Many people find their newly bought air conditioners (ACs) breaking down sooner than expected. This premature damage usually stems from harmful habits rather than poor product quality. Misuse and lack of proper maintenance significantly shorten the lifespan of an AC unit.
One major cause is neglecting to clean the AC filter regularly. Dust accumulation clogs the filter and restricts airflow. When airflow is limited, the AC unit struggles harder to cool the room. This extra workload makes components wear out faster. Experts recommend cleaning the filter every 1-2 months. If you use the AC daily or live in a dusty environment, increase the cleaning frequency accordingly.
Placing the outdoor unit in a cramped or poorly ventilated space also harms the AC. The outdoor unit releases heat, which needs to disperse freely. When trapped, heat causes the unit to overheat and damages its components. Position the outdoor unit in a location with good air circulation. Avoid covering it or placing objects that block airflow to allow heat to escape efficiently.
Another damaging habit is running the AC continuously without breaks. While modern ACs are built for extended use, constant operation overworks the compressor. The compressor is the most critical component responsible for cooling. Continuous strain causes it to wear out and eventually fail. Switching off the AC when the room reaches a comfortable temperature or when the area is unoccupied helps prolong its lifespan and reduce electricity bills.
Keeping heat-generating devices near the AC unit adds unnecessary burden. Items like laptops, lamps, or direct sunlight hitting the indoor unit force the AC to work harder. This extra heat exposure increases energy consumption and accelerates wear on AC parts. Locate the AC away from these heat sources and ensure the indoor unit is shielded from direct sunlight for optimal performance.
Frequently turning the AC on and off within short intervals can severely damage the compressor. Each restart requires the compressor to work hard to bring the temperature down quickly. Repeating this cycle shortens its operational life. It is better to let the AC run continuously for a longer period rather than switching it off and on repeatedly.
To help keep your AC in good condition, perform regular servicing every six months. Professional technicians check and refill refrigerant (freon), inspect for leaks, and clean the condenser coils. This routine maintenance is vital to maintaining efficient cooling and avoiding costly repairs. Additionally, setting the temperature between 24-26°C ($75–79°F) balances comfort, energy savings, and machine longevity. Ensuring the drainage system is clear prevents water leaks that can damage your AC and surroundings.
Here is a summary of common bad habits and maintenance tips that impact AC durability:
1. Rarely cleaning the filter, leading to dust build-up.
2. Placing the outdoor unit in confined or obstructed spaces.
3. Operating the AC continuously without breaks.
4. Placing heat sources or exposing units to direct sunlight.
5. Frequently switching the AC on and off in short bursts.
6. Skipping routine maintenance checks and cleaning.
Premature AC failure is rarely due to poor quality but mostly caused by user habits. By avoiding these mistakes and performing simple, regular upkeep, the lifespan of your AC will improve significantly. Protecting this investment ensures long-term comfort and reduces the need for expensive repairs later on.
