Split system maintenance is one of those household chores that is often overlooked until it’s too late. But is it something you should be doing in all seasons? Let’s look at some of the reasons why you shouldn’t neglect your split system maintenance in the winter. After all, a well-maintained split system will keep you comfortable throughout the year, no matter the temperature outside.
A split system air conditioner consists of two main sections: the indoor unit and the outdoor unit. The indoor unit, which is the part you see inside your home, is responsible for circulating cool air. It houses the evaporator coil, which absorbs the heat from the air, and a fan, which then blows this cooled air into your space. The outdoor unit contains the compressor and condenser coil, along with another fan, all of which work together to remove the heat from the refrigerant and blow it out.
But why split the units? Traditional air conditioners can produce a lot of noise due to the compressor’s location. In a split system, the compressor is located outside, significantly reducing noise levels inside your home or business. This makes split-system air conditioners a popular choice for bedrooms, offices, and even libraries.
Additionally, with a multi-head split system, you can get multiple indoor units for different rooms, all powered by the same outdoor unit. This allows for all rooms to have different thermostats so everyone can be comfortable, no matter what temperature they prefer.
Additionally, the split system offers more energy efficiency than ducted systems. As the cool air is produced directly in the indoor unit, there’s no energy loss through ducts, which is often a problem with central air conditioning systems. The lack of ductwork also makes these units far easier and cheaper to install, especially in pre-existing buildings.
Regular maintenance plays a pivotal role in improving the lifespan and efficiency of your split system air conditioner, providing a comfortable environment for you in all seasons. Here is a step-by-step guide for maintaining your split system:
Before you begin the maintenance process, make sure that the system is turned off. Don’t just switch off the unit using the remote control, but turn off the power supply at the wall (if the power point is accessible.) This decreases the risk of electric shocks.
The filters in your indoor unit play a significant role in keeping the air entering your space clean. Over time, these filters accumulate dust and other particles, which can hinder the airflow and compromise the effectiveness of your unit. Gently remove the filters, wash them in warm, soapy water, and let them dry completely before reinstalling. Don’t forget to wipe down the outside of the indoor unit to keep it looking fresh and clean.
The outdoor unit of your split system is as crucial as the indoor unit. Make sure the space around it is free of debris and plants that could block the airflow and affect the efficiency of the system.
The grille of the outdoor unit can often become clogged with dust and dirt. Using a soft brush, gently clean the grille to ensure optimal airflow. Be careful not to damage the delicate fins behind the grille.
What if you notice reduced cooling or unusual noises from your unit? While the above steps can handle minor issues, these signs may indicate a larger problem that requires attention from a professional technician. In such cases, it’s always a good idea to call in the experts. Professional maintenance allows for a more thorough inspection and repair of any issues.
You might be ready to dive straight into your DIY air conditioner maintenance, but it’s important to be aware of the steps to avoid. While DIY maintenance certainly saves you a few dollars, it’s essential to be cautious and avoid common mistakes that might lead to costly repairs in the end.
Never try to fix complex parts such as compressors or condenser coils on your own. These are delicate and complicated parts that require professional help. Any attempt to repair these yourself can lead to further damage and could void your warranty. So, while you might feel the temptation to tinker with these parts when they’re not working as they should, it’s wise to resist and call in a professional instead.
You might come across several suggestions and ‘hacks’ on the internet. While some of them might be useful, it’s essential to understand that not all advice is good advice. For instance, using harsh cleaning agents to clean your filters can cause them to deteriorate faster and require replacing sooner. Instead, use water and very mild soap if there is significant buildup, and make sure they are thoroughly dried before replacing them.
While it’s important to keep the area around your outdoor unit clean, being too aggressive while cleaning can cause harm. Avoid using pressure washers or the jet function of your hose to clean the outdoor unit, as it can damage the delicate fins on the condenser coil. Instead, use a soft brush to gently remove any debris.
DIY maintenance can certainly help with minor issues, such as a dusty filter or a messy space around an outdoor unit. When it comes to the more technical aspects of split system maintenance, like checking refrigerant levels and inspecting the condenser coil or the compressor, these are tasks best left to professionals.
A professional technician will not only fix what’s broken but also conduct a thorough inspection to find and prevent potential problems. They have the necessary tools and expertise to take a deeper look into your system, making sure every component is working properly. Scheduled maintenance by a professional is also a condition of the warranty on most new systems, and without it, you might be left with high replacement costs!
Professional maintenance can significantly improve your system’s efficiency. An efficient air conditioner not only cools your home better but also saves you money by reducing energy consumption. This is particularly important before high-use seasons like summer and winter, when the demand on your split system increases.For installation, repairs or maintenance on split systems in Blackburn, Box Hill, Lilydale and more, Australian Climate Systems is here to help!
Most people probably think they only need to service their split system once a year, just before summer. However, one of the benefits of split systems is that they also provide heating, so they can be used all year round.
Due to this, it’s important to consider maintenance on your split system twice per year–once in late October or early November before the weather warms up and again in late April or early May when it begins to cool. This allows you to enjoy reliable results from your split system, regardless of whether it provides heating or cooling.
Seasonal changes cause fluctuations in temperature, but also humidity and air quality. If we’ve experienced an especially humid summer or there has been a lot of bushfire smoke, the filters in your split system are likely to be dirtier than usual. You want to avoid blowing mould spores or smoke particles through your home to prevent breathing difficulties, so it is especially important to clean these!
Maintaining your split system isn’t tricky if you know the right steps. Regular maintenance, consistent servicing and avoiding common DIY mistakes can keep your system running efficiently all year round. Remember, while DIY methods can tackle minor issues, don’t hesitate to call professionals for a thorough check-up.
For the best single or multi-head split system services in Melbourne, Australian Climate Systems is here to help. We work on all brands and styles of split systems, carefully checking them over to make sure all the components are in working order and quickly replacing any that are beginning to wear.
For split system maintenance at any time of year, contact Australian Climate Systems on 03 9726 4444. Call today for a free quote!
