change of season
preparing for WINTER
The Importance and Benefits of Deep Cleaning Your Air Conditioning System After a Long, Hot, Humid Summer ready for Winter Use.
It's been an unusually long and hot summer this year in most parts of Australia so as the scorching days of summer fade into the cooler days of autumn, many homeowners breathe a sigh of relief, thinking they can finally give their air conditioning system a break. However, before you lose the controller to your trusty air conditioner until the winter, there's a crucial step that often gets overlooked: deep cleaning.
This maintenance task is essential to ensure your air conditioning system remains efficient, hygienic, reliable, and ready for action when you need the heating mode for winter and for the next summer to roll around. In this blog, we delve into the significance and benefits of deep cleaning your air conditioner after a long, hot, and humid summer, in preparation for its winter hiatus.
1. Enhanced Air Quality
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Over the summer months, your air conditioner works tirelessly to keep your home cool and comfortable. In doing so, it accumulates dust, pollen, mould spores, and other airborne particles in its filters and ducts.
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Without proper cleaning, these contaminants can linger and recirculate throughout your home when you switch to heating mode in the winter, leading to compromised indoor air quality, health issues and higher energy costs.
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Deep cleaning the air conditioning system removes these accumulated pollutants, ensuring the air circulated in your home during the winter months is clean and healthy.
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Mould loves the dampness of winter and when you use your aircon unit for warmth, the mould, bacteria and smelly odours are spread through your home, bedroom or office. A properly cleaned and sanitised AC unit will eliminate these issues.
2. Improved Energy Efficiency
- A clogged or dirty air conditioner has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, resulting in increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.
- By deep cleaning the system, you remove obstructions such as dirt, debris, and build-up on coils, filters and the fan, allowing air to flow freely and the system to operate efficiently.
- This improved efficiency translates to lower energy costs and reduced environmental impact, contributing to a more sustainable household.
3. Prolonged Lifespan of Equipment
- Regular maintenance, including deep cleaning, is crucial for preserving the longevity of your air conditioning system.
- Accumulated dirt and debris not only hinder the system's performance but can also cause premature wear and tear on components such as fans, motors, and compressors.
- By investing in deep cleaning, you safeguard your investment and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit, delaying the need for costly repairs or replacements.
4. Prevention of Mould and Mildew Growth
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High humidity levels during the summer create an ideal breeding ground for mould and mildew within your air conditioning system and your home or office.
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These microbial contaminants not only compromise air quality but also pose health risks to occupants, particularly those with respiratory issues or allergies.
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Deep cleaning involves disinfecting and sanitising the system, eliminating existing mould and mildew colonies and preventing their recurrence, ensuring a healthier indoor environment.
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Humidity is a key factor in secondary outbreaks on walls, ceilings and even in your closet, affecting clothes, shoes and furniture which can cost a lot of money to replace if not properly treated. A dehumidifier can help as well as an anti-fungal fogging treatment, when done correctly kills the mould and mildew and creates a protective barrier to help prevent future issues.
5. Optimised Comfort and Performance
- A clean air conditioning system operates more effectively, delivering consistent cooling and heating throughout your home.
- By removing blockages and obstructions, deep cleaning restores the system's airflow, preventing uneven temperatures and hot spots and eliminates the potential of water leaks when too much dirt and mould build-up coursing a blockage.
- This optimised performance enhances overall comfort levels within your home, ensuring you stay cozy and content during the chilly winter months.
6. Reduced Risk of Malfunctions and Breakdowns
- Neglecting maintenance, including deep cleaning, increases the likelihood of system malfunctions and breakdowns, especially when transitioning from cooling to heating mode.
- Dirty filters, clogged coils, and malfunctioning components strain the system, leading to operational failures and costly repairs.
- By proactively cleaning and inspecting your air conditioning system at least once per year, you mitigate the risk of unexpected breakdowns, ensuring uninterrupted comfort and peace of mind.
7. Compliance with health and Manufacturer Warranty Requirements
- Many air conditioning manufacturers stipulate regular maintenance, including deep cleaning, as a condition for honouring warranty claims.
- There are also health responsibilities to tenants where mould is present in rental properties, including air Conditioners. Read more about it here: https://www.rta.qld.gov.au/during-a-tenancy/maintenance-and-repairs/mould
- Failure to adhere to these maintenance guidelines could void your warranty, leaving you liable for repair or replacement costs in the event of a malfunction.
- By scheduling routine deep cleaning and maintenance, you not only protect your investment but also maintain compliance with manufacturer requirements, safeguarding your warranty coverage.
Deep cleaning your air conditioning system after a long, hot, humid summer is not merely a recommended chore; it is a vital maintenance task with far-reaching benefits. From enhancing indoor air quality and energy efficiency to prolonging equipment lifespan and optimising comfort, the advantages are undeniable.
By investing time and resources in a professional deep clean of your air conditioner, you not only ensure its readiness for winter use but also reap the rewards of a healthier, more efficient, and reliable HVAC system year-round.
So, before you bid farewell to summer, remember to give your air conditioner the attention it deserves, and it will reward you with years of reliable performance and comfort.
