Most air conditioners go unused during colder months. When summer arrives, they’re turned on without inspection. This leads to failures, reduced performance, and higher power bills.
A neglected unit struggles under summer load. Dust blocks airflow, coils overheat, and moisture causes internal damage. Delays in repair are common during heatwaves. Early action prevents costly faults, keeps your home cool, and avoids energy waste.
A pre-summer inspection restores system performance, reduces the chance of breakdown, and extends the life of your unit. Cleaning filters, checking drainage, and confirming safe function are basic steps. For deeper checks, book a technician to assess internal parts and ensure the system is ready.
Signs Your System Needs Attention
Common signs your system needs servicing include:
- Weak airflow from vents
- Warm air instead of cooling
- Water dripping or pooling near the indoor unit
- Buzzing, grinding, or rattling noises
- Smells when switching on
- Temperature not holding or taking too long to cool
Any of these issues can lead to system failure if ignored.
1. Clean the Outdoor Unit
Turn off the power at the isolation switch or circuit breaker before starting.
Remove leaves, twigs, dirt, and cobwebs from around the outdoor compressor. Use a soft brush or vacuum to clean the fan grille.
Avoid high-pressure hoses or sharp tools. For the coil fins, use a low-pressure water spray and brush lightly in the direction of the fins to avoid bending.
Check that the unit has 300 mm clearance on all sides. Overhanging plants, fencing, or storage items should be moved away. Blocked airflow reduces cooling performance and increases compressor load.
2. Clean or Replace Filters
Remove filters from the indoor unit. For reusable filters, rinse with warm water and mild detergent. Allow filters to dry completely before reinstalling. Never run the system with wet filters in place.
If the system uses disposable filters, replace with the correct size and rating based on the unit’s model. Filters trap dust, pet hair, and airborne particles. Dirty filters reduce airflow and increase power use.
Do this task every one to three months during summer depending on usage.
3. Check Air Vents
Inspect vents in every room. Ensure each one is fully open and not blocked by furniture or curtains. Dust or cobwebs inside vents should be vacuumed or wiped clean. Use a long-handled soft brush or attachment if vents are in the ceiling.
Uneven cooling often comes from restricted airflow. In ducted systems, check both supply and return vents.
4. Inspect the Drain
Find the condensate drain outlet near the outdoor unit or on an exterior wall. Look for signs of water stains, green algae, or mud buildup. Blockages in this drain can back water into the indoor unit, causing water leaks, mould, and internal damage.
Flush the pipe gently with warm water if safe to do so. If the system has an internal tray, check for standing water and clear any trapped debris.
5. Test Thermostat and Remote
Power on the unit and select cooling mode. Lower the temperature setting and observe whether the outdoor unit activates and cool air flows from vents. Allow it to run for several minutes. Check that the system reaches the set temperature without excessive cycling.
If the system delays starting, cycles too often, or the display is not responsive, there may be a sensor or control issue. Replace batteries in the remote if needed and test all control functions including timers.
When to Call a Technician
Some issues require licensed assessment and cannot be corrected through DIY cleaning. These include:
- Refrigerant checks and top-ups
- Fault code diagnosis and resets
- Sensor misalignment or controller failure
- Motor or fan bearing noise
- Indoor unit short cycling or coil freezing
Systems showing any of the above should be inspected before summer demand increases.
What Professional Servicing Includes
A complete service visit from a licensed technician involves deeper inspection, cleaning, and adjustment of internal and external components.
- Refrigerant Pressure Check
Measures system pressure against the manufacturer standard to confirm gas is within operating range. Low pressure affects cooling and may indicate leaks. - Evaporator and Condenser Coil Cleaning
Removes embedded dust and grime using safe cleaning agents. Dirty coils reduce cooling power and efficiency. - Electrical Test and Tightening
Technicians check all terminals, capacitors, and wiring for signs of corrosion, voltage drop, or loose connections. - Drainage Test and Flushing
Ensures clear condensate flow. Blocked drains can trigger shutdown or water damage. - Fan and Motor Inspection
Motors are checked for speed variation, wear, or vibration. Fan blades are inspected for alignment and obstruction. - Airflow Balance Check
Verifies delivery of cooled air across all outlets. Ensures ducted systems have no collapse, disconnection, or uneven pressure.
Each step reduces the risk of breakdown and improves system efficiency during high-use periods.
Performance and Energy Efficiency Benefits
When filters are clean, and coils are clear, systems cool faster and draw less power. A serviced unit avoids continuous running, which cuts energy waste. Proper refrigerant levels also mean the compressor runs in a stable cycle rather than starting and stopping repeatedly.
Testing in Australian homes has shown up to 15 percent reduction in electricity use after a basic clean and pressure test. For ducted systems, air loss through minor duct damage can increase energy use by 20 to 30 percent if not addressed.
Early maintenance avoids these losses and reduces long-term operating costs.
How Often to Service Your System
Service frequency depends on use and environment. Daily use across summer requires yearly servicing. Low-use systems in cooler climates may be serviced every two years, but should still be checked before each summer.
If you live near coastal zones, salt build-up accelerates wear. Homes with pets or smokers may require more frequent filter cleaning. Units installed near trees or gardens may need extra outdoor clearing to avoid airflow blockages.
Keep Records for Warranty Support
Most manufacturers require proof of ongoing servicing to maintain warranty coverage. If a claim is submitted and records are missing, coverage may be denied. Record the date of service, provider name, and tasks performed.
This protects your investment and ensures warranty claims are supported if major issues arise.
Hogan Hot Water & Air Conditioning Advice
Air conditioning systems are more likely to fail under peak summer demand when they haven’t been checked early. A short pre-season service helps your unit work better, last longer, and avoid emergency repairs.
At Hogan Hot Water & Air Conditioning, we inspect your system, clean all key components, and confirm the unit is ready for continuous use. Whether you have a split, ducted, or multi-split system, we’ll ensure it’s operating safely and efficiently before the temperature rises. Don’t wait until heat hits to find out your system isn’t ready. Book your service now and stay cool without interruptions this summer.