Deep Jet Service vs Basic AC Cleaning: What Is the Difference?

"AC service" can mean anything from rinsing the filter to dismantling and washing the whole indoor unit. Knowing the difference helps you ask for the right job and spot a rushed one.

Basic cleaning

A basic service usually covers the filters, a light wipe of the indoor unit and a quick look at the outdoor unit. It helps airflow, and suits a unit that is only mildly dusty.

Deep jet service

A deep service goes further: the indoor coil is washed with a controlled water jet, the blower wheel is cleaned, the drain tray is flushed and the outdoor condenser fins are cleaned. The electronics are covered before washing. It is worth doing when cooling has weakened, the unit smells, water drips indoors, or the AC has gone a long time without service.

How often?

A common rule is at least once a year before summer, and more often for heavily used units or dusty locations such as roadside homes and construction areas. Your manufacturer's manual is the best reference for your model.

Low cooling is not always "low gas"

Refrigerant is not used up like fuel. If an AC is genuinely low on gas, there is a leak. Topping up without finding the leak means the problem returns. A proper repair involves a leak test, fixing the leak, vacuuming the system and charging to the specified quantity. Ask the technician to show gauge readings before and after.

Signs you need a technician

• Ice on the indoor coil or the copper pipe
• Water dripping inside the room
• Cooling that is much weaker than last summer
• Unusual noise from the outdoor unit, or frequent tripping of the AC's breaker

What to ask before booking

• Exactly what the price includes
• Whether the electronics are protected during washing
• What warranty applies to the work

General guidance. Follow your AC manufacturer's recommendations for your model.