As spring arrives in Adelaide, it is the perfect time to prepare your air conditioning system for the warmer months ahead. Regular maintenance is not just about keeping your home comfortable — it plays a crucial role in improving energy efficiency, reducing running costs and prolonging the life of your system.

Neglecting maintenance can lead to reduced performance, higher electricity bills and unexpected breakdowns during peak heat. To help you avoid these headaches, here are expert spring air conditioning maintenance tips to keep your system running smoothly.

1. Clean or Replace Air Filters

Air filters are your system’s first line of defence against dust, pollen, pet hair and other airborne particles. When filters become clogged, airflow is restricted, which forces your system to work harder to cool your home. This not only increases energy consumption but also places unnecessary strain on your system. We recommend you clean or change your filters twice a year.

For homes with pets or allergy sufferers, changing filters more frequently can be especially important. Ideally, filters should be inspected monthly in the spring and replaced every 3 months or according to manufacturer recommendations. Some filters are washable and reusable, but make sure to dry them thoroughly to prevent mould growth.

While it is possible to clean or replace filters yourself, our professional technicians can also inspect the zone motors and ductwork for faults, leaks or blockages that reduce airflow, ensuring your system operates at peak efficiency.

2. Inspect and Clean Vents and Registers

Blocked or dirty vents restrict the flow of cool air into your living spaces and can cause uneven temperature distribution throughout the home. Dust can also harbour allergens and affect indoor air quality.

Use a vacuum with a brush attachment or a damp cloth to clean vents and registers regularly. Be sure to check for any signs of damage or loose fittings, which can cause air leaks.

Professionals can perform a more thorough duct cleaning and sealing service, removing dust, mould and contaminants from inside your ductwork. This prevents recirculation of harmful particles and improves overall system efficiency.

3. Clear Debris Around the Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor condenser unit needs unrestricted airflow to effectively dissipate heat absorbed from inside your home. Leaves, twigs, grass clippings, and dirt can accumulate around or inside the unit over the winter months, blocking the coil and allowing vermin to nest inside.

Before the warmer weather arrives, gently remove any debris using a soft brush or garden hose with low pressure. Avoid using a pressure washer or harsh tools, which could damage delicate fins or electrical components.

Ensure a clearance of at least 30 centimetres around the unit on all sides and trim back any overgrown shrubs or plants. This allows for proper airflow and easy access for servicing.

A professional service can include cleaning the condenser coils, checking the fan motor and ensuring the electrical connections are secure, helping to avoid premature wear and costly repairs.

4. Schedule a Professional Service

While there are several maintenance tasks homeowners can do themselves, a comprehensive spring service by qualified technicians can be beneficial to keep your air conditioning system reliable and efficient.

Professional servicing can include:

• Checking refrigerant levels and identifying leaks, which reduce cooling capacity and can damage the compressor 
• Cleaning evaporator and condenser coils to improve heat exchange efficiency 
• Inspecting electrical components and connections for safety and optimal operation 
• Testing the thermostat and system controls for accurate temperature regulation 
• Lubricating moving parts to reduce friction and wear 
• Assessing overall system performance and advising on any repairs or upgrades 

Regular servicing not only prevents unexpected breakdowns during the summer but also ensures your system meets Australian energy efficiency standards and warranty requirements.

5. Check and Upgrade Zone control systems on your ducted AC

Modern zone control systems like Polyaires’ “Airtouch 5” can drastically help to reduce running costs by allowing 5% incremental control on each zone and even allowing temperature sensors in each room to control the air flow to the desired temperature in each of those rooms separately. They also allow control via app, so when you are out of the house, you can still change the settings to either allow for your return home or turn off when you have forgotten.

6. Look Out for Warning Signs

Early detection of problems can save you significant repair costs and discomfort. Pay attention to:

• Unusual noises such as grinding, rattling or buzzing 
• Reduced airflow or uneven cooling between rooms 
• Strange odours, which could indicate mould or electrical issues 
• Increased energy bills without changes in usage 
• Frequent cycling on and off 

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to arrange a professional inspection promptly. Ignoring them can lead to system failure during the hottest days when you need cooling most.

Why Spring Maintenance Matters

Preparing your air conditioning system for summer through regular maintenance protects your investment and your comfort. It reduces energy consumption, lowers running costs and improves indoor air quality — all essential for Adelaide’s climate.

At Airevolution, our experienced technicians provide thorough servicing tailored to your system’s make and model. We help identify and fix minor issues before they become major problems, ensuring your air conditioning performs reliably when it matters most.

Book your spring service with Airevolution today and enjoy peace of mind all summer long.