Ducted air conditioning systems are a crowd favourite and have found places in millions of Australian homes thanks to their ability to keep your home cool and comfortable.
Its hidden network of vents, quiet and discreet way of working, area-specific cool, and multiple control points – remote, tablets, smart speakers and phones – have increased its demand over the years.
But like all electrical hardware, ducted air conditioners also undergo wear and tear and need regular maintenance to stay in top shape. Today, let’s look at the top six signs that indicate your ducted air conditioning system needs immediate service from professionals.
6 Signs That Tell Your Ducted Air Conditioning Systems Needs Service
Ducted air conditioners are a comparatively more complex system than split ACs; thus, some problems are unique to them. These issues include:
- Damaged Ducts
Ducts comprise 90 per cent of the ducted air conditioning system and are usually made from rubber or flexible plastic. After months or years of repeated use, these ducts might get damaged, with tears or loose connections, causing air to leak and increasing your power bills as the system has to work twice as hard to cool your home. Such damage not only wastes energy but can also shorten the life of the system. Cracks and gaps can cause moisture to form on the ducts, leading to rusting.
While small damages to ducts can often be repaired, ignoring them might lead to needing complete replacements, which is costly. So, if you notice damaged ducts, call for professionals to service the air conditioner immediately.
- Irregular Airflow in Different Rooms
If you notice that some rooms are too hot while others are too cold, it could mean there’s a problem with your ducted air conditioning system. Ducted air conditioners should make the temperature consistent across your home.
So, if you start feeling uneven temperatures, it’s a sign to check things out. The issue might be caused by blocked ducts or other problems in the air conditioning system.
- Noises Coming From Your Inside the Air Ducts
Ducted air conditioning systems are known for their discreet and quiet ways of working. However, if it starts making loud or strange noises like clunking, banging, or hissing, this could mean there’s a problem coming.
Odd sounds are often the first hint that your ducted air conditioning system needs to be checked. Ignoring these sounds might lead to a small issue becoming an expensive repair.
Ideally, your ducted air conditioner should work so quietly and efficiently that you barely notice it.
- Mouldy Odours
When your air conditioner cools the air, condensation can form inside the system, particularly if it’s cooler than the warmer air around it. This situation can lead to the growth of mould within your system and you may notice a mouldy or musty odour.
During regular maintenance, technicians might also discover mould inside the ducts. If not removed, this mould can worsen allergies and harm respiratory health.
- Unusual or Unpleasant Odours
If you detect any other unusual or unpleasant odours emanating from your ducted air conditioning system it can signal other underlying problems, ranging from pest infestations to mechanical issues.
Foul odours could indicate the presence of rodents or wildlife like possums using ducts as pathways, leaving behind harmful waste and contaminants.
Different smells might point to specific issues; a burning odour could signify mechanical problems, while a musty smell might indicate dampness from a clogged area.
Addressing these odours promptly with professional assistance is crucial.
As with other issues, it is vital that you consult a professional installer or technician to address these issues.
- High Power Bills
Are you surprised by how high your energy bill is each month? This could be a sign that your ducted air conditioning system needs attention. When air conditioners aren’t running well, they have to work harder, which means they use more energy to reach the temperature you want.
This can increase your bills and indicate a problem with your system’s efficiency. Regular air conditioning maintenance can help it run better, saving you energy and money.
Final Word – Getting Professional Servicing Done
Maintaining ducted air conditioning units is crucial due to their high complexity and hidden components.
A minor fault in one area can quickly escalate, affecting other parts and leading to extensive damage. To ensure optimal performance and longevity, it is vital to schedule professional servicing with a qualified technician at least once a year. By prioritising regular maintenance, you can keep your system operating smoothly and efficiently, avoiding costly repairs and ensuring consistent comfort in your home.
