As August draws to a close, the days gradually begin to shorten, and although the heat persists, we already begin to think about the restart, school, work... and even the changing climate. It's the ideal time to start preparing your air conditioning system for the transition to the autumn season. This intermediate phase is often overlooked, but it is actually crucial to ensure the efficiency, cleanliness, and longevity of your air conditioner, as well as preventing any malfunctions in the following months.
Why perform maintenance after the summer
During the summer, your air conditioner works at full capacity: hours and hours of daily operation, filters that accumulate dust, and constant humidity in the internal units. All of this can compromise the efficiency of the appliance if not addressed with proper maintenance. Preparing the system for the seasonal shutdown means ensuring a clean, safe system that's ready to restart, whether you want to use it in heating mode or reactivate it the following season.
Deep cleaning of filters and units
The first thing to do is clean the filters. Even if you cleaned them frequently during the summer, it's a good idea to do a more thorough cleaning at the end of the season, perhaps with the help of specific products for sanitizing internal units. A dirty filter not only reduces air quality, but also forces the air conditioner to work harder, increasing consumption and shortening the compressor's life.
It's also advisable to clean the grills and vents, which can accumulate dust or mold, especially in humid environments. If you have access to the outdoor unit, check for debris, leaves, or dust, and remove any obstructions to maintain proper ventilation.
For these operations, you can rely on professional products such as those distributed by Zep, also available at Clima Convenienza, ideal for a deep and safe cleaning.
Checking the refrigerant gas and performance
Even if you don't notice any obvious problems, it can be useful to check whether the air conditioner is still operating at maximum efficiency. A slight drop in performance could indicate a refrigerant gas leak or excessive dirt buildup in the internal components. Preventive maintenance, performed by a specialized technician, may include:
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Checking the refrigerant gas pressure.
- Checking the heat exchange between the units.
- Testing the correct operation of the heating mode (if present).
- Possible professional sanitization with antibacterial and fungicidal sprays.
- Checking the heat exchange between the units.
Should I turn off or keep the air conditioner on?
If you plan to leave the air conditioner alone for several months, it is advisable to turn it off completely. The appliance, perhaps even unplugging it from the power supply to avoid standby consumption. However, if the model has a heating function, as is the case with many inverter air conditioners, it is advisable to test it during these transitional months. This way, you can verify that everything is working properly before the real cold weather hits, avoiding unpleasant surprises in October or November.
Protect the outdoor unit
Finally, if the outdoor unit is located in areas exposed to bad weather or foliage (such as balconies or gardens), it is useful to protect it with breathable covers that prevent the accumulation of dirt without hindering air circulation. This precaution isn't mandatory, but it can make a difference in keeping your system in perfect condition for the following year.
Preparing your air conditioner for the change of season is a simple but strategic step. It means optimizing the system's performance, extending its lifespan, saving on future maintenance, and ensuring clean air and comfort for the whole family. It doesn't take much: a thorough cleaning, a few technical checks, and the use of suitable products like those offered by Zep, and your system will be ready to face any season.