In Lagos, a broken AC is not just uncomfortable; during harmattan and peak summer, it is genuinely dangerous. Yet most people do not know when to service their unit, what signs mean serious trouble, or how to find a reliable AC technician.
Signs your AC needs repair (not just servicing)
Warm air blowing: If your AC is running but blowing warm air, the refrigerant may be low or the compressor may be failing. This is not a DIY fix; you need a certified refrigerant technician.
Water leaking indoors: Small condensation outside is normal. Water dripping inside on your walls or ceiling means the drain pipe is blocked or the unit is improperly installed.
Unusual noises: Rattling, grinding, or squealing sounds indicate loose parts or motor issues. Turn off the unit immediately and call a pro.
Frequent tripping: If your AC trips your circuit breaker repeatedly, the electrical draw is too high, usually a failing compressor or a wiring issue.
Ice forming on the unit: Counter-intuitively, ice forming means inadequate airflow or low refrigerant. Switch to fan-only mode and call a technician.
Servicing vs. repair: what is the difference?
Servicing (N8,000 - N20,000): Cleaning filters, coils, drain pans, checking refrigerant levels, and testing overall performance. Should be done every 3-6 months in Lagos due to dust.
Repair: Fixing a specific fault: compressor replacement, refrigerant recharge, PCB replacement, fan motor repair. Prices vary by fault and brand.
Finding a reliable AC technician in Lagos
Use PronearMe's AC Repair page to browse certified technicians with real customer reviews. Filter by your area, Lekki, Ikeja, VI, Surulere, and book same day.