Things are heating up here in Brisbane. At the time of writing, we’re going through a heatwave that’s exceptionally warm for this time of year.
You may want to make sure your air con runs smoothly for the summer months. Here, we outline air conditioning maintenance tips to help you beat the heat.
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Split System Air Conditioning Maintenance
We install many split system air conditioners throughout the Brisbane area. These units are popular for homes and offices alike.
Proper maintenance makes your system operate efficiently and last longer for consistent comfort when needed the most. Not only does it help prevent unexpected breakdowns, but it also improves energy efficiency, so you save money on electricity bills.
Here are a few maintenance tips to keep your split system running smoothly.
1. Filter Cleaning and Replacement
- Clean Filters – Dirty filters can restrict airflow, making the system work harder and reducing efficiency. Clean the filters every one to three months by gently vacuuming them or washing them with lukewarm water. Always let them dry completely before reinstalling.
- Replace Filters – If the filters are damaged or excessively dirty, replace them with new ones. Regularly changing filters helps maintain good air quality and ensures your air conditioner functions effectively.
2. Inspect and Clean the Indoor Unit
- Wipe Down the Unit – Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe the exterior of the indoor unit. Remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated on the surface. Excessive dust on the exterior can kick up and enter the unit, building up in the filters.
3. Clean the Outdoor Unit
- Clear Debris – Ensure the outdoor unit is free from leaves, dirt, and other debris that can block airflow.
- Move Obstructions – Keep the area around the unit clear to allow proper ventilation. Move loose items like boxes or toys that may be stacked on or around the outdoor unit.
4. Schedule Professional Servicing
We recommend getting your split system air conditioner professionally serviced at least once a year, preferably before the summer season. A technician checks and addresses issues you should leave to the experts.
- Check the Evaporator Coil – Over time, the evaporator coil can collect dirt and grime, hindering heat exchange. An expert can gently clean the coil if needed.
- Clean the Condenser Fins – Removing dirt or obstructions from the fins helps maintain efficient heat dissipation.
- Check for Damage – Inspect the outdoor unit for any signs of damage, such as bent fins or loose parts. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
- Monitor Refrigerant – Low refrigerant levels can reduce the cooling efficiency and strain the compressor. A professional can check and refill the refrigerant if necessary.
- Look for Leaks – Refrigerant leaks affect performance and can harm the environment. A licensed technician needs to deal with any refrigerant issues.
- Clear the Drain Line – A clogged drain line can cause water to back up, leading to leaks and potential water damage.
- Check the Drain Pan – Inspect the drain pan for signs of rust or cracks and replace it if necessary to prevent leaks.
- Check Connections – Ensure all electrical connections are secure and free from corrosion. Loose connections can cause intermittent performance issues or electrical hazards.
- Test the Thermostat – Make sure the thermostat functions correctly and accurately to read the room temperature.
Following these maintenance tips keeps your split system air conditioner in excellent condition. A well-maintained air con can provide reliable and efficient cooling and heating for years.
Ducted Air Conditioning Maintenance
Ducted air conditioning gives you a whole-home cooling and heating solution. These systems are more complex than split systems.
You can do a few things to help maintain your ducted air con. But much of the maintenance should be done by professionals.
Here’s a rundown of ducted air conditioning maintenance.
1. Filter Cleaning and Replacement
- Clean Filters Regularly – Dirty filters block airflow, forcing the system to work harder and consume more energy. Check filters every one to three months and clean or replace them as needed. Filter cleaning is straightforward for most ducted systems and involves removing, washing, and drying the filters before reinstalling them.
- Replace Filters if Necessary – If the filters are worn or damaged, replace them to maintain optimal airflow and ensure effective filtration.
2. Air Vents and Grilles Cleaning
- Dust and Clean Vents – Dust can accumulate on vents and grilles. Regularly clean these with a damp cloth or vacuum to ensure air can move freely through the system.
- Inspect Vent Placement – Ensure furniture or other objects are not blocking vents to maintain proper air circulation throughout your home.
3. Check and Clean the Outdoor Unit
- Clear Debris – Ensure the outdoor unit is free of leaves, dirt, and debris that can restrict airflow. Keep plants and other objects at least 60 cm away from the unit for proper ventilation.
4. Schedule Professional Servicing
- Check for Duct Leaks or Blockages – Ducts can develop leaks or blockages over time. A professional technician can inspect the ducts for leaks, repair any damage, and clear blockages to restore proper airflow.
- Clean Ducts if Needed – Dust, debris, and even mould can accumulate in the ducts. Cleaning the ductwork helps improve indoor air quality and prevents potential health issues. We recommend professional duct cleaning every few years, especially in homes with pets or people with allergies.
- Test Thermostat Accuracy – Ensure the thermostat accurately reads the temperature and that settings are responsive. A miscalibrated thermostat can result in uneven cooling or heating and cause the system to work harder than necessary.
- Upgrade the Thermostat – An expert may recommend upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat to improve energy efficiency and provide greater control over temperature settings.
- Check Refrigerant Levels – Low refrigerant levels can reduce cooling efficiency and damage the compressor. A technician can check and refill refrigerant levels if the system isn’t cooling as expected.
- Inspect for Refrigerant Leaks – Leaks can reduce efficiency and harm the environment. An expert will repair them promptly if detected.
- Check Wiring and Connections – Loose or damaged wiring can lead to malfunctions and pose fire hazards. A technician will inspect electrical connections and test circuit breakers to ensure they’re in good condition.
- Test the Fan and Blower Motors – Ensure that fans and blowers run smoothly and quietly. Lubricate moving parts as necessary to avoid wear and tear.
- Clean the Drain Line – Algae or dirt can clog the drain line, leading to water leaks and potential damage. A professional will clear any blockages and ensure proper drainage.
- Check the Drain Pan – Ensure the drain pan is free from rust, cracks, or debris. Replace or repair the pan if needed to prevent water leaks.
- Clean Condenser Coils and Fins – Dirt and debris on the condenser coils and fins can affect heat exchange and reduce system efficiency. These components are delicate, so we recommend leaving this to the professionals.
These tips will keep your ducted air conditioning running optimally for years. A quality ducted system can last around 15 years and beyond.
5 Reasons for Regular Air Conditioning Maintenance
- Improved Efficiency – Regular maintenance keeps your air conditioner operating optimally. Cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting coils and fins prevent the unit from working harder than necessary. This reduces energy consumption, lowering electricity bills and environmental impact.
- Cost Savings – Preventative maintenance helps catch minor issues early. They don’t have time to become costly repairs that require parts replacement. For instance, cleaning and lubricating parts, checking electrical connections, and inspecting for leaks can prevent breakdowns, saving you from unexpected repair expenses.
- Comfort and Air Quality – Maintenance keeps the unit cooling or heating effectively, providing consistent comfort. Clean filters and ductwork also improve indoor air quality by reducing dust, allergens, and other particles in the air. This is especially important for people with respiratory issues or allergies.
- Extended Lifespan of the Unit – Well-maintained air conditioners have less wear and tear, which can extend their service life. Components such as the compressor, fan motor, and refrigerant system work smoothly, reducing the likelihood of system failure and prolonging the unit’s usability.
- Warranty Compliance – Many air conditioning warranties require regular servicing by licensed technicians. Adhering to these requirements protects your warranty, so you’re covered if any issues arise within the warranty period.
7 Signs Your Air Conditioning Needs Repairs
Neglecting maintenance makes it more likely you’ll need repairs in the future. Have you been overlooking air conditioning servicing for a little too long?
Here are 7 signs you might need repairs.
1. Reduced Cooling or Heating Efficiency
Is your unit no longer cooling or heating as effectively as it used to? This could indicate issues with the refrigerant levels, compressor, or evaporator coils. A system that struggles to reach the desired temperature may need immediate attention.
2. Unusual Noises
Clanking, banging, buzzing, or grinding sounds can indicate mechanical issues or loose components within the unit or ductwork. Typically, well-maintained split and ducted systems operate quietly. Strange noises may suggest that repairs are necessary.
3. Leaks or Moisture Around the Unit
Water pooling near the indoor unit might indicate a clogged or broken drain line, or a refrigerant leak. This can cause water damage and lead to mould growth if left untreated. And you don’t want refrigerant pooling around your home.
4. Unpleasant Odours
Foul or musty smells from the air conditioner can indicate mould, mildew, or bacterial growth within the unit or ductwork. A burning smell may signal electrical issues and should be addressed urgently. Call professionals if you smell unpleasant odours coming from your air con.
5. Frequent Cycling
The system turning on and off more frequently than usual could be a sign of thermostat issues, dirty filters, or problems with the compressor. Rapid cycling strains the unit and reduces efficiency, so it’s best to get this issue fixed.
6. Higher Energy Bills
An unexpected increase in electricity costs can signal that the air conditioner is working harder than necessary. This could be due to an underlying issue like dirty components, low refrigerant, or an ageing compressor.
7. Unresponsive Controls or Thermostat
Is your system unresponsive to thermostat settings or remote control commands? This may be wiring issues, a failing thermostat, or sensor problems.
Are you noticing any of these signs? We recommend consulting a licensed technician for a professional diagnosis. Prompt repairs can prevent further damage, improve efficiency, and extend the life of your split system air conditioner.
Conclusion
Air conditioning maintenance varies slightly for split and ducted systems. You can do a few basic maintenance steps yourself for each, but it’s best to use the experts for more thorough servicing.
We recommend getting a professional service done around once a year, preferably before the summer months. This keeps your air conditioning running smoothly when you need it the most.
Booking Your Air Conditioner Maintenance With Hewitt Trade Services
Hewitt Trade Services is the best in the air conditioning business in the Brisbane area. We have installed, repaired and serviced thousands of units during 21+ years of business.
Our years of experience give us a laser focus on the most common air conditioning challenges in the Brisbane community. We are highly trained, reliable, professional, efficient and fast.
Our 4.8-star rating from over 330 reviews on Google proves it.
We can help you assess your needs, get a quote, and make informed decisions about servicing your air conditioner. Using a reputable company like Hewitt Trade Services ensures a smooth and satisfactory experience. You can enjoy the benefits of a reliable and efficient air conditioner for years to come.
Are you ready to make an informed decision about your air conditioner maintenance?
We service the following areas in Brisbane:
Air Conditioning Albion – Air Conditioning Amberly – Air Conditioning Annerley – Air Conditioning Anstead – Air Conditioning Ascot – Air Conditioning Ashgrove – Air Conditioning Aspley – Air Conditioning Augustine Heights – Air Conditioning Bellbowrie – Air Conditioning Boondall – Air Conditioning Booval – Air Conditioning Bowen Hills – Air Conditioning Bracken Ridge – Air Conditioning Bridgeman Downs –Air Conditioning Brisbane – Air Conditioning Brookfield – Air Conditioning Brookside Centre – Air Conditioning Brookwater – Air Conditioning Carole Park – Air Conditioning Carseldine – Air Conditioning Chapel Hill – Air Conditioning Chermside – Air Conditioning Clayfield – Air Conditioning Collingwood Park – Air Conditioning Enoggera – Air Conditioning Everton Park, Air Conditioning Fig Tree Pocket – Air Conditioning Forest Lake – Air Conditioning Gaythorne – Air Conditioning Geebung – Air Conditioning Gordon Park – Air Conditioning Hamilton – Air Conditioning Hendra – Air Conditioning Indooroopilly
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