How do you get the most from your system and when should you get the professionals in? Ensuring that our ducted air conditioning systems are in top-notch condition is essential as proper maintenance can significantly extend the life of your system, keep energy costs down, and save you from the woes of unexpected ducted air conditioning repairs. Here’s how to keep the cool breeze flowing efficiently through your ducts and make sure you enjoy your system for many years to come. 

1. Check Your Filters Every Three Months

One of the keys to good ducted aircon maintenance is to know the state of your filters. The filter in your ducted air conditioning system acts as a guardian, keeping dust and allergens from entering your home and clogging the internal workings of your unit. A clogged filter doesn’t just reduce air quality, it can also increase your power usage by forcing the system to work harder to circulate air. This can lead to higher energy bills and even potential damage to the system over time. While an annual check from a professional will clean your filters, it’s best to maintain them throughout the year. As your filters block up they reduce airflow through the unit. This means the air running through your ducts is colder, potentially leading to condensation that can drip through and leave stains on your ceilings. To avoid this, checking and cleaning your return air filter at least every three months is vital. This regular maintenance task is simple but has a profound impact on the efficiency and longevity of your system. By maintaining a clean filter, you ensure your air conditioner operates at its optimal level, providing clean air and keeping energy consumption in check. Remember, a well-maintained filter is key to a healthy, efficient home cooling system.

To check and clean the filters in your ducted air conditioning system, you should first locate the return air grille and carefully remove the filter. Check for any dust build-up or debris that might be clogging the mesh. If it’s dirty, gently clean it with a vacuum cleaner to remove loose dust. For a more thorough clean, wash the filter with warm, soapy water, rinse it well, and let it dry completely before reinserting it. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable performing this task, it’s always best to consult the user manual or contact a professional. 

2. Get a Professional in Once a Year

An annual air conditioning maintenance service by a certified technician is essential for the health of your ducted air conditioning system. 

This preventative measure is more than a quick look-over. It’s a comprehensive review and tune-up. A Smarter Air professional will delve into the system, from electrical connections that need tightening to refrigerant levels that must be just right. They’ll clear your drains, which can prevent water damage and mould growth, and check each zone to ensure your system is ready to operate efficiently for another year. Scheduling this service is like giving your system a fresh start annually, catching any minor issues before they become major problems.

Included in an annual check of your ducted air con system is: 

• Test ac unit operation
• Test zone motors
• Inspect ductwork & fittings for air leaks
• Electrical connections checked/tightened
• Inspect the condition of drains & safety tray pan
• Apply drain pan treatment
• Inspect & remove debris from outdoor coil
• Clean outdoor unit cabinet
• Balance airflows (MyAir systems only)
• Clean, disinfect & deodorize filters
• Check supply & return temperatures
• Inspect refrigerant pipe connections
• Provide you with a report including any recommendations

3. Keep The Outdoor Unit Clear To Maximise Airflow And Efficiency

The outdoor unit of your air conditioning system, often overlooked, plays a pivotal role in its overall efficiency. It can be easy for anyone in the household to pop some timber or rest some panelling next to the outdoor unit and forget about it. But this can cost you in the long-run. 

Ensuring there’s nothing encroaching upon your outdoor unit’s space helps you keep costs down and makes sure your home is being cooled efficiently. Obstructions like plants, debris, or any sort of plastic or fabric sheeting on or close to the system can restrict airflow, causing the system to work harder, leading to higher energy consumption and a possible reduction in its lifespan. By maintaining a clear area around the unit, you allow the system to dissipate heat effectively, ensuring it operates as designed. Staying on top of this not only enhances performance but also aids in avoiding unnecessary stress on the system, keeping it running smoothly and more economically.

4. Optimise Your Temperature Settings And Get The Right Balance

While an annual service can only be done by a professional, one of the best things you can do on your own to get the most from your ducted air conditioning is to stick to an efficient temperature setting. 

Setting your ducted air conditioner to a reasonable temperature is key to achieving comfort without incurring unnecessary costs or wear and tear on your system. The optimal temperature range for both efficiency and comfort tends to be between 22-24 degrees Celsius. Selecting a setting within this range can prevent the system from running non-stop, which not only avoids increased energy consumption but also reduces the risk of internal components remaining damp. This dampness can accelerate mould growth within the unit, which is a risk not only to your system’s health but also to your home’s air quality. Keeping to these recommended settings makes sure your system works effectively without overexertion, providing warmth or cooling as needed while maintaining energy efficiency.

5. Protect Your System From Pests

Pests can do a lot of damage to your ducted air conditioning system. These unwelcome guests are not just a household nuisance but can directly impact the functionality and efficiency of your system. Rodents such as rats and mice love gnawing through ducts, leading to air leaks that can compromise the distribution of conditioned air and result in significant energy wastage and large bills on your end. 

When you book an annual service, Smarter Air will inspect your ducts for leaks, but proactive measures such as sealing entry points and ensuring that the outdoor unit’s surroundings are clean can deter pests from nesting and causing damage. Employing a professional pest control service not only protects your ductwork but also contributes to the overall air quality and performance of your air conditioning system.