With our intense Australian temperatures, having a trusty air conditioner is pretty much an absolute necessity. And when it comes to air-con units, split-system air conditioners have come to the fore. However, these require regular upkeep or split-system AC maintenance.
In this article, we’ll delve into everything there is to know about keeping your split system air conditioner in top form.
What are Split System Air Conditioners?
Split-system air conditioners are a type of air conditioner comprising two main components—an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit houses the compressor, condenser coil, and expansion coil, while the indoor unit includes the cooling coil, long blower, and air filter. In ducted air conditioning or a ducted system, the conditioned air is channelled to different rooms via ductwork.
The beauty of these split-air ACs, when compared to their ducted air conditioning cousins, is the ability to adjust the temperature in individual rooms, thanks to the reverse cycle of split-air conditioning systems. This allows both solutions for heating and cooling systems.
How Do Split System Air Conditioners Work?
Split systems work by conveying heat energy from one location (usually our toasty interiors) to another (the outdoors). This transition of heat is made possible by refrigerant, a compound with some remarkable physical properties.
Here’s roughly how it goes: warm air from your room is sucked in through the air conditioner’s louvres. The air then glides over pipes containing refrigerant, which absorb heat from the air, essentially turning the refrigerant from a cool, low-pressure gas to a hot, high-pressure gas.
This warmed refrigerant then proceeds to the exterior unit, where the gas gets compressed and cooled so it can continue to absorb more heat.
It’s a bit of a roundabout way of getting things done, but it’s rather effective, wouldn’t you say? However, for your split system to run smoothly, regular care is crucial.
When to Perform Split System AC Maintenance
For the sake of optimum performance, a split system service should be performed at least once a year. Given that summer is when air conditioners find themselves working the hardest, many Aussies schedule a yearly service before things heat up. This allows any issues to be sorted before peak usage periods kick in.
Routine maintenance, such as cleaning air filters and wiping down units, is suggested every two to four weeks. More extensive DIY maintenance, like cleaning the outdoor air conditioning unit, or engaging professional cleaning services, should be done on an annual basis. Perform maintenance on reverse-cycle systems more frequently as they work all year-round.
Signs Your AC Needs a Service
Staying cool during the sizzling Australian summer is no laughing matter. It’s a serious business, and your split system AC is your most valuable player. Giving it the right routine split system AC maintenance can keep it functioning at its peak performance. But how do you know if your unit needs attention? Here are some telltale signs that your split system air conditioner may be due for a service.
Hotter Than Usual
When it’s hot as a kangaroo’s pouch outside, the last thing you need is your cool haven turning into a hot box. If your air conditioner is blowing out more hot air than usual, it’s a clear sign something’s not quite right. This could be due to low refrigerant levels or compressor issues.
Limited Air Flow
A noticeable reduction in airflow can indicate a blockage is disrupting your system, reducing its efficiency. Blocked air filters can often be the culprit, but it could also be issues with the motor or even the ductwork itself.
Puddles at the Wicket
While some condensation on your outdoor unit can be normal, excessive leaks or pools of water suggest your system has a problem. A blocked or broken drain tube may be causing the issue, or it could even be a refrigerant leak.:
Sky-High Electricity Bills
Just like getting caught in a rip at Bondi, getting hit with an unexpectedly high energy bill can leave you gasping. Sure, energy usage may increase somewhat during a hot spell, but if the change is significant, your HVAC system could be the reason.
Rattles, Bangs, and Clunks
An odd rattle here and there from your outdoor unit might be just a pesky possum using it as a drum kit, but consistent strange noises might mean it needs to go to the workshop. Whether it’s a mechanical problem or parts that need replacing, it’s best to get onto it ASAP.
Bad Odours
If turning on your air conditioner results in unpleasant odours, this could indicate mould within your unit or ductwork, a pretty serious issue as it poses potential health risks.
Constant Short Cycling
Air conditioners typically go through cycles with quieter periods interspersed during cooler times. If your unit is starting and stopping frequently or having difficulty maintaining cool temperatures, it might signify a major underlying issue that needs attention.
Extended Cooling Times
If your split system air conditioner seems to be taking longer than usual to reach the desired temperature, or it never gets there at all, it’s time to ring the professionals.
Overlooking these signs could lead to costly repairs or even replacing your whole split system. Regular maintenance can nip potential issues in the bud, keeping you and your family cool as cucumbers all summer long.
Exploring the Maintenance Process
Even though the maintenance of your split system air conditioner is something to be handled by the pros, it’s also important for you, as the homeowner, to have an idea on how their tasks work. Let’s break down the cleaning process into palatable chunks.
For Regular Cleaning and Maintenance:
Here are some regular cleaning and maintenance tips, some of which you can even do yourself:
- Inspect the air filters: These crucial components catch dust and other airborne particles. Gentle cleaning or replacing air filters can keep your split system air conditioner pushing out that cool air efficiently.
- Clean your indoor unit: Using some warm water mixed with mild detergent will do, followed by thoroughly drying with a dry cloth. Then, vacuum the air conditioner’s louvres and the surrounding area using a vacuum cleaner with the brush attachment. This knocks off another segment of the dust problem.
- Remote control: Just to add a notch of perfection, consider giving your air conditioner’s remote control a wipe.
For More Extensive, Annual Maintenance:
Here are more labour-intensive cleaning and maintenance tips that can be done less frequently:
- Checking the outdoor unit: Outdoor air conditioning units need some TLC, too. It’s all about freeing them from dust, leaves, and all sorts of backyard debris. And let’s not forget to keep surrounding shrubbery from obstructing airflow. Using a vacuum cleaner here can be effective, too.
- Clean the evaporator drain: An obstructed evaporator drain is a common culprit of leakages from indoor units, making it worth a glance.
- Professional Cleaning: This takes us nicely to our next topic…
The Importance of Professionals in Split System AC Maintenance
Can we DIY everything? Sure, for minor, superficial cleanups. However, for a thorough cleaning of your indoor air conditioning unit and outdoor unit, or any emergency repairs, professional air conditioning experts are your best bet.
They excel at additional services, including checking refrigerant gas levels, inspecting for leaking refrigerant, testing power supply, providing a deep clean (especially for outdoor coils), and offering sound advice on how to optimise energy efficiency and maintain cool air quality.
Keeping your split system air conditioning systems in good condition is all about saving money in the long run, avoiding expensive repairs or replacements of your heating and cooling systems, and an efficient air conditioner keeps energy bills in check.
Be at Your Comfiest with Split System AC
Regular upkeep of your split air conditioner system ensures comfort all year-round and keeps energy bills from soaring. While DIY maintenance can help, don’t overlook the importance of professional assistance for more exacting tasks. Stay comfortable, even during the most blistering of Aussie summers and the most biting winters, by ensuring your split system air conditioner is running in tiptop condition.
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.