Investing in an air conditioning system is essential for staying comfortable throughout Geelong’s changing seasons. However, simply installing a split system or ducted air conditioner isn’t enough—regular maintenance and servicing are crucial to ensuring long-term efficiency and performance. Without proper care, air conditioners can suffer from reduced cooling efficiency, higher electricity bills, and frequent breakdowns.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best maintenance practices to help you extend the lifespan of your air conditioner in Geelong, keeping it running efficiently for years to come.
Why Air Conditioner Maintenance Matters
Proper air conditioning maintenance offers multiple benefits:
- Extends lifespan – Well-maintained air conditioners last significantly longer than neglected units.
- Improves efficiency – A clean and serviced unit cools more effectively while using less energy.
- Prevents costly breakdowns – Routine checks help identify and fix small issues before they turn into expensive repairs.
- Enhances indoor air quality – Regular cleaning removes dust, allergens, and pollutants that circulate through the air.
Whether you own a ducted system or a split system air conditioner, following a structured maintenance routine will ensure optimal performance.
Clean or Replace Your Air Filters Regularly
One of the most important maintenance tasks for any air conditioner is cleaning or replacing the air filters. Over time, dust, dirt, and allergens accumulate in the filter, blocking airflow and forcing the system to work harder. This not only reduces cooling efficiency but also increases energy consumption.
How Often Should You Clean or Replace Filters?
- Every 1-2 months during peak usage (summer and winter).
- Every 3-6 months in low-use seasons (spring and autumn).
- More frequently if you have pets, allergies, or live in a dusty area.
Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean and Unobstructed
For those with split system or ducted air conditioning units, the outdoor condenser unit plays a crucial role in heat exchange. If this unit becomes clogged with dust, leaves, or debris, airflow is restricted, causing the system to overheat and work harder, which can lead to breakdowns.
How to Clean the Outdoor Unit
- Turn off the power before performing any maintenance.
- Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove dust and dirt from the exterior.
- Trim any plants, weeds, or obstructions within 60 cm of the unit to allow for proper airflow.
- If necessary, gently rinse the unit with a hose to remove stubborn dirt, avoiding high-pressure water that could damage components.
Keeping your outdoor unit clear is especially important in Geelong’s changing weather conditions, where wind, storms, and seasonal debris can quickly build up around your air conditioner.
Check and Clean the Evaporator and Condenser Coils
The evaporator coils (inside unit) and condenser coils (outdoor unit) are responsible for heat absorption and dissipation, keeping your home cool. Over time, these coils collect dust and grime, reducing their ability to transfer heat efficiently. This forces your system to work harder, consume more energy, and increase wear and tear.
Steps to Maintain the Coils
- Check coils every 6-12 months for dust accumulation.
- Use a coil cleaner spray (available at hardware stores) to remove dirt and debris.
- If the coils are heavily soiled, schedule a professional air conditioning service in Geelong for a deep clean.
Regularly maintaining your air conditioning coils prevents inefficiencies and keeps your system running smoothly throughout Geelong’s hot summers and cold winters.
Inspect and Maintain the Thermostat
Your thermostat plays a crucial role in regulating indoor temperatures and ensuring energy-efficient cooling. If your thermostat is outdated or malfunctioning, your air conditioner may run longer than necessary, leading to higher energy bills and increased wear on the system.
How to Maintain Your Thermostat
- Test the accuracy of the thermostat by setting it to a specific temperature and monitoring whether your air conditioner responds correctly.
- Replace old or faulty thermostats with programmable or smart thermostats to optimise energy use.
- Position your thermostat correctly – avoid placing it near heat sources, direct sunlight, or drafty areas, as this can result in inaccurate temperature readings.
Upgrading to a smart thermostat allows for better energy management, letting you schedule cooling times based on when you’re home or away, improving efficiency and comfort.
Check Refrigerant Levels and Look for Leaks
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your air conditioning system, responsible for absorbing and transferring heat. Low refrigerant levels can severely impact performance, causing poor cooling, higher energy consumption, and potential compressor damage.
Signs Your Refrigerant May Be Low
- Your air conditioner isn’t cooling effectively despite running continuously.
- Ice buildup on refrigerant lines or the evaporator coil.
- Hissing or bubbling sounds, indicating a refrigerant leak.
What to Do If You Suspect a Refrigerant Issue
- Do not attempt to refill refrigerant yourself – handling refrigerants requires ARCtick certification, which professional technicians hold.
- Schedule a professional inspection to check for leaks, refill refrigerant, and ensure compliance with Australian air conditioning regulations.
Schedule Regular Professional Servicing
While DIY maintenance helps keep your air conditioner running smoothly, professional servicing is essential for spotting hidden issues before they become costly repairs. A licensed technician can:
- Inspect internal components like fan motors, belts, and electrical connections.
- Clean and calibrate sensors, coils, and drainage systems.
- Ensure refrigerant levels are adequate and there are no leaks.
- Diagnose potential problems that may affect system performance in the future.
How Often Should You Service Your Air Conditioner?
- Once a year for standard residential use.
- Twice a year for systems in high-use environments, such as businesses or rental properties.
- Before summer or winter to ensure peak efficiency during extreme temperatures.
Ensure Your Air Conditioner Runs Smoothly All Year Round!
Regular maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your air conditioning system while ensuring energy efficiency and optimal cooling performance. Whether it’s cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, or scheduling professional servicing, these simple steps can prevent costly repairs and breakdowns.
At Precision Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we provide expert air conditioning maintenance in Geelong, helping homeowners and businesses keep their systems running efficiently.
Want to maximise the lifespan of your air conditioner? Book a professional service with Precision Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today!
