Before You Turn On Your AC This Summer, Do These 5 Things to Get Better Cooling

The transition from the pleasant spring to the scorching 40°C+ Indian summer is rapid. To ensure your AC doesn’t give up when you need it most, follow this step-by-step preparation guide.

1. Why Pre-Summer Maintenance is Non-Negotiable

In India, dust and pollution are the biggest enemies of electrical appliances. During the off-season, your AC unit becomes a magnet for dust, pigeon droppings (in outdoor units), and even spider webs.

Energy Efficiency: A clean AC consumes up to 15-20% less electricity.
Air Quality: Clogged filters circulate bacteria and allergens.
Longevity: Pre-checks prevent the compressor from overheating, extending the unit’s life by years.

2. Step-by-Step DIY Cleaning Requirements

You don’t always need a technician for basic cleaning. Here is what you can do yourself:

A. The Filter Flush

The indoor unit’s filters are the first line of defense.

Action: Open the front panel of your Split or Window AC. Slide out the mesh filters.
Cleaning: Use a vacuum cleaner to remove loose dust, then wash them under a tap with lukewarm water and mild soap.
Important: Let them dry completely in the shade before reinstalling. Never run the AC without filters.

B. Evaporator Coil Dusting

Behind the filters lie the blue-colored cooling fins (evaporator coils).

Action: Use a soft-bristle brush or a dedicated “fin comb” to gently brush away dust. You can use a vacuum cleaner to either suck or blow away dust.
Caution: These fins are very delicate. Do not use a high-pressure water jet inside the house.

C. Clearing the Outdoor Unit (Condenser)

The outdoor unit (ODU) bears the brunt of Indian weather.

Clearance: Ensure there is at least 2 feet of open space around the ODU. Remove any bird nests, dry leaves, or plastic bags stuck in the fan.
Gentle Wash: Use a garden hose (low pressure) to spray water on the back of the unit to clear out mud and grime. Avoid spraying water directly into the electrical box.

3. Critical Mechanical & Electrical Checks

Before the first startup, perform these “sanity checks”:

Remote Control: Check if the batteries have leaked. Replace them with fresh ones to avoid “dead remote” frustration.
Drainage Line: Check the water outlet pipe for blockages. In India, small insects often build nests inside these pipes, causing water to leak inside your room.
Stabilizer Check: Ensure your voltage stabilizer (if using one) is showing a green “Output” light. Fluctuating voltages are the #1 cause of PCB failure in Indian homes.
Electrical Plug: Look for any burn marks on the 16A plug or socket. Loose connections can lead to melting or fire hazards.

4. Professional Servicing: When to Call the Experts

While DIY is great, a professional “Jet Service” or “Power Wash” is recommended once a year. A technician will check for:

Refrigerant (Gas) Levels: If the gas pressure is low, the AC will run but won’t cool, leading to a massive electricity bill.
Amperage Test: Professionals measure if the compressor is drawing the correct amount of current.
Capacitor Health: A weak capacitor often leads to the “fan running but no cooling” issue.

5. Pro-Tips for Maximum Cooling Efficiency

Once your AC is running, follow these “India-specific” hacks to stay cool without burning a hole in your pocket:

The 24°C Rule: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) recommends 24°C as the ideal temperature. Every degree you increase saves about 6% electricity.
Ceiling Fan Synergy: Run your ceiling fan at a low speed along with the AC. It helps circulate the cool air faster, allowing you to set the AC at a higher temperature.
Sun Block: Use blackout curtains. In India, “Heat Gain” through windows accounts for nearly 30% of the cooling load.
The “Timer” Trick: Set a timer to switch off the AC at 4:00 AM. Usually, the room stays cool enough until 7:00 AM, saving 3 hours of power.

6. Common Precautions & Safety Warnings

Never use a pressure washer on the indoor unit; it can damage the sensitive electronics (PCB).
Avoid keeping heat-generating appliances like TVs or Lamps near the AC thermostat.
Smell Check: If you smell something “metallic” or “burning” upon switching it on, turn it off immediately and call a technician. This often indicates a short circuit or a grounded compressor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How often should I clean the AC filters during summer? In dusty Indian cities, it is best to clean filters every 15 days. If you live near a construction site or a main road, check them weekly.

Q2. Why is my AC blowing air but not cooling? This is usually due to three reasons: a dirty outdoor unit, a faulty capacitor, or low refrigerant gas. A professional check-up is needed.

Q3. Is it normal for the outdoor unit to make a loud noise? A slight hum is normal. However, if there is a loud “clanking” or “vibrating” sound, the fan blade might be loose or the compressor mounting may have worn out.

Q4. Does “Dry Mode” save electricity? Dry Mode is meant for the monsoon season to remove humidity. During peak dry summer, use “Cool Mode” for better results.

Q5. Should I cover my outdoor unit when not in use? Yes, during winters, a breathable cover helps. However, remove it completely before switching on the AC in summer to prevent the compressor from bursting due to overheating.

Final Verdict: A little effort today can save you from a “sweaty nightmare” in May. Spend 30 minutes on these checks this weekend, or book a professional service early before the peak season rush begins and service rates spike!