Air Conditioner Preventive Maintenance: How We Do It
Our Service Includes
- Complete system inspection: Indoor and outdoor units thoroughly examined
- Filter cleaning/replacement: Ensures optimal airflow and air quality
- Coil cleaning: Both evaporator and condenser coils professionally cleaned
- Refrigerant level check: Pressure testing and adjustment if needed
- Electrical component testing: All connections, capacitors, and controls verified
- Drainage system clearing: Condensate lines flushed and inspected
- Performance measurement: Temperature differential and efficiency testing
- Detailed service report: Written documentation of findings and recommendations
Preventive maintenance is the cornerstone of reliable air conditioner performance and longevity. Our comprehensive maintenance approach doesn’t just check boxes on a service list; we systematically evaluate every component that affects your cooling system’s efficiency, reliability, and lifespan. This proactive strategy catches small issues before they become expensive repairs while ensuring your AC operates at peak efficiency throughout Nairobi’s warm climate.
Initial System Assessment
Our maintenance process begins with a thorough visual inspection of both indoor and outdoor units. We examine the outdoor condenser for physical damage, checking for bent fins, loose panels, or debris accumulation that restricts airflow. The area surrounding the unit is inspected to ensure adequate clearance, as vegetation growth or stored items can impede air circulation and reduce efficiency. Inside, we assess the evaporator unit’s condition, looking for signs of moisture problems, unusual corrosion, or any indication of refrigerant leaks.
Before touching any components, we test the thermostat’s accuracy and responsiveness. An improperly calibrated thermostat wastes energy and prevents comfortable temperature control. We verify that the thermostat communicates correctly with the AC unit and that all programming functions work as intended.
Electrical System Inspection
The electrical components receive careful attention as they’re critical to safe, reliable operation. We begin by shutting down power and inspecting all wire connections for tightness, corrosion, or heat damage. Loose connections create resistance that generates heat, potentially causing fires or component failure. Using specialized meters, we test capacitors that help motors start and run efficiently, as these components frequently degrade over time. Voltage and amperage readings are taken at various points and compared against manufacturer specifications to identify developing electrical problems.
Contactors and relays that control major components are examined for pitting or wear on their contact surfaces. We clean these components when possible or recommend replacement if deterioration has progressed too far. The control board is inspected for signs of overheating, burnt components, or corrosion that might indicate future failure.
Cleaning and Airflow Optimization
Proper airflow is essential for efficient cooling, and our maintenance includes comprehensive cleaning procedures. Air filters are removed and either cleaned or replaced depending on their type and condition. We recommend filter service every one to three months depending on your environment, but verify actual condition during maintenance visits.
The evaporator coil, hidden inside your indoor unit, accumulates dust and debris that insulates the coil and prevents efficient heat absorption. We carefully clean this coil using specialized foaming cleaners that penetrate between fins without bending them. The outdoor condenser coil faces even harsher conditions with exposure to dust, pollen, and airborne debris. We use high-pressure water or coil-specific cleaners to remove accumulated buildup, restoring the coil’s ability to reject heat effectively.
Fan blades on both indoor and outdoor units are cleaned and checked for balance. Bent or damaged blades create vibration and noise while reducing airflow. We also verify that fan motors operate smoothly without unusual noise or excessive heat.
Refrigerant and Drainage Systems
Refrigerant levels are checked by measuring system pressures under operating conditions and comparing them to specifications for your unit’s refrigerant type and ambient temperature. Low refrigerant indicates a leak that requires detection and repair, while overcharging reduces efficiency and can damage the compressor. We also inspect all accessible refrigerant line connections for signs of leakage.
The condensate drainage system must flow freely to prevent water damage and maintain proper humidity control. We flush drain lines with specialized cleaning solutions that remove algae and biofilm buildup, then verify that water flows properly from the drain pan through the entire drainage path. A clogged drain can cause significant water damage to your property and create conditions for mold growth.
Performance Testing and Documentation
After completing all service procedures, we run the system through complete cooling cycles while measuring performance. Temperature differential between supply and return air is measured and compared to expected values, typically between 15-20 degrees Celsius for properly functioning systems. We monitor how quickly the system reaches set temperatures and verify that all operating modes function correctly.
Every maintenance visit concludes with a detailed service report documenting our findings, work performed, and any recommendations for repairs or improvements. This documentation helps track your system’s condition over time and provides valuable information for making informed decisions about repairs or replacement. We believe transparent communication about your AC’s health empowers you to maintain comfortable, efficient cooling for years to come.
Our preventive maintenance service typically takes 90 minutes to two hours, a small investment that significantly extends equipment life, prevents costly emergency repairs, and keeps your energy bills in check through peak efficiency operation.
