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When the summer warmth kicks in, our air conditioners keep us cool, comfortable, and unbothered. Unfortunately, this is not the case for everyone. If you’re struggling with the heat and left wondering why the split system isn’t cooling property, we’re here to help!
At Maroondah Air, we’ve spent more than two decades installing, servicing and repairing split systems across Melbourne. Today, we’re going to share some insights into the most common causes behind why you’re experiencing cooling issues and how to get them fixed.
When your split system air conditioner isn’t cooling properly, the underlying cause can range from simple issues to those that take a little extra attention and knowledge to identify. Whether it’s something as straightforward as the wrong setting or a more complex issue like a refrigerant leak, the key is knowing what to look for.
Here’s a closer look at some of the common causes behind your air con’s lack of cooling.
This might seem like a no-brainer, but sometimes the cause could be as simple as putting the split system on the wrong setting. These days, newer split systems come with a wide range of settings, including heat, cool, and auto, just to name a few. There are also often power saving modes that if activated, may limit the amount of cooling.
So, with all this being said, our first piece of advice would be to double check the setting and make sure it’s on some form of cooling mode. Reading the product manual is another way to find valuable info on this topic!
Clogged air filters will restrict airflow, and this then forces the system to work harder and limits its ability to cool effectively. Over time, this will lead to insufficient cooling and may even leave you with higher energy bills.
This next point is important. Dirty or clogged filters can put a serious strain on the system’s components and if ignored, may lead to larger and more expensive mechanical issues.
Make sure to clean or replace the filters regularly. Aim to do this every 1-3 months, especially during the peak of summer. If you’re unable to reach the unit or simply don’t feel comfortable with this process, reach out to a professional and organise a split system service.
Because of its exposure to the elements, your split system’s outdoor unit can accumulate everything from dirt to leaves and debris. When this happens, it will invariably struggle to expel heat it needs to. Naturally, this then has an impact on the system’s cooling efficiency.
If this issue is left unaddressed, the unit might overheat or even shut down entirely as a safety precaution. This is especially common in areas with lots of greenery or in the aftermath of strong winds and storms.
So, what measures can you take? If you’re able to access the unit (i.e. it’s located on the ground floor), start by cleaning the area around the outdoor unit and remove any debris from the fins. This regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent this issue, as well as extend the overall lifespan of your air conditioner.
Much like low coolant levels in a car, low refrigerant levels or leaks can significantly reduce the cooling performance of your split system. Why? Refrigerant is crucial to the heat exchange process, and without enough of it, the system struggles to produce cold air. Over time, this can cause the compressor to overwork and potentially fail.
The best way to deal with this is to call a professional to check refrigerant levels and repair any leaks. Keep in mind that operating with insufficient refrigerant can damage the entire system, so the sooner you can arrange a service, the better.
Using a split system that’s too small for the space it’s trying to cool can lead to trouble. Notably, the unit may struggle to reach the set temperature and leave you to deal with subpar cooling performance. Over time, this excessive strain can wear down components and shorten the system’s lifespan.
If it’s consistently underperforming, upgrading to a unit designed for your home’s size and layout may be necessary. A professional can assess your cooling needs and recommend the right solution.
Does your air con need professional attention? Maroondah Air is the go-to team for split systems in Malvern, the Mornington Peninsula, and Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs.
Electrical problems, such as faulty wiring or blown fuses, can disrupt your split system’s operation. These issues may cause the system to turn on but fail to cool effectively. Over time, electrical faults can damage critical components like the compressor or circuit board.
If these occur, turn off the system and consult a professional to inspect the wiring and electrical connections. Attempting to fix electrical issues yourself can be dangerous and may void your warranty.
A poorly installed split system may struggle to cool effectively due to incorrect placement, improper refrigerant levels, or inadequate airflow. This problem can start from day one and only worsen over time, leaving you to deal with ongoing frustration and inefficiency.
If you suspect that installation is the root cause of all your issues, contact a licensed heating and cooling technician to take a good look at it. They can help to correct any mistakes and optimise your system for better performance.
Whether it’s suffering from worn down components or technical issues, older air conditioners can experience a range of issues–all of which affect their ability to provide consistent cooling. In this sense, it could be time to invest in a brand new split system.
The good news is that there are so many great brands, units and systems to choose from. You can also lean on our experts for advice and guidance! Simply get in touch with us, arrange a suitable time, and we’ll send a qualified technician to your home or business.
At Maroondah Air, we pride ourselves on delivering reliable and professional air conditioning solutions for homes and businesses across Melbourne. Here’s what sets us apart:
When it comes to split systems in Melbourne, we’re the only name you need to know!
Let us keep you cool and comfortable—contact Maroondah Air for expert air conditioning services you can rely on.
When your split system isn’t working as it should, you’re likely to have a lot of questions. At Maroondah Air, we believe in keeping things simple and transparent for our customers. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we get about split system repairs:
How long does a typical repair take?
The duration of a repair depends on the complexity of the issue. Simple problems like cleaning filters or fixing a wiring fault can often be resolved within an hour. More complex issues, such as replacing major components like the compressor or addressing refrigerant leaks, may take longer—typically a few hours. When you partner with Maroondah Air, you can rest assured that we’ll give you a clear timeline before starting any work.
When is it better to repair versus replace a system?
Deciding between repair and replacement depends on several factors, including the age of the unit, the severity of the issue, and the cost of repairs. As a rule of thumb, if the repair costs exceed 50% of the price of a new system and the unit is over 10 years old, replacement might be the smarter choice. Our team will always provide honest advice, taking into account your budget and the long-term efficiency of the system.
How does the warranty work with repairs?
If your split system is still under warranty, many repair costs might be covered, provided the issue isn’t due to misuse or lack of maintenance. Maroondah Air technicians are fully licensed and qualified to handle warranty repairs for leading brands like Daikin, Panasonic, and Fujitsu. We’ll help you navigate the process and ensure all work complies with the manufacturer’s requirements to keep your warranty intact.
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