Whether you’ve just installed a brand-new system or you’ve relied on the same unit for years, one question always comes up: “Do I really need to get this serviced every year?”

In the UK, we don’t use our air conditioning quite as intensely as they do in the Mediterranean, so it’s tempting to skip a year of maintenance. However, at OJ Gas & Heating, we’ve seen how “skipping just one year” can lead to higher bills and unexpected breakdowns right when a heatwave hits.

Here is the honest truth about how often you should service your aircon to keep it running perfectly.

The Golden Rule: Once a Year

For most residential properties in the UK, a professional service once every 12 months is the industry standard.

Think of it like an MOT for your cooling system. Even if the unit seems to be blowing cold air, dust and grime build up on the internal components over the winter. An annual check ensures that everything from the refrigerant levels to the electrical connections is safe and efficient before the summer demand begins.

When is the best time to book?

We always recommend booking your service in Spring (March to May). By getting it done early, you beat the summer rush and ensure that if a part needs replacing, it’s fixed long before the temperature climbs.

When Should You Service It More Often?

While once a year is the baseline, some systems require a bi-annual check (every 6 months). You should consider a more frequent schedule if:

  • You use it for heating: If your unit is an air-source heat pump used for both cooling in summer and heating in winter, it’s working twice as hard. A service every 6 months is vital.
  • You have pets: Pet hair and dander clog filters much faster than a standard home environment.
  • Commercial settings: Offices, shops, or server rooms where the AC runs 24/7 need more regular attention to prevent burnout.

The DIY Tasks: What You Should Do Monthly

You don’t need an engineer for everything. To keep your system healthy between professional visits, you should perform these simple tasks:

  • Clean the filters: Depending on usage, slide out the filters and give them a gentle vacuum or wash every 4 to 8 weeks.
  • Clear the outdoor unit: Ensure that the external condenser isn’t buried under fallen leaves, weeds, or garden debris. It needs “room to breathe” to dissipate heat effectively.

3 Benefits of Consistent Servicing

Why bother with the “Yearly Rule”? It comes down to three main factors:

  1. Lower Electricity Bills: A dirty aircon has to work harder to pull in air, consuming up to 15% more electricity. Regular cleaning keeps your bills lean.
  2. Healthier Air: Aircon units can harbour mould and bacteria in the damp drainage trays. Professional sanitisation ensures the air you breathe is fresh, not musty.
  3. Warranty Protection: Many manufacturers (like Mitsubishi or Daikin) require proof of annual professional servicing to keep your multi-year warranty valid.