Home aircon care: when to service and what to ask

Common signs include weak cooling, water dripping, unusual noise, an odour or a higher electricity bill. Clean or replace filters according to your unit's guidance, but do not open electrical parts yourself.

When booking a service, share the number of units, model if known, symptoms, property type and access details. Ask whether the quote covers cleaning, gas checks, drainage, parts and any extra repair work.

After servicing, test cooling and drainage. Keep the invoice so you know the last service date and any parts that were changed.

Before accepting a quote, ask the provider to separate diagnosis, labour, consumables and replacement parts. Note the indoor and outdoor unit condition, drainage route and any prior repairs. After the visit, keep the service record and test cooling, drainage and the circuit breaker before the technician leaves.