To answer this question, it is important to have the “Air conditioning system use and maintenance manual” available when you have it, since the specific time will be specified depending on the model or type of system installed. The periodicities are subject to the use of the building, the type of machines installed and the nominal power (maximum power demanded by the equipment under normal conditions of use). According to the RITE (Regulation for Thermal Installations in Buildings), air conditioning with a nominal useful power of up to 70 KW with continuous remote inspection must be checked at least annually, while that with a power of less than 12 KW can be extended up to two years, provided that the conditions of safety and energy efficiency are guaranteed. In any case, it is essential to take into account the specifications of the manufacturers of the air conditioners.

This task must be carried out by a qualified professional, since any error would put the operation of the equipment at risk. These checks should thoroughly inspect the motor, fan, drain line, coils, operating pressures and temperatures, supply and return lines, refrigerant levels, and connections.

In the event that your air conditioning system gives problems, you should try to solve it as soon as possible, not wait for a period of greater usage or for a full year to pass, as this could damage the system and be more difficult to fix, or cause an irreversible problem.

These are some indications that your air conditioning is not working properly.

• It blows hot air: this can be for any number of reasons, from incorrect thermostat settings, blockage of the air condenser, or refrigerant leaks, immediate repair is essential.
• Weak airflow coming out of the vents: This is usually caused by a faulty fan or some problem in the ducts or diffusion. Firstly the duct should be cleaned and that alone should work, if the problem persists it is best to contact a professional.
• It turns off abruptly: this indicates the existence of problems in the control system, it may be broken or it may not be able to accurately measure temperature, pressure and consumption. In either case, you will need a technician to review it and find the best solution.

Finally, it is also important to verify the tightness of the refrigerant circuit as stated in RD115/2017 in its section III in relation to the handling of fluorinated gases. This depends on its use, in fact, the most frequent cause of the equipment not cooling is that it has run out of gas.

When this happens, you should contact a professional who has a fluorinated gas handling certificate (F-Gas Certification). Now that you know how often you have to check your air conditioning system and how to do it, surely you will do everything possible to make your equipment more energy efficient and thus be able to extend its useful life.