Central Air Conditioners – this is made up of an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. You can wash or change the air filter in the indoor unit according to its type. Wire filters can be washed, glass fibre filters have to be replaced. You should do this monthly during the hot season in order to maintain maximum performance and air quality.

You should also clean any dust or grease from the fan blades. Lightly oil the fan shaft and any bearings too. If your unit is belt driven make sure that the belt is not worn and that it is neither too tight nor too loose, which means that there should be some give, but that it should not be so free as to slip. Similar to a car’s fan belt. Degrease and cleanse the coil of tubing.

The outside system should be treated in the same way as the inside box, but you ought to also clear any undergrowth or rubbish from around it to permit an unobstructed airflow. If it is in direct sunlight while in operation, put up a lean-to to give it shade and shelter from rain and snow in the winter.

Split Air Conditioning Systems – the outdoor component should be serviced as above, but the indoor air handler is different as there is no fan pushing air through a structure of ducts. At least once a year, take out the internal filter and wash it or clean it according to the manufacturer’s handbook. If you do this often enough, you will not have to clean the coil.

If you miss a few maintenance sessions, wash the coil as above. Service the outside box as above as well.

Room Air Conditioners – take out the grille and clean or replace the filter at least once every summer. Filters can usually be washed three times and then should be replaced. If you fail to do this, you will have to clean the coil, as above, you can use a air conditioning service for this. In the winter, cover the grille with cling film or a tarp, to prevent cold drafts.

However, for many of the world’s more sun-friendly destinations, air conditioning is less of an option and much more of a necessity. Tropical night-time temperatures can regularly extend into the high 30s, making a sound night’s sleep almost impossible without help. These three air conditioning tips can make your night more comfortable, sound, and healthy, no matter where you are.

1. Keep temperatures consistent

If you’re coming towards the end of a hot day, keep the inside temperature relatively constant as you drift off to sleep. Dropping the temperature at night may help you get to sleep faster, but it can also lead to illness due to the sudden change in temperature. When in doubt, change the heat gradually.

2. Use a timer to save money

If you only need a moment’s air conditioning to help you drift off to sleep, set a timer so that the air conditioning unit isn’t on all night. A simple 30-minute window of cool air is often enough to fall asleep, and can end up saving you hundreds of dollars a year.

3. Clean your air conditioning filters

Air conditioners are designed to eliminate dust particles, but when unclean they can end up doing the exact opposite. Always keep your air conditioning filters clean and fresh, else you could end up with itchy skin or breathing issues. You should use an air conditioning maintenance company who provide air conditioning servicing to clean the filters.