Perth’s climate places unique demands on air con systems, making it important to know how to prepare your air conditioner for any time of year. To prepare your air conditioner for summer involves cleaning the filters, inspecting the indoor and outdoor unit, and adjusting thermostat settings, while winter preparation includes protecting the outdoor unit, cleaning the filters, and switching modes.
With Perth’s scorching summer temps right around the corner, my guide will help you prepare your air conditioner for efficient and effective operation. Additionally, next year you’ll be able to properly prepare your air conditioner when the cooler weather sets in.
Having installed and maintained hundreds of air con systems throughout Perth, I’m here to share insider tips for keeping your air con system in optimal condition.
Quick Summary:
Simple Steps to Prepare Your Air Conditioner for Summer:
- Clean or replace air filters
- Check and clean the outdoor unit
- Inspect and clean the indoor unit
- Set the thermostat to cooling mode
Simple Steps to Prepare Your Air Conditioner for Winter:
- Clean or replace air filters
- Cover and protect the outdoor unit
- Set the thermostat to heating mode
- Run the system
- Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance at least once a year
Prepare Your Air Conditioner for Summer in Perth
Clean or Replace Air Filters
Filters trap particles and contaminants to keep the circulating indoor air cleaner. Clean air con filters are essential for efficiency, good indoor air quality, energy savings, and comfort.
A dirty or clogged filter will force your air con system to work harder to circulate cool air. This will increase your energy bills and reduce the quality of the air in your home.
Check your air con filter frequently and clean or replace it as needed. You can follow the manufacturer’s filter guidelines but I recommend checking the air con filter once every 3 to 6 months. If you have allergies, kids, or pets, a filter may require more frequent cleaning.
A simple trick I like to use for checking air con filters is pulling out the filter and shining a light on it. You should be able to see through the filter easily when you shine the light on it. If not, the filter needs to be cleaned or replaced.
The exact steps will depend on the model and type of air con system you have, but here are the general steps to clean air conditioning filters:
- Turn off the unit, unplug it, and turn off the associated circuit breaker
- Find the filter (it is usually right behind the blower compartment or return-air grille)
- Take the filter out
- Use a soft-brush attachment on your vacuum to carefully remove any dirt or dust from both sides of the filter
- If you have a washable filter, soak it or rinse it with plain warm water or warm water and a mild detergent (check the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning steps)
- Give the filter a gentle scrub with a soft-bristled brush
- Thoroughly rinse the filter and let it air dry
- Reinstall the cleaned filter
- Close the air con panel and turn the unit back on
If the filter does not come clean or is older than six months, replace the old filter with a new one.
Inspect and Clean the Outdoor Unit
The indoor unit may be your main focus but debris and build up outside can hinder airflow and reduce the effectiveness of your air conditioner.
It is important to regularly check the outdoor unit for accumulated debris, leaves, sticks, or dirt. Removing any debris will ensure proper airflow and support performance.
To clean the outdoor air con unit:
- Make sure there are no loose leaves, sticks, or other debris on the unit
- Take off the grille
- Make sure there are no obstructions around or over the unit, such as tree branches hanging over it or bushes encroaching on it
- Prune back any tree branches, plants, or bushes that are too close to the unit (aim to have at least several feet of clearance on all sides and above the unit)
- Use a hose to clear loose debris or dirt from the surface of the unit
- Always adhere to the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations
Clean the Indoor Unit
For optimal efficiency and performance, the indoor unit needs to be cleaned as well.
Here are the general steps to clean the indoor air conditioner unit:
- Turn off the air conditioner and shut off the circuit breaker connected to your air con system
- Remove the access panel
- Clean the evaporator coils with a coil-specific cleanser and according to the manufacturer’s instructions
- Allow the coils to dry completely before closing the unit back up
- Use a damp cloth to wipe down the surface of the unit
- Use a soft-bristle brush attachment on your vacuum to vacuum any dust off the unit and the vents
Check the Thermostat
Before summer hits, double-check that your air conditioner is set to cooling mode. This is usually represented with a clear label or a snowflake icon.
Make sure the system is circulating cool air and running smoothly. Then, decide on the best air con temperature for your preferences.
For Perth, I recommend setting your air con system to 23℃ – 24℃ for maximum comfort.
If efficiency is your main goal, the best air con temperature for Perth is around 25℃ – 27℃. I’ve found that programming your air con system to this range can save energy while still keeping you cool.
For additional energy savings, I recommend these energy-saving air con tips:
- Close blinds and shades during the day to block sunlight
- Keep doors and windows closed
- Run a fan for additional circulation
- On cooler nights, leave windows open to let in cool, fresh air and close windows during the day
- Set your air con system to only run when you are home
- Use a dehumidifier to reduce your home’s humidity levels
- If your air con system is struggling to cool your home, have it professionally inspected to make sure it is running properly
- Seal gaps in doors and windows with weather strips (this is a great energy saving tip for winter too)
- Invest in cooling sheets for sleeping
- Avoid using your oven on hot days
Prepare Your Air Conditioner for Winter in Perth
Preparing your air conditioner for Perth’s cooler months is especially important if you have a reverse cycle split system.
Just as with summer, the right preparation can ensure your unit works efficiently and keeps your home at a comfortable temperature.
Clean or Replace Air Filters
A clean filter is essential for good air quality and maximum efficiency. Clogged filters with impaired airflow will struggle to heat properly and cost more to run. Dirty filters also cause excess wear and tear on the unit.
Before winter, clean or replace the filters in your air conditioner using the steps mentioned above.
Protect the Outdoor Unit
Protecting the outdoor unit during the winter months depends on the type of air con system you have. For reverse cycle split systems, I recommend covering the unit to protect it from the elements.
However, make sure the cover does not trap moisture as this could cause corrosion and damage to the unit. It can also restrict airflow and reduce efficiency. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for protecting your outdoor air con unit in winter.
I find that a shelter over the outdoor unit is an excellent way to protect it against the elements without trapping moisture or restricting airflow.
Regularly check the outdoor unit to make sure it is clear of debris, sticks, leaves, and dirt.
Check Thermostat Settings
Before the cooler months, switch your reverse cycle air con system to heating mode. This mode should be labelled with a sun or other clear indicator.
The temperature you set your unit to in Perth’s winter months depends on your comfort preferences. Certain temperature settings can maximise efficiency and comfort, saving you money on energy bills.
I usually recommend 18 to 20 degrees Celsius as the most efficient air con setting for winter in Perth.
Run the System
Once the indoor and outdoor units are checked and cleaned and the filters are ready to go, it is important to run the system. Before heavy use, running the system can identify issues so they can be addressed immediately.
Listen for odd noises or humming sounds, make sure heated air is coming out of the unit, and ensure the system runs smoothly.
If you notice any issues, contact a licensed air con technician. Identifying and correcting problems early can save you time and money and ensure your air con system performs as it should.
Schedule Annual Maintenance
High-quality air conditioners are designed to run properly for 15 to 20 years, but neglecting basic maintenance can:
- Cost you more in energy bills since the system has to work harder to heat or cool your home
- Shorten your air con’s lifespan
- Void the system’s warranty
- Increase the chance of the unit breaking down
- Reduce the system’s efficiency
Annual professional checks for your air con system ensure reliability and efficiency. Professional maintenance also reduces the chance of your system breaking down during a scorching summer day.
How Often Should I Schedule Air Conditioning Maintenance?
I recommend getting professional air conditioning service on your system at least once a year. You can choose an annual maintenance schedule that works best for you, but I suggest scheduling it during the cooler months. This is an ideal time to check the unit over to make sure it is prepared for the hot summer months.
At Total Air Conditioning, our professional air conditioning service Perth includes:
- Service by a licenced, in-house service technician, not just a split cleaning franchise without technical experience
- Full observation of functions
- Comprehensive checking and testing all all systems
- Coil and unit cleaning, where required
- Deep filter cleaning and replacement if needed
- Pressure testing
- Re-Gassing
Stay Comfortable Year-Round with Total Air Conditioning Perth
Along with choosing the right air con system for Perth’s climate, it is important to prepare your air conditioner properly for summer and winter temperatures.
In summer, clean or replace the filters, set the temperature to cooling, and inspect and clean the unit. Prepare your air conditioner for the cooler months by cleaning or replacing filters, making sure the outdoor unit is clean, protected, and free of debris, and running the system.
At least once a year, schedule a professional inspection by a licensed air con technician. These steps will keep you comfortable year-round while also maximising your unit’s energy efficiency, performance, and lifespan.
Whether you need a new air con system installed or need a professional inspection, our in-house trained electricians are here for all your air con needs.
At Total Air Conditioning Perth, we offer competitive rates and friendly service to ensure you find the air-con system that meets your needs. We are proudly family-owned and operated and dedicated to making sure Perth families have cost-effective air con solutions.
Our fully licensed and insured electricians provide affordable and professional air conditioning services, including supply, installation, and professional maintenance.
Browse our range of quality split system, ducted, and evaporative air conditioning options or contact us to get your free quote.