5 Tips to Maintain Your Air Conditioner in Summer

Everyone in Australia knows that feeling of stepping outside and being smacked in the face by the heat. In that kind of weather, whenever possible, it’s time to shelter inside and put the air conditioner on.

If you’ve not used your air con for cooling since last summer, you’ll want to ensure it’s working at its best before the next hot weather spell hits. It doesn’t matter if we’re talking about reverse cycle air conditioners, ducted systems or portable air conditioners, all air conditioning units need care and maintenance.

The last thing you want is a blast of warm air when you’re expecting soothing cool air. That’s why you want to be sure that the cooling capacity of your AC or evaporative cooler is in top condition as the warmer months approach.

Here are five ways to maintain your air conditioner during the summer season.

If it’s been a while since you last gave your air conditioner filters a good clean, they could be negatively impacting your entire system. Dirty filters have the potential to:

• Emit unpleasant odours throughout your home
• Reduce the efficiency of your AC
• Prevent cool air from being produced

The most common reason for filters becoming dirty is the build up of dirt, dust, pollen, fibres and fur (if you’ve got pets). Split system air conditioners are particularly susceptible to this.

The build up not only reduces efficiency but can also lead to the growth of mould and unwanted smells.

The best way to prevent a build up of dirt is to regularly clean your filters, with a recommended frequency of every two to three weeks (if the system is being used regularly).

However, if you have pets or suffer from allergies, it’s advisable to clean the filter more frequently. Fortunately, cleaning your air filters is a relatively easy task.

For a split system air conditioner, you can simply remove the filter from the indoor unit, use a soft brush to remove any dust, rinse it with warm water, and let it dry. Once dry, place the filter back in the unit and you’re good to go.

An air conditioning unit will not be energy efficient with dirty filters. It may also deliver heated air when you least want it.

If the filter is damaged, it’s important to have it replaced in a timely manner. A licensed air conditioning service technician will be able to handle this for you.

Duct cleaning serves a dual purpose. It improves indoor air quality and maintains optimal airflow for a comfortable living environment, particularly during Australia’s scorching summers.

The process involves the removal of dust and debris accumulated in the ducts which, when left unattended, can cause health hazards and inefficient air conditioning.

Clean air ducts are essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, especially for individuals with asthma or high sensitivity to allergens.

By ensuring a consistent supply of fresh and clean air throughout the home, it creates a comfortable living environment that is conducive to overall well-being.

Despite its significance, duct cleaning is often overlooked and people tend to forget about it. It is understandable because it can be a daunting task that requires professional assistance.

Only an expert with the necessary skills and expertise can guarantee a thorough cleaning job that will leave your air conditioning unit working properly.

All popular air conditioner types require servicing, but keeping air ducts clean is particularly important.

Therefore, it is crucial to seek the services of a professional duct cleaning company to keep your AC system clean, your home healthy and your unit running at peak performance.

A qualified HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) technician can also offer advice on what might be the best air conditioner for your situation.

After cleaning the filters from the indoor unit of your air conditioning system, it is important to inspect the outdoor unit (or condenser). This is typically mounted on the roof or on a side wall.

Debris, dirt and other organic matter can accumulate around the condenser, which can hinder its performance and efficiency – something you certainly want to avoid.

Additionally, inadequate venting can cause the temperature to rise, resulting in potentially disastrous consequences. To prevent this from happening, we suggest using a broom to clear the area around the condenser every few months or immediately after any harsh weather conditions.

In some cases, animals may find refuge in or around the condenser unit. Although it may appear cute and cosy, it is not always the best situation for the animal or your home. You certainly don’t want a lizard or rat making a smelly mess in your condenser.

While you are outside inspecting the outdoor unit, check the electrical setup to ensure that there are no noticeable issues with the power supply or motor. This is crucial for the unit’s longevity and optimal performance.

After everything is clean, it’s time to put your air conditioner to the test. By doing so, you can ensure that the thermostat, air filter, vents and pipework are all functioning properly.

Checking your air con before summer – or before the first heatwave hits – can help you identify any potential issues and fine-tune your settings to get the best out of your system.

As you turn on your air conditioner, ask yourself a few questions:

• Is cool air coming out of the vents?
• Do you hear any strange sounds, like banging or abnormal motor or condenser noises?
• Are there any leaking or hissing pipes?
• Are there any unpleasant smells?
• Are all the functions working properly?
• Does the fan create a strong breeze?

If you answered “no” to any of these questions, it might be time to call in a professional.

While you can clean the filter and some parts, a licensed professional is required for a thorough investigation of your air conditioner. Air conditioners can be difficult to diagnose, so you’ll want to ensure that nothing is overlooked.

When it comes down to it, the best way to keep your air conditioner running during an Australian summer – where temperature can be scorching – is to schedule a professional service. DIY air conditioner maintenance is not recommended at all – make sure you hire a qualified technician.

A comprehensive servicing will ensure that your air conditioner is clean, and any crucial components that require replacement can be attended to.

By enlisting the help of your local heating and cooling technician, you can have the peace of mind that all the parts are in proper working order, even those that are difficult to access.

This is especially beneficial for ducted central air conditioning systems or evaporative cooling units, which may have components located on the roof.

Stay Cool While the Temperature Soars

By the way, if you’re in the market for a new air conditioner, make sure you check the Zoned Energy Rating Label and ensure the unit’s heating and cooling efficiency are top notch.

A fully qualified technician can provide duct cleaning services, filter cleaning, troubleshooting and fault finding to ensure your home stays cool even when the temperature soars.

Do you have the right air conditioner for the space your want to heat or cool? Is it the right size air conditioner? When the outdoor air starts to turn warm and you need efficient cooling to make sure your home stays at your target temperature, you need an AC expert.

Are you getting warm air from your air ducts when you want a rush of cold air? Or perhaps the cold weather is giving you a chill although your system is in heating mode? Here’s what to do.

Call the Professionals at Mr Emergency

Whatever your local climate is, the HVAC professionals at Mr Emergency will check indoor units, outdoor units and everything in between. If you need a replacement, we don’t just suggest the most popular type of AC unit, but we work out the best system for your room size.

It doesn’t matter if you’ve got a portable air conditioner, a window AC, a ducted system or a split system air conditioner, your HVAC system needs regular maintenance. That’s when you need the experts at Mr Emergency for fast, efficient service. We service and install every air conditioner brand, from ActronAir, AquaMAX, Carrier and Coolair to Mitsubishi Electric, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Braemar and more.

When you’re in the market for split systems, ducted air conditioners window air conditioning units or anything else, it’s time to contact Mr Emergency.

We have the expertise to compare models and work out the best model for your heating and cooling requirements. Mr Emergency is just as familiar with newer models as the old classics.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.