized to kill bacteria, fungi, and mold.
• Inspection and lubrication: Key components are checked for wear and tear and lubricated if necessary.

This thorough cleaning helps the air conditioner run efficiently, improving air quality and energy consumption.

 

Factors That Determine the Frequency of an Aircon Chemical Overhaul

Several factors influence how often you need to schedule an aircon chemical overhaul. Let’s take a closer look at these factors:

1. Usage Frequency

The more often you use your air conditioner, the more frequently it will need a chemical overhaul. If you use your air conditioner for extended hours daily, the internal components accumulate dirt, dust, and moisture more quickly. For instance, a commercial air conditioner may require more frequent maintenance than one that’s used occasionally.

2. Environment

Your environment plays a big role in determining how quickly your air conditioner accumulates dust and debris. For instance, air conditioners in dusty areas, near construction sites, or in homes with pets tend to need more frequent cleaning. Humid areas grow mold quickly, which can block airflow and affect the cooling capacity of the unit. Hence, it requires more frequent chemical overhauls.

3. Air Quality

If you live in an area with poor air quality, where pollutants and allergens are high, your air conditioner will work harder to filter the air, which can result in dirt buildup. This buildup can block airflow, causing the air conditioner to consume more energy and perform less efficiently.

4. Age of the Unit

Older air conditioning units may accumulate dirt and grime more quickly due to wear and tear on the system. For such units, more frequent chemical overhauls might be needed to maintain their efficiency.

 

Recommended Frequency for Aircon Chemical Overhaul

In general, a chemical overhaul should be done once every 1-2 years for most air conditioners. However, depending on the factors mentioned above, this frequency can vary.

• For light usage (around 6 hours or less per day): An overhaul every 18-24 months should suffice.
• For moderate usage (6-12 hours per day): Aim for an overhaul every 12-18 months.
• For heavy usage (over 12 hours per day): An annual chemical overhaul is recommended.

Signs That Your Air Conditioner Needs a Chemical Overhaul

Below are a few key signs that indicate your air conditioner may need an overhaul sooner than planned:

Poor Airflow: If the airflow from your air conditioner is weak or inconsistent, it could be due to a clogged evaporator or condenser coils.

Unpleasant Odors: A musty or moldy smell could mean there’s mold or bacteria buildup inside the unit. It can be removed during a chemical overhaul.

Reduced Cooling Performance: If your air conditioner isn’t cooling the room as effectively as it used to, dirt and debris inside the system might be the cause.

Increased Energy Bills: A dirty air conditioner has to work harder to cool the room. It can lead to higher energy consumption and rising electricity bills.

Water Leakage: If you notice water unusual leakage around your air conditioner, it may be due to a blocked drainage system. You can get rid of it with a chemical overhaul.

 

 

Conclusion

A chemical overhaul is an essential measure for air conditioner maintenance. It will ensure your unit runs at its peak performance. While the general recommendation is to schedule a chemical overhaul every 1-2 years, the actual frequency will depend on usage, environment, and other factors. If you notice any signs of poor performance or airflow issues, it’s best to get your air conditioner serviced sooner. Regular chemical overhauls will improve the efficiency and lifespan of your unit and ensure a healthier air quality for you and your family.