FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Dirt, Bacteria and Mould Grow in every used Air Conditioner and this affects your health and costs you money.

An air conditioner is among the most essential appliances that we need to make our lives comfortable. They help keep our homes warm and cool when it is cold or hot so that we remain comfortable  Air Conditioning can also decrease humidity levels so we can avoid feeling sticky in summer which is a welcome comfort. But that is not all they do. They purify the air by filtering out smoke particles, mites and odours. Owing to the advancement of technology, manufacturers today design Air conditioners that not only have faster cooling rates but also save up to 60% of your electricity usage. Today’s Air Conditioners also come with anti-dust filters, built-in stabilisers as well as auto adjust temperature features to assist in having a good night’s sleep. But just like other equipment, air conditioners need to be regularly maintained for them to give peak performance.

Heating and cooling professionals say that even if you do not suspect that your air conditioning unit has problems, you need to have it serviced and inspected at least once every year. This will ensure that it operates at maximum efficiency. It will be ready to cool the house in the months when you require it most.

Domestic units need a full deep cleaning every 12 months and cleaning the filters at least once every 90 days. Commercial and Schools should have a full deep clean every 6 months if in constant use and Filters for all air con units cleaned every 3 months if in regular use. 

Please be aware that Indoor Environment Quality Standards Australia (IEQSA) specify that the frequency of decontamination and cleaning split air conditioners should be assessed on a case-by-case basis considering usage, room size and location etc, however “not less than once per year”. This is in accordance with Australian Standard Regulations AS 3666:1989 which stipulates specific maintenance tasks for air-handling systems be inspected and cleaned as necessary.

There are several reasons why air con servicing is very important. 

Maintaining a clean and healthy air conditioning system is imperative due to the amount of time people spend indoors, especially breathing air-conditioned air. Whether at home, in the office, or even at the movies, the air we breathe has a significant impact on our overall well-being. This realisation highlights the importance of regular professional cleaning and maintenance to ensure optimal air quality.

Regular servicing also improves the efficiency of your air conditioner. Experts warn that for every year of operation in which you do not service your air con, it loses 5% of its efficiency. After 3 years the efficiency of your air conditioner will have decreased by 15%. This adversely affects its performance.

Regular air con servicing also finds and addresses small problems that if left, could grow into much bigger problems that are more expensive to repair.

However, the encouraging news is that, with regular maintenance, you can actually recover a high percentage of the lost efficiency. According to research, regular air con servicing will give it 95% of its original efficiency. Thus, the amount of money that you use to service your unit can be recovered very quickly in terms of reduced monthly electricity bills and reduced costs of repair.

An air conditioner that is properly serviced also dehumidifies your home.

Purify Air's main focus is the deep cleaning of all types of air con units, both residential and commercial using a thorough process that involves removing the covers, washing them separately, treating and physically scrubbing all internal components of the air conditioning unit followed by a light pressure wash to flush out all the dirt, mould and foreign matter into a bag so there is no mess, sanitise the entire unit, reassembly and test. Purify Air check the external unit with attention given to the cleanliness of the coil and the insulation on the copper pipes to maximise efficiency and help lower your energy costs.

Learn about our Premium Deep Clean here...

Book your Premium Deep Clean here...

Purify Air con cleaning service operates under the premise of transparency and integrity. We firmly believe in offering comprehensive cleaning services without resorting to the tactic of quoting less for a basic half-clean and then attempting to upsell to a full deep clean once onsite.

Here are the facts behind those cheaper quotes and why our honest & upfront approach sets us apart:

• No Hidden Costs
• Customer Trust and Satisfaction
• Quality Service Delivery
• Value For Money
• Efficiency and Convenience
• Long-Term Benefits
• Professional Reputation
• Ethical Business Practises

By prioritising customer trust and satisfaction, delivering quality service, providing value for money, ensuring efficiency and convenience, delivering long-term benefits, upholding a professional reputation, and adhering to ethical business practices, we set ourselves apart as a reliable and trustworthy partner for all domestic and commercial air conditioning cleaning and Mould Treatment needs.

At Purify Air, we're committed to raising the standard in the air conditioning cleaning industry. With our premium deep clean offered as standard, you can trust that you're getting the best service possible.

Read more about our approach here...

If you suffer from a runny nose, asthma, headaches, flu symptoms, coughing or itchy eyes, then Purify Air, Air Con Cleaning has a solution for you!

The number one issue with having an air conditioner blast cold (or hot) air into your home or workspace is that they are often not cleaned as thoroughly as they should be. Not cleaning the filters can cause many different kinds of bacteria and fungi to accumulate.

Air conditioners can also be a breeding ground for black mould, due to the high amount of moisture that builds up from condensation that’s created with all the cool air that passes through.

All these micro-organisms living soundly in your air conditioner can potentially lead to respiratory problems.

A quick fix for this is to make sure your air conditioning unit is cleaned regularly and that the filter is also cleaned every 3 months.

Allergies can be a source of constant discomfort and annoyance for many people, affecting their quality of life. While allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander are common triggers, an often-overlooked culprit may be lurking right in your home – your air conditioner.

Air conditioning systems are designed to regulate indoor temperature and humidity levels, providing comfort during hot and humid weather. They achieve this by circulating air through a network of ducts, which pass through various filters and cooling coils. However, over time, these components can become clogged with dirt, dust, mould, and other contaminants, leading to several adverse effects on indoor air quality. A dirty air conditioner can exacerbate allergy symptoms and make your indoor environment less comfortable.

Impact on Allergens:

1. Increased allergen circulation
2. Mould Growth
3. Dust Mites
4. Reduced Air Quality

How to fix a dirty air conditioner:

1. Regular maintenance
2. Professional maintenance
3. Maintain proper humidity levels
4. Improve ventilation
5. Consider Air Purifiers
6. Allergen-proof your home
7. Anti-Bacterial, Anti-Fungal, and Anti-Viral Fogging and Hand Spray treatments

Read more about dirty air conditioners and the impact on allergies here...

1. You have a high energy bill. Help reduce your power costs! A clean air con is much more efficient thus using less energy.
2. There is weak airflow coming from your unit. If you have turned your unit on and notice that it isn’t very powerful, this could mean your fan needs a clean. The less air being circulated through the room, means the longer it takes to cool the room down, therefore using a lot more energy.
3. The air coming from your unit has a bad smell. If you can smell a musty odour coming from your unit when you turn it on, this means your unit has a build-up of dirt, mould and bacteria which circulates through the room each and every time you turn on your unit.
4. Your health is being affected. Clean air can help anyone who suffers from asthma, allergies, hay fever and ongoing sinus problems.
5. Your unit isn’t running as efficiently. Keeping your filters regularly cleaned helps greatly with the efficiency of the unit and reduces the amount of dirt getting into the air conditioner. This can reduce your energy costs while also benefitting your health.

Did you know: Regular cleaning of your air con unit can increase its life span saving you thousands of dollars in replacement costs.

An air conditioner is a vital appliance that provides comfort during hot and humid weather and warmth over the cold winter months. To ensure it runs efficiently and lasts for years, regular maintenance and care are essential. By taking proactive measures, you can extend the life of your air conditioner, save money on repairs and power bills, and increase its energy efficiency. The five best ways to achieve these goals are:

1. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
2. Proper Installation
3. Temperature Control and Usage
4. Airflow and Ventilation
5. Protect From Overworking

Read more about each of these points on our blog...

1. Regular Cleaning and Filter Replacement: Tenants are generally responsible for basic, day-to-day maintenance tasks such as cleaning or replacing air filters. Regular cleaning helps prevent the build-up of dust, dirt, and allergens within the system, which can affect indoor air quality and system efficiency. Tenants should be instructed on how often filters need to be cleaned or replaced and provided with clear guidelines for doing so (usually once every 3 or 4 months).

2. Report Maintenance Issues Promptly: Tenants are expected to promptly report any maintenance or performance issues with the air conditioning system to the landlord or property management. This includes issues such as inadequate cooling, unusual noises, or leaks. Timely reporting allows landlords to address problems before they escalate and cause further damage.

3. General Care and Preventive Measures: Tenants should also take general care to ensure that the air conditioning system is not subjected to unnecessary strain. This includes keeping windows and doors closed when the system is running, not blocking air vents or registers, and avoiding excessive temperature fluctuations.

4. Usage and Energy Efficiency: Tenants are responsible for using the air conditioning system in an energy-efficient manner. This involves setting appropriate thermostat temperatures, ideally around 24* in summer. Every degree cooler in summer and every degree warmer in winter adds more and more to the energy costs. Avoid excessive cooling and heating, and be mindful of energy consumption to prevent unnecessary strain on the system and reduce utility costs.

5. Residential Tenant: If the Air Con unit is properly deep cleaned before the start of the tenancy then the tenant should be responsible for the cleaning maintenance of the AC unit after that and in the years following as they are the ones using it. If the previous tenant has not maintained the cleaning and hygiene of the AC unit, it is the Landlord's responsibility they do so before the new tenant moves in. A bond clean only cleans the filters, it does not normally include a proper deep clean of the AC unit.

6. Commercial Tenant: As part of the commercial lease, the tenant of a commercial building is responsible for the cleaning and hygiene of all air conditioning on the premises at least once a year. This includes the filter cleaning and the deep cleaning of the AC units. If the previous tenant has not maintained the cleaning and hygiene of the AC unit, it is the Landlord's responsibility they do so before the new tenant moves in. A bond clean only cleans the filters, it does not normally include a proper deep clean of the AC unit.

Read more about Tenants' Responsibilities in our Blog...

1. Initial Maintenance and Inspection: Landlords are typically responsible for ensuring that the air conditioning system is in proper working condition at the beginning of a lease term. This may involve inspecting and servicing the system, including cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, and verifying the functionality of components.

2. Regular Professional Maintenance: Landlords are generally expected to arrange for regular professional maintenance of the air conditioning system. This maintenance may include lubrication and system inspections by qualified HVAC technicians. Regular maintenance helps extend the lifespan of the system and ensures optimal performance.

3. Repairs and Replacements: Landlords are responsible for addressing major repairs or replacements of the air conditioning system. This includes situations where the system breaks down due to normal wear and tear. Landlords should respond promptly to tenant reports of malfunctioning systems and take appropriate actions to restore functionality.

4. Compliance with Local Regulations: Landlords must ensure that the air conditioning system complies with local regulations and codes. This may include obtaining necessary permits, adhering to safety standards, and meeting energy efficiency requirements.

5. Communication and Documentation: Landlords should provide tenants with clear information regarding air conditioning system operation, maintenance expectations, and emergency contact information for maintenance issues. Proper documentation of maintenance and repairs is essential for accountability and dispute resolution.

Read more about Landlords' Responsibilities in our Blog...

Mould is a common issue in properties, and when left untreated, it can lead to significant problems for tenants, landlords, and property managers alike. The consequences of untreated mould are:

1. Health Implications - For landlords and property managers, neglecting mould issues can result in liability claims from affected tenants. Lawsuits related to mould-induced health problems are not uncommon and can lead to significant financial and reputational damage.
2. Property Damage
3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance - In Qld and most states there are also health responsibilities to tenants where mould is present in rental properties, including air Conditioners: https://www.rta.qld.gov.au/during-a-tenancy/maintenance-and-repairs/mould
4. Responsibilities of Stakeholders
5. Financial Costs -  The financial impact of untreated mould extends beyond repair costs to include potential legal fees, fines, and increased insurance premiums for landlords and property managers. Tenants may incur medical expenses due to mould-related health issues and may seek compensation for damages.

By prioritising mould management, stakeholders can create healthier living spaces, mitigate legal risks, and foster positive tenant-landlord relationships based on trust and accountability. Read more about it here...

As the seasons change and temperatures drop, many homeowners and businesses start thinking about turning on their heating systems. However, before you do so, it's essential to ensure it's clean and free from any harmful bacteria, mould spores, or odours that may have accumulated over the summer months.

While regular maintenance can help prevent some of these issues, it's important to consider having a Purify Air professional Premium Deep Air Con Clean performed before shutting down your unit for the winter or switching it over to heating, to warm your home or business.

Cleaning your air conditioner before switching it over to heating can help improve indoor air quality, increase energy efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your system.

Read more helpful tips on our Winter Preparation Blog...

The transition to warm, hot, and humid weather is inevitable, and it's essential to ensure that your air conditioner is ready to tackle the challenges that come with it. Preparing your AC unit for the change of season is a wise and beneficial investment and can provide numerous benefits:

• Enhanced Comfort
• Improved Indoor Air Quality
• Increased Energy Efficiency
• Extended Lifespan Of Your Air Conditioner
• Cost Savings
• Eco-Friendly Choice
• Health Benefits
• Increased Productivity
• Better Sleep Quality

Getting in early before the summer heat really takes hold ensures a faster turnaround time. Don't wait until the sweltering heat arrives and there is a longer wait to get your air conditioner cleaned due to demand; schedule a professional check-up and maintenance for your air conditioner today to enjoy all these advantages and more.

Read more about these benefits on our Summer Preparation Blog...

Ducted air conditioning systems play a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. However, their efficiency can be compromised if regular maintenance and cleaning are neglected.

Importance Of Regular Maintenance:

• Energy efficiency and cost savings
• Prolonged system lifespan
• Improved air quality

Maintenance Tips:

• Regular filter cleaning / replacement
• Visual inspections
• Professional inspections and cleaning

Ducted aircon cleaning is no different than any other air con cleaning like split system or box units. Domestic units, need to be cleaned and maintained yearly to prevent the build-up of dirt, bacteria and mould. In commercial settings like day cares, offices, gyms, medical centres etc, air conditioning needs to be cleaned and sanitised every 3 to 6 months as it is constantly working and having multiple people breathing in the air through the air con system.

Learn more about maintaining Ducted Systems here...

Air conditioning systems are essential for regulating indoor temperatures and maintaining comfortable living or working spaces. However, these systems can also pose a significant health risk when not maintained correctly, particularly if they become contaminated with mould. Moulds are types of fungi that grow in damp environments and thrive in warm and humid conditions, making air conditioning systems a prime breeding ground for these organisms.

When mould grows inside air conditioning systems, it can lead to serious health problems. The mould spores can spread throughout the building, leading to respiratory problems, allergies, infections, toxins, and other health issues.

Preventing mould growth in air conditioning systems through regular cleaning and sanitisation is crucial for maintaining a healthy indoor environment.

Read more about the Dangers Of Mould In Air Conditioning on our Blog...

1. Regular Cleaning: Regular cleaning of your air conditioning system is essential for preventing mould growth. Make sure to clean the air filters, coils, and ducts regularly to remove any dirt, debris, or moisture that can promote mould growth.

2. Proper ventilation: Good ventilation is essential for preventing mould growth in air conditioning systems. Make sure that your air conditioning system is properly ventilated and consider adding a dehumidifier to reduce humidity levels in the building.

3. Humidity control: Mould thrives in humid environments, so controlling humidity levels is crucial for preventing mould growth. Keep humidity levels below 60% and consider using a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels in the building.

4. Air Purifiers can also play a big role in killing mould, bacteria and viruses that spread through the air we breathe in the spaces where we work and live, helping to reduce mould forming on hard and soft surfaces and in air-conditioning.

Read more about the Dangers Of Mould In Air Conditioning on our Blog...

Air Purifiers are devices designed to improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants, allergens, and contaminants from the air. They work by filtering the air and capturing various particles, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and smoke. While air purifiers can be effective in reducing airborne mould spores and some types of viruses, it is important to understand their limitations and the factors that affect their efficiency.

Mould is a common household problem that thrives in damp and humid environments. Mould spores are tiny, lightweight particles that can become airborne and spread throughout a home, potentially causing health issues such as allergies and respiratory problems.

Air Purifiers equipped with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters can effectively capture mould spores from the air, reducing their presence and the likelihood of mould growth. HEPA filters have a fine mesh that can trap particles as small as 0.3 microns with high efficiency, which includes most mould spores.

However, there are also alternatives to Air Purifiers with HEPA filters only.

Pre-existing and established mould will still need to be removed or cleaned using traditional methods, however, PHI Air Purification is highly effective at preventing further mould growth & spread.

Mould spreads by releasing mould spores into the air. These mould spores travel through the air and land on a new surface to grow.

Mould spores can also cause serious health issues if inhaled, including respiratory issues, coughing, itchy eyes or skin, stuffy nose, wheezing and more.

lt's important to note that Air Purifiers cannot eliminate mould entirely or address the root cause of mould growth, which is moisture. To effectively control mould, it is crucial to identify and address the source of moisture, such as leaks or excess humidity. Additionally, any existing mould infestations should be properly cleaned and remediated by professionals to prevent further spread.

Read more about Air Purifiers on our Blog...

Addressing mould issues proactively is essential for maintaining a healthy living or working space. Purify Air offers a two-part mould mediation process that effectively tackles existing mould and provides a *12-month guarantee. Purify Air first remove the visual Mould and then use their Fogging process using an Australian-made product to eradicate mould and create a protective barrier on hard and soft surfaces. Fogging not only kills mould on contact but also bonds to the surface preventing its recurrence for up to *12 months ensuring long-lasting results.

(*subject to local conditions and adequate ventilation.)

Learn more about Mould Mediation and Fogging here...

Ceiling fans and bathroom exhaust fans play significant roles in maintaining air circulation and reducing humidity in indoor environments. However, they can also have unintended effects, such as spreading mould and bacteria if not properly maintained.

CEILING FANS:

Ceiling fans themselves pick up dust and other airborne particles, especially in more humid conditions and in environments where there are indoor pets and poor external ventilation. Mould can and does grow on fan blades but they can also contribute to mould growth under certain conditions.

Ceiling fans can stir up dust and mould spores that are already present in the air. If a room has existing mould problems, a fan can disperse these spores throughout the space, potentially increasing the spread of mould to other areas.

Dust and dirt can accumulate on ceiling fan blades over time. When the fan is in operation, this dust can be dispersed into the air. If the dust contains mould spores or bacteria, these particles can be spread throughout the room, contributing to indoor air pollution.

BATHROOM EXHAUST FANS:

Bathroom exhaust fans are intended to mitigate mould growth by reducing moisture, but they can also inadvertently contribute to mould problems if not properly maintained.

If the exhaust fan is too small for the bathroom or is not functioning properly, it may not effectively remove enough moisture. Persistent humidity can lead to mould growth on surfaces such as walls, ceilings, and grout.

Over time, bathroom exhaust fans can accumulate dust and debris. If the fan’s filter or vent becomes clogged, its efficiency is reduced, and it may fail to adequately expel humid air. This can create an environment conducive to mould growth.

Ceiling fans and bathroom exhaust fans are valuable tools in maintaining indoor air quality and comfort. However, they can contribute to the spread of mould and bacteria if not properly maintained. Ceiling fans can stir up dust and mould spores, while bathroom exhaust fans are crucial in managing moisture levels to prevent mould growth.

Regular maintenance, including cleaning, sanitising and ensuring proper ventilation, is essential in preventing these fans from becoming sources of indoor air and surface contamination.

To learn what you can do to prevent spreading mould spores and bacteria, read our blog...

Air conditioning systems are essential for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment, particularly in the scorching Australian summers. However, if you've noticed your air conditioner leaking water, it's crucial to address the issue promptly.

Possible Causes:

• Clogged Drain Line
• Refrigerant Issues
• Dirty Air Filters
• Frozen Evaporator Coil
• Damaged / Corroded or Disconnected Drain
• Improper Installation

Implications of Air Conditioner Water Leakage:

• Mould and Mildew Growth
• Reduced Efficiency
• System Damage
• Property Damage

How To Fix A Leaky Air Conditioner:

• Regular Maintenance
• Clear the drain line
• Address refrigerant issues
• Fix or replace the drain pan

Air conditioner water leakage can be a frustrating and costly problem, but by understanding its causes, implications, and solutions, you can ensure a comfortable and efficient indoor environment. Read in more detail on our blog...

Poor air quality in the workplace, particularly from malfunctioning or poorly maintained air conditioning systems, can have significant effects on employee health and productivity. This issue is not just a matter of comfort but has profound implications for business operations, especially in terms of lost days at work due to illness.

Poor air quality can lead to several health problems, including:

• Respiratory Issues
• Allergic Reactions
• Fatigue and Headaches
• Increased Risk Of Infectious Diseases

The economic impact of poor air quality on workplaces can include:

• Increased Absenteeism
• Reduced Productivity
• Employee Turnover
• Legal Risks
• Reputational Damage

To learn how to mitigate these risks, read here...

Purify Air has experienced remarkable growth over the years. Starting with only six franchisees five years ago, the company has expanded to an impressive 24 franchisees nationwide, covering various regions throughout Australia.

From the Gold Coast in Queensland to Perth in Western Australia, and even to Adelaide, Purify Air's coverage extends across the country, ensuring clean air for countless homes and businesses.

Find your nearest Purify Air Franchise Locations here...