With summer approaching, I recommend doing a test run of your system to watch for issues, such as high humidity levels, foul smells, or odd noises.

Signs You Need Split System Maintenance

These common signs to watch for indicate your split system likely needs repairs. In this guide, I’ll cover additional signs to watch for and tips to help prevent future split system problems. 

Key Takeaway: 

5 signs your split system needs repairing include: 

• 1. Unexplained increase in energy bills
• 2. Odd smells or noises
• 3. Lack of cold air
• 4. High humidity levels
• 5. Years of neglect

5 Indicators it’s Time To Repair Your Air-Con!

1. Unexplained Increases in Energy Bills

Have your energy bills jumped without a good explanation? It could be a sign your air conditioner needs repairing. 

If the unit is working harder due to a clogged vent, dirty filter, or a condenser coil issue, it will consume extra energy and cost more to run. 

If you notice higher energy bills without a reason, check to make sure the filter and vents are clean. If the issue continues, your air con system likely needs repairing or replacement. 

You May Also Like: Common Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Split System 

2. Odd Smells or Noises

An efficient split system that is running properly should be odourless and almost silent. If you notice strange noises or odd smells coming from the unit, it is a sign your split system needs repairing. 

Strange noises could indicate debris buildup or loose, damaged components. Loud squealing or grinding noises could indicate a major issue that needs immediate assessment. If you hear loud grating or grinding noises, turn off the system and contact a licensed air con technician immediately. 

If you notice foul smells emitting from your air con unit, it could be a sign of mould or damaged insulation. Mould is highly toxic, making it important to have your unit assessed immediately if you notice odd smells. 

3. Lack of Cold Air

This one may seem obvious but I’m always surprised by how long some people ignore a system that is blowing out warm air. 

If you notice your unit is blowing out air that isn’t as cold as it should be, contact a professional technician right away. This could indicate low refrigerant levels or a compressor issue. 

Having a professional diagnose and repair the issue right away can get your home cool and comfortable again and prevent further costly issues.

4. High Humidity Levels

Running your split system should automatically decrease the humidity levels in your house. If you consistently run your split system but notice the humidity levels are unusually high, it may need to be repaired. 

If the split system is struggling to control humidity levels, it may indicate an issue with the condenser coil, refrigerant levels, or other internal components. 

5. Years of Neglect

For many homeowners, it can be easy to forget about taking care of an air con system that is running smoothly. However, ignoring maintenance and service visits can lead to significant problems. 

If you’ve been lax about cleaning and replacing the filter or if objects are restricting airflow to the unit, it is time to schedule preventive maintenance. Although your air con unit may be functioning for the time being, years of debris buildup on the vents, grill, or internal components can lead to damage. The unit may be able to compensate for months or years but eventually, this damage will likely show up as a major, costly problem.  

If it’s been years since your air con system has been professionally serviced, I recommend scheduling an appointment. 

I always suggest tackling air con problems as soon as there is an issue. Addressing minor problems immediately can prevent costly repairs or a unit that stops working early. 

3 Tips to Maintaining Your Split System

1. Split System Maintenance: Clean the Air Conditioner Filter

Regularly cleaning the air conditioner filter is one of the easiest and most important parts of split system maintenance. The filter traps debris to ensure the air that is released into your home is purified. 

A clogged filter will be forced to work harder and won’t be able to circulate air as well. This results in decreased efficiency and air quality. So along with higher energy bills, the indoor air you breathe for hours every day won’t be as clean. 

A dirty air conditioner filter can also decrease the lifespan of your split system. I recommend checking and cleaning the filter at least once a month. 

To clean the air conditioner filter:

• Remove the filter
• Use a mild detergent and slightly damp microfibre cloth to clean the filter and wipe away dust and debris
• Allow the air conditioner filter to air-dry 
• Once completely dry, reinstall the filter
• If the filter is older than 3 months or excessively dirty, replace it 

Along with checking and cleaning the filter on a monthly basis, filters usually need to be replaced after three months. For higher elevation areas, windy locations, or homes with pets, the air conditioner filter may need to be replaced more frequently. 

2. Split System Maintenance: Cleaning Split System Units

Cleaning split system outdoor and indoor units is another important part of preventing issues. Keeping the system clean helps ensure good airflow, prevent dust accumulation, and promote efficiency.  

Here are tips on cleaning split system units: 

• Keep the indoor unit clear of decorations, furniture, plants, blankets, or curtains that may block airflow around the unit
• Wipe or vacuum the grill, vents, and surface areas regularly to clean away dust and debris
• Do not try to clean internal components — leave that for a professional technician
• Make sure to clean off any leaves, sticks, or branches that fall on the outdoor unit
• Keep bushes or trees near the exterior unit neatly trimmed so nothing restricts airflow
• Use a broom or leaf blower to carefully remove debris from the exterior grill
• Check the manual and run the system’s self-cleaning function if it has one 

For a more detailed look at cleaning split system units, see my guide here: 

Cleaning Your Split System Air Conditioner.

3. Split System Maintenance: Schedule Regular Professional Inspections

While cleaning the filter and wiping any dust off the surface of the unit are important split system maintenance steps, some things require professional attention. Never attempt to clean or service internal AC components. 

Regular professional inspections are one of the most effective ways to keep your split system running efficiently and for as long as possible. 

Just like a car, a split system that is regularly serviced and maintained by a professional will last longer. 

I recommend scheduling an inspection with a licensed air conditioning technician once a year. 

A licensed air con technician will perform:

• Thorough split system cleaning, including all internal components
• Air conditioner filter cleaning or replacement
• An evaluation of motor efficiency
• Ductwork cleaning
• Drain flushing

Learn more about split system maintenance in my guide here: The Best Tips for Maintaining Your Split System Air Conditioner 

Does Your Split System Need Repair or Replacement? Our Licensed Technicians Are Ready to Help

Split system air conditioners are popular in WA for their easy installation, effectiveness, modern design, and high efficiency. 

If you want to schedule split system maintenance before the heat of summer takes over or if you want a free quote on installation, contact Air Cond Installs WA for all your air conditioning needs.