A well-maintained air conditioner cools better, uses less electricity and lasts longer. In Morocco, where the AC sometimes runs day and night in July and August, a few simple steps prevent a breakdown at the worst possible moment. Here is the Brico MIM guide to air conditioner maintenance.
Contents
1. Clean the indoor unit filters
The filters trap dust and hair. When clogged, they reduce airflow: the air conditioner strains, uses more power and cools less. During the cooling season, clean them about once a month, and more often in dusty or windy areas.
- Switch off the air conditioner and cut the power supply.
- Open the cover of the indoor unit and remove the filters.
- Vacuum off the dust, then rinse with lukewarm water, without harsh products.
- Let them dry completely in the shade (not in direct sunlight).
- Put the filters back properly before switching on again.
Brico MIM tip: do this cleaning in spring, before the first big heatwave. You will notice the difference in coolness right away.
2. Maintain the outdoor unit
- Clear the surroundings: no boxes, plants or objects blocking the airflow.
- Remove leaves and plastic bags stuck in the grille.
- Check that the unit is securely fixed and does not vibrate abnormally.
- If possible, shield it from direct sunlight without obstructing airflow.
3. Professional servicing
Once a year, ideally before summer, call in a refrigeration technician. They clean the heat exchanger and the condensate drain, and check the gas circuit and electrical connections. Any work on the refrigerant gas must always be done by a professional.
4. Common faults and solutions
| Problem | Likely cause | What to do? |
|---|---|---|
| The AC no longer cools | Dirty filters, blocked outdoor unit, low gas | Clean the filters and outdoor unit; if the problem persists, call a technician |
| Water leaking indoors | Drain pipe blocked or incorrectly sloped | Have it unblocked and check the pipe's slope |
| Bad smell | Dirty filters or heat exchanger, humidity | Clean the filters; full cleaning by a professional |
| Unusual noise | Loose mounting, object in the fan | Switch the unit off and have it checked |
| The circuit breaker trips | Undersized circuit or electrical fault | Have it checked by an electrician: the AC must have its own dedicated circuit |
5. Preparing a new installation properly
Many breakdowns stem from a poorly prepared installation. In a new build or a renovation:
- Plan a recessed air conditioner pre-installation box where the indoor unit will go: the refrigerant lines, drain and power supply come neatly through the wall.
- Plan a dedicated circuit for each air conditioner in your electrical panel.
- Choose the right capacity: read our guide to BTU and types of air conditioners.
Frequently asked questions
How often should air conditioner filters be cleaned?
About once a month during the cooling season, more often if the house is dusty or you have pets.
Can I recharge an air conditioner's gas myself?
No. Handling refrigerant requires specific equipment and must be done by a professional.
My air conditioner is old and uses a lot of power, what should I do?
A recent Inverter air conditioner uses significantly less than an old On/Off model. Discover our Carrier air conditioners.
Thinking of replacing your air conditioner?
Carrier wall-mounted, ducted, cassette and portable air conditioners.
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