Air conditioning units in southern Spain are often used for cooling in summer, heating in winter and dehumidifying during damp weather. That amount of use means small faults should be dealt with early.
Here are five signs that a system needs a professional service.
1. Low airflow
If the air is not coming out as strongly as usual, start with the filters. Blocked filters make the unit work harder and reduce cooling.
If cleaning the filters does not improve airflow, the coil, fan or ducting may need attention.
2. Poor cooling or heating
A unit that runs but does not cool or heat properly may have dirty coils, restricted airflow, a sensor fault, a refrigerant issue or a failing component.
Do not keep turning the temperature lower to force a result. Get the system checked before the fault becomes more expensive.
3. Short cycling
Short cycling means the unit switches on and off without completing a normal run. This wastes electricity and puts strain on the compressor.
It can be caused by poor sizing, dirty filters, sensor faults, electrical problems or refrigerant issues.
4. New or unusual noises
Rattling, buzzing, grinding or squealing noises should not be ignored. A loose casing is minor; a failing fan motor or compressor is not.
Switch the unit off if the noise is sudden or severe.
5. Higher electricity bills
If your bill rises but your usage has not changed, the unit may be working harder than it should. Dirty filters, poor airflow, failing parts and refrigerant faults all increase running costs.
An annual service helps keep the unit clean, efficient and ready for the months when you need it most.