Air Conditioning Problems – Cairns, Queensland

The blistering heat of summer can be a sweltering nightmare for anyone, especially if you live in Cairns, or the surrounding Queensland area. A home with a sound AC system can make a world of difference. But what about when you have Air Conditioning Problems and it doesn’t cool well? Cooling problems are often the result of poor maintenance or damage to an older unit. Let’s take a look at some of the causes of poor cooling and address some of the concerns you may have during the summer months.

Check the State of Repair

The first thing needed to assess any required maintenance of any appliance is to look at the machine itself, starting with the exterior. 

Is There Any Damage? 

Exterior damage is easily noticeable and a key sign of potential internal issues. External damage with ACs normally results from an impact.

For ductless/window units, check the mounting brackets that hold the unit up (and the window itself, if applicable). If it has fallen before, it will happen again if the mounts themselves are damaged. Depending on the amount of exterior damage, significant collateral interior damage may have occurred, and the unit may need replacing.

If you find exterior damage on your air conditioner unit, make sure it isn’t leaking any fluids or gasses.

Check around the surrounding area for debris from trees or the building above; a falling tree branch or piece of masonry can both damage your unit and the mounts it sits on.

For larger central air units, as above, check around for fallen debris and create a plan to deal with the issue. Sometimes this can be as simple as installing a metal-framed grate above the unit to protect it while enabling unrestricted airflow. If falling debris is a more serious concern, you may have to move the unit entirely.

Are There Any Fluids Leaking From It?

If your unit is leaking fluid that does not appear to be evaporating, it is most likely water. This means that there is potentially a problem with the drain line, which will require a call to a repair technician.

Replace the Filters

Filters are a vital part of any AC system. They filter and help purify the air they cycle by removing dust, dirt, and microbes. Filters need to be regularly cleaned or replaced, especially in the summer. A clogged filter will lead to reduced efficiency and higher running costs.

Get a Licenced Professional to Assess the Wiring

As with all appliances, check the wiring for signs of fraying or scorching. Not only can this lead to permanent fire damage, but it may also be causing the machine to turn on or off at unintended times, wreaking havoc on the efficiency level.

Cleaning the Unit

Another essential step that most don’t think of right away is thoroughly cleaning the unit’s exterior. Focus on cleaning the coils on the unit to ensure that heat exchange is at maximum efficiency. A garden hose can clean the unit’s coils as long as you take care to prevent any exposed electrical components from getting wet. 

Double-check the condition of the fins on the unit and straighten any bent ones with a fin comb or flat head screwdriver. Take care as these are very delicate and bend easily. Over manipulation can result in broken fins and reduced efficiency. Ensure the ground around the unit is clear of debris like leaves, etc.

Choose the Right Temperature

In Far North Queensland, the most suitable temperature to use is 24C all year round.

Remember that the higher the external temperature, the faster the indoor temperature will rise, causing a higher load on the equipment. Keeping your air conditioner set mid range will help save you money.

If you have Air Conditioning Problems, Consult a Professional

At Siv Air, our qualified technicians have the expertise needed to diagnose and repair faulty systems to get them back to peak performance. We also offer air conditioning services which help to improve the overall efficiency of your system. Regular AC Maintenance flushes out pollutants, dirt and other contaminants that can lurk in your air conditioning unit. 

We know how important it is to keep your home cool and keep your energy bills low. Whether it’s for a small bedroom, large living area or commercial space, Siv Air can not only install but supply you with affordable air conditioning systems from brands you can trust. If it’s time to upgrade that old AC unit, we’ve got you covered.

Contact us to learn more about how our air conditioning services can help you stay cool all year long.