The Importance of Air Conditioning Maintenance in Barcelona

Barcelona’s Mediterranean climate, with increasingly warmer and longer summers, makes air conditioning an essential feature in many homes.

For long-term rental properties, both landlords and tenants must pay special attention to the maintenance of these systems to ensure they function properly and to prevent potential breakdowns.

At ShBarcelona, we explain everything you need to know about air conditioning maintenance in this type of property.

How often should air conditioning be checked?

Although a single annual inspection might seem enough, it’s actually best to have two technical check-ups per year. The first inspection should be done between April and May, just before peak usage season begins.

The second should be scheduled after the summer, between September and October. This double check-up allows any issues to be detected before the unit is heavily used again or suffers wear and tear from months of operation.

During a professional service, several components essential to the proper functioning of the air conditioner are inspected. Photo: ShBarcelona

Who is responsible for maintenance?

In long-term rentals in Barcelona, the tenant is responsible for the maintenance of the air conditioning unit. This includes ensuring proper use, detecting possible faults, and most importantly, scheduling regular inspections. Making sure the system is working correctly not only improves comfort but also helps prevent more costly repairs in the future.

Who should carry out the inspection?

While anyone can do a superficial check, it is strongly recommended to hire qualified professionals. Specialised technicians have the necessary expertise to identify hidden issues and anticipate future problems such as leaks or compressor failures, which can lead to expensive repairs.

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What elements are checked?

During a professional inspection, several key components are examined to ensure the proper functioning of the air conditioning system. These include the filters — which must be cleaned or replaced regularly — the refrigerant gas level, the condition of electrical connections, and the cleanliness of the pipes. Each of these components is vital to maintaining the unit’s efficiency.

Is it mandatory to inspect the refrigerant gas?

It’s not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. Especially during the summer months, when temperatures rise and the demand for technicians peaks, it’s wise to anticipate the need for a gas refill. Early detection of low gas levels can help avoid long waits or malfunctions during peak months like July or August.

An air conditioning unit that isn’t properly maintained can become a source of discomfort. Photo by Emiliano Fanti via Unsplash.

What problems can poor maintenance cause?

A poorly maintained air conditioning unit can become a source of discomfort. Common issues include bad odours, stale or humid air, and in more severe cases, respiratory problems for the occupants. Moreover, lack of maintenance can lead to serious technical faults that affect the overall performance of the system.

Warning signs: when to schedule an urgent inspection

There are certain symptoms that indicate an air conditioning unit needs urgent attention. Dripping, strange noises, unpleasant smells, or weak airflow are clear signs that something isn’t right. At the first sign of any of these, it’s advisable to contact a qualified technician immediately.

Related article: Installing Air Conditioning at Home

It is recommended that appliances be serviced twice a year. Photo by Everett Pachmann via Unsplash

Benefits of regular maintenance

Regular inspections not only extend the lifespan of the unit, but also ensure a healthier, more comfortable home environment. They also help optimise energy use, lowering electricity bills and avoiding unpleasant surprises that could affect the tenant’s quality of life.

At ShBarcelona, we understand the importance of keeping your home in top condition year-round. That’s why we encourage you to keep an eye on the state of your climate control systems, and if you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact our team. We’ll be happy to help you.

ShBarcelona, ​​your trusted real estate agency