Are you wondering if a used aircon is still worth the spend? We’re Teko.ph, the largest aircon and appliance services provider in the Philippines, and we’ve got tips on how to make the most out of your purchase.

1. Check the exact model online.

Once you’ve zeroed in on a particular unit of a used air conditioner, know its exact model and year, and search the internet for specifics. You can go to the manufacturer’s website and see any reviews from other people who own the same model.

Reviews provide you with a quick overview of the unit’s features, operation, and efficiency. Some reviews will also give you extra information on the model’s parts, as well as its potential faults and parts accessibility. Compare the unit to the most recent model to see which features are missing from the earlier one.

You may also look for further information about the item on various appliance forums and even social media groups. If you see a pattern of complaints about the item, it’s possible that it’s a production defect, and you’d be better off looking at alternatives. If not, move on to the next step.

2. Examine the filters for damage.

Once you’ve arrived at the dealership or the item is physically accessible for inspection, the filters should be the first thing you examine. The unit’s filters under consideration must be well-maintained, in good working order with no evidence of substantial wear and tear, and free of too much dust.

3. Make sure the refrigerant levels are correct.

It’s critical to check the unit’s refrigerant level. Low refrigerant levels might interfere with the unit’s operation, causing heating and compressor damage. Low refrigerant levels will necessitate more energy to cool the area, resulting in higher electricity expenses. 

Older second-hand models are more likely to have low refrigerant levels than modern air conditioners. Check to ensure that the refrigerant level in the device is kept within safe limits and that there is no leakage in the lines that may harm the compressor.

4. Check the noise level.

Long-term usage of loud and noisy equipment may be upsetting and negatively impact our sleep and health. The less noise the unit makes, the better. For technical purposes, the noise it emits should not exceed 50 decibels or close to the noise a healthy refrigerator makes.

5. Use the unit for a quick evaluation.

Check the unit’s capacity to cool the room and adequately distribute the heat outside by turning it on. The following items should be included in your inspection of the unit:

• Parts for wear and tear, as well as dust and other contaminants
• Any noises that indicate a problem with the compressor or other components of the equipment
• Unit conditions, such as functional knobs, digital display, electrical cables, etc.

Conclusion

To save you from the stress of performing steps 2 through 5, you may ask a trained technician to accompany you. While the steps given above are relatively straightforward, we understand how they might seem like a lot of work. But, hey, it’s your appliance’s longevity that’s at risk here. Doing your due diligence now might save you some dough in the form of surprise repairs down the road.

When you decide to go for a brand new unit instead, read our blog about The Best Aircon Brands in the Philippines first to guide you.