The short answer
- Homes: once a year, ideally in spring before the warm weather arrives.
- Offices and shops: every six to twelve months, depending on how hard the system works.
- Restaurants, kitchens, gyms and server rooms: every six months, because grease, dust and long running hours clog systems faster.
Why servicing matters
- Efficiency. Blocked filters and dirty coils make the system work harder, which means higher electricity bills and weaker cooling.
- Clean air. Indoor units collect dust, and moisture inside can encourage mould and bacteria. A musty smell when the unit starts is a common sign it needs a clean.
- Warranty. Most manufacturers require regular servicing to keep the warranty valid.
- Catching faults early. A service spots small problems, such as a slow refrigerant leak or a blocked drain, before they turn into costly breakdowns.
What happens at a service
- Filters, coils and the fan cleaned and disinfected
- Condensate drain and pump cleared and tested
- Refrigerant pressures and temperatures checked
- Outdoor unit, fixings and electrical connections inspected
- Controls and every operating mode tested
- A written report of anything that needs attention
What the law says
Under the F-Gas Regulations, systems containing 5 tonnes CO2 equivalent or more of refrigerant must have regular leak checks by a certified engineer, and the operator must keep records. Larger systems need checking more often. Most single-room home systems hold far less refrigerant than this, so for homeowners servicing is strongly recommended rather than a legal requirement. Businesses with larger or multiple systems should check where they stand; we can help with that. See our commercial air conditioning page.
What you can do between services
- Rinse or vacuum the indoor filters every few weeks when the system is in heavy use.
- Keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves, plants and stored items.
- Call us if you notice water dripping, new noises, a smell or an error code.
How much does a service cost?
Our annual service starts from £85 for the first indoor unit and £40 for each extra unit on the same visit, with no VAT to add. We service all major brands, whoever installed them. Book a service or see our servicing and repairs page.