Inside the white cabinet of air conditioners is a complex machine with many working parts. But that's not something you tend to think about - instead, you simply press the button on sweltering days and wait for the room to become pleasantly cool.
The only time you think about its working parts is when something goes wrong with it. Then, you hear a whistling sound, a humming noise, or a humming sound, indicating that your machine isn't too happy. It might still work for now, but for how long?
A pulsating noise or loud buzzing noises like this from your air conditioner is also a permanent distraction when you're trying to watch TV or entertain friends.
Read on to find out why your air conditioner makes loud noises.
Is your air conditioner making a loud buzzing or pulsating noise?
It could be something very minor, like a part that's come loose. Alternatively, it could signal the end of your unit's life cycle. Either way, you shouldn't ignore loud noises or strange noises. A quiet air-con is a happy air-con!
One of the most common causes of a buzzing sound in your air-con is a loose part. An air conditioner unit comprises a compressor, a condenser, a fan, a blower, a grille, and an evaporator, among other things. These parts work in unison to absorb warm air and send cool air into the room.
Buzzing can be caused by a single loose part in your air conditioner, like an isolation foot at the unit's base; equally, it can be caused by a broken compressor or malfunctioning compressor acting alone or impacting the condenser or evaporator.
Since these parts all work in unison, one loose component can affect the entire outdoor unit.
Don't repair too much when a squealing sound occurs. It could be your air-con approaching the end of its cooling cycle. Still, chances are it is no more than loose fan blades, debris in the outdoor unit, a condenser coil that needs to be cleaned, or an air filter that needs to be changed.
Try changing the filter and cleaning the unit - failing that, contact a professional ac repair company to repair your ac immediately.
It's expected that all air conditioners makes some noise.
Air conditioner noises are usually humming sounds as the warm air is absorbed from the room and sent through the condenser for cooling - this is a normal operation. Chances are you're familiar with the natural sound of your air-con, so you will be able to tell when the belt connecting is a little off!
Suppose you hear a broken belt sound that wasn't there previously, or you notice a change in the natural sound of your unit. In that case, it's a strong indication your air-con has a blockage in it or a loose part.
This isn't generally a concern! Your air-con will still operate normally for some time even if the air filter is clogged or the malfunctioning compressor needs some maintenance. Unexpected buzzing can also result from an issue with a broken fan motor, loose wiring, or an electrical voltage issue.
Even though your unit will continue to operate, it will be "at-risk". This is because the fault in your air conditioner will continue to develop and might impact other HVAC system components resulting in safety issues.
It's best to take a peek inside your unit to check for dust - you might want to take this opportunity to change the air filter too. If everything seems normal, but you still hear the buzzing, you will have to contact a professional air conditioner service eventually. Sooner is better than later!
A few strange sounds coming from your air conditioner should never be ignored.
When you first hear a buzzing or a high pitched squealing noise, it means the issue will be minor. While it is easy to ignore this in the short term, it can pose a serious risk to your health if left untreated.
A buzzing sound is probably an issue with electrical components or the air filter. Fixing a few sounds should be easy enough by replacing the filter or calling an HVAC engineer with a replacement part. You need to do this as clogged up air filters can affect air quality and damage your breathing.
A bubbling sound is more serious and should be fixed right away! When you hear a gurgling sound coming from your air conditioner, it indicates an issue with the leaking refrigerant. Most likely, you have a refrigerant leak.
A refrigerant leak in the air conditioner refrigeration unit sends harmful chemicals into the air, leading to breathing difficulties, headaches, and poisoning.
Some people don't want to wait around for the air-con service engineer to arrive. Instead, they want to solve the loud buzzing noise sooner, which should be possible with a few internet "how-to" videos.
If you think the issue isn't too serious and you want to have a go yourself, nothing is stopping you. Read the sections below to find out what the cause is likely to be and how to get started with your DIY project.
Don't forget; there's no shame in giving up and calling in the professionals if the task is a bit beyond you.
The most common cause of air conditioner buzzing is loose parts. Loose parts are usually nuts, bolts, or fan blades. Loose nuts and bolts on parts like the condenser and ac compressor can produce buzzing and rattling sounds, a rattling noise, or cause refrigerant leaks.
These issues are common with a bad compressor unit, but they are also easy to fix! First, open the white cabinet of your air conditioning outside unit and investigate the sound. Next, use a duster to remove any dust build-up and debris.
Finally, check that nothing has fallen into the outdoor ac unit or that nothing has come loose.
Check all the nuts and bolts you can find. Then secure the various parts of the unit to the cabinet to prevent it from buzzing and rattling when operational. If you still have unwanted noise issues contact a professional air-con service for advice.
The primary moving part in an air-con unit is the fan.
There are actually two fans - one to intake air from the room and another to dispense with it in the outside air. Unfortunately, both of these fans can become jammed or clogged, causing that annoying buzz.
There's good news! Cleaning and repairing your air-con fan is super easy; you can do it yourself in a short time with some household cleaning products. First, prepare some soap and water and find a cleaning pad and paintbrush.
Open the cabinet and remove the air vanes (metal grilles used to direct the airflow). Inside you should find the heating and cooling fans along with the air-con impeller. The impeller is the fan blade connected to the air-con condenser fan's motor.
Using soap, water and a paintbrush, remove any dirt, grime, or debris from the fan blades.
An air conditioner unit moves around a lot. The condenser fan's motor that drives the condenser causes the unit to shake, so you need some stability.
This comes in the form of isolation padding that fits onto the damaged isolation feet and copper lines of your air-con unit - these are small rubber feet. Isolation padding prevents your unit from vibrating and causing unwanted noise.
Extra vibrations can also shorten the lifespan of your air-con unit without sound dampening technology or a plastic pad!
Isolation padding comes in different forms depending on your air-con type. If your air-con is wall-mounted, you will have foam padding under the studs on the wall. This can be replaced!
If your air-con is floor-standing, you will have dimple pads underneath its isolation feet. These can also be check and replaced.
Every air-con has a blower motor to power the fans that pull air through the condenser coils. But not every air-con has a fan motor that needs to be lubricated.
Many modern air-cons use motors that don't need lubrication, but it's probably an older unit if it's making a buzzing or rattling sound.
Lubricating the fan motor before each cooling season is a good practice. An air-con is a high capacity machine that needs regular maintenance to ensure it works as it should.
Before lubricating the motor, turn off the power at the mains. Next, open the cabinet, and you should see the motor visible on the underside secured by some loose screws. Remove the screws and find the oil ports on the motor.
Always use oil suitable for air-con motors. Never use engine oil for cars.
If you are still having issues - it's time to call in the experts. Our Brisbane-based air conditioning repairs team are on hand to give you the assistance you need. Call us on 07 3283 5566 or fill out a quick quote to get your air con back up and running!
Modern air conditioning units are complex machines with refrigerant lines; that's why air conditioner technicians require years of training to qualify.
To be on the safe side, it's always best to contact an air conditioner technician for advice or to book a service call. Technicians not only know how to fix your air-con unit properly, but they also know the appropriate safety protocol.
That said, competent people can carry out routine cleaning and minor fixes!
Is your air conditioner making a buzzing sound? This isn't something you should ignore for too long.
The banging noise might not be serious at the outset but indicates a deeper issue with the unit that you need to address, such as a leaky duct or refrigerant leaks!
The best way to identify and resolve the problem is to opt for a service from a qualified HVAC technician.
AC noises and a loud buzz have many causes, and it's hard to pin down the exact problem every time.
One way to prevent indoor ac unit buzzing is to address the most common causes of weird noises when they occur and constitute professional advice if you can't find the answer. First, check you don't have a frozen ac unit or refrigerant line!
Another approach is to have your unit regularly serviced by an HVAC professional at the start of each warm season to prevent costly repairs.
Check out our other guides on common problems below:
My air conditioner heat mode is not working
My air conditioner will not turn on
My air conditioner will not turn off
My air conditioner is sweating inside
My air conditioner is icing up
My air conditioner is blowing hot air
My air conditioner is leaking water
Is the heat mode on your air conditioner not working? Through the winter months, this can be an incredibly frustrating problem. After all, your heat pump system has one job; to keep you toasty warm! But don't worry, there are ways of troubleshooting your heat pump woes.
Although many errors could be happening with your air conditioning system, many of them are quite easy to fix, and you may be able to do it yourself without professional help.
Hopefully, by the time you've finished reading, you'll be a whizz at troubleshooting your air conditioning troubles. From how to identify the issue to dealing with it once and for all, we've got everything you need to know about fixing your heating mode right here!
So, if your heat pump isn't full of hot air, read on to find out how to fix it! Don't forget to check out our handy FAQ section as well to answer those last questions you may have.
Most of the time, an air conditioning unit is associated with cooling, not heating. But in fact, many air con units can be used in cold weather to keep rooms toasty warm.
If you want to save a bit of money and reduce the number of units in your home, an AC unit that functions as a heat pump is a great idea. But how do they work? How does something that's designed to provide cool air also blow warm air? Spoiler alert, it's actually easier than you think!
First, the term heat pump means any appliance that moves heat from one place to another, not one that actually produces warm air. So, in that sense, freezers, refrigerators, and air conditioners are all used as heat pumps as they move the heat somewhere else, keeping the contents cold.
Essentially, a heat pump is a device that can be used for heating and cooling the same space. A heat pump works the same as any air conditioning system, except you can reverse the cycle so that it blows cold air outside and keeps the hot air inside.
The most obvious way to tell if your heating mode isn't working is if you've switched it on, but 60 minutes later, you're still freezing your socks off! However, if you're not using it that much, it can be very easy to miss any issues your unit may have. Here are some common signs to look out for.
If you're noticing that the airflow from your heat pump is pretty sub-par, be sure to check your air filters. A clogged or dirty air filter can cause a lot of trouble and weak airflow could be a sign your compressor is failing.
If that's the case, you may be feeling cool air in certain rooms and not others. Whether it's a compressor or a duct issue, it's a sign that your heat pump needs some repair work.
Are you getting a whiff of something foul? Before you blame the dog, your heat pump could be the culprit! This can be a sign that the wire insulation has burnt out, resulting in some pretty grim smells.
Mouldy smells may indicate that you've got mould inside the ductwork or the unit itself. If so, it needs taking care of straight away as mould can be a health hazard!
Well maintained and functioning heat pumps are meant to operate efficiently and quietly. If yours is creating a lot of noise, it's a sure sign that something's wrong.
If your indoor or outdoor unit is making a lot more noise than usual, it could be a problem with the fan belt, which can affect the unit's efficiency.
So why isn't your heat pump blowing hot air when it should be? Let's take a look at some common issues that can happen.
In heating mode, the outdoor unit has to use liquid refrigerant to get heat from the air. It then sends the refrigerant indoors to heat your rooms.
But, the outdoor unit can find it hard to absorb heat if dust and other debris are blocking the airflow through the outdoor coil.
If the circuit breaker or fuses of the AC unit are broken or defective, then this can severely affect the heating function of your air conditioner.
You may need to switch them back on after they've been tripped or have undergone repairs. If the circuit breaker doesn't work, then the whole unit will be affected. It'll also stop the unit from reaching the set temperature.
If your heat pump is experiencing any issues, don't panic, there are things you can do! For example, if you suspect that your outdoor unit is to blame, give it a good clean and ensure that nothing is blocking the airflow, such as leaves and branches.
Is your heat pump frozen? A properly working heat pump will periodically change to air conditioning mode to defrost the outdoor unit coils. Problems with the defrost mode can be caused by faulty controls or relays. The reversing valve could also be to blame.
To solve this, you can remove light ice and snow that might be blocking the unit. Whatever you do, don't use anything sharp to remove ice as the coils are super delicate and fragile. Use water from a hose to clear snow and ice.
Ultimately, if you're at all worried about the condition of your heat pump, calling in a professional is always the best thing to do. Our friendly and qualified professionals are ready to help you, whatever your heat pump needs
If you are still having issues - it's time to call in the experts. Our Brisbane-based air conditioning repairs team are on hand to give you the assistance you need. Call us on 07 3283 5566 or fill out a quick quote to get your air con back up and running!
There could be many reasons why your indoor unit is blowing cold air instead of warm. It could be as simple as allowing the warm-up operation time to heat up.
Other possible causes include a tripped circuit breaker or that the outdoor unit has no power. If so, you may need to call a professional.
Not necessarily! The most common reason for heat pumps refusing to go into heating mode is because of a faulty reversing valve. This is a valve that's located along the refrigerant line, and it's responsible for changing the direction of the way the refrigerant flows.
In simple terms, this valve is what makes the heat pump different to just an air conditioning unit. Fortunately, broken reversing valves are easy to fix, and they're a commonly found component.
In some circumstances, you can. If it's a case of just giving it a clean and clearing any dust and debris, this can easily be done yourself. However, more serious technical issues are best left to the professionals.
This is because air conditioners can be complex devices, and if you're not sure what you're doing, you may end up making the problem worse! Save yourself time, stress and electric shocks and call one of our qualified technicians!
To prevent future problems with your heat pump, it's always a good idea to have it regularly serviced. This will help pinpoint any potential issues which the technician can repair before they get worse and become more costly!
Read our guides below for more advice on how to fix common issues!
My air conditioner is making a loud buzzing noise
My air conditioner will not turn on
My air conditioner will not turn off
My air conditioner is sweating inside
My air conditioner is icing up
My air conditioner is blowing hot air
My air conditioner is leaking water
Three essentials for a sweltering Aussie summer include thongs, boardies (or a bikini) and a working air conditioner. So what do you do when - all of a sudden - your aircon won’t power up? No matter how many times you jab at the "on" button, absolutely nothing happens.
The situation is far from ideal, but it's one that many Australians commonly find themselves in all the time. Sometimes, an air conditioner system that worked completely fine yesterday won’t even turn on the following day.
The good news is, the problem may be something simple that you can fix yourself. So, before grabbing your phone and frantically calling the closest air conditioning technician with the hope of restoring that icy cold breeze ASAP, have a read of our guide.
We’ve compiled some common reasons that your air conditioner may not be switching on, and how to solve them.
If a once-off tripped air conditioner circuit breaker is the reason that your air conditioning won’t switch on, then you’re in luck. This is a very straightforward problem with the solution being as easy as simply flicking a switch. It’s normal for a circuit breaker to switch off from a power surge in severe weather conditions, like after a storm.
However, if your air conditioner unit is causing your circuit breaker to continuously switch off, then you may be looking at a more serious problem.
A circuit breaker trips when an air conditioners system is using more amps than the breaker is rated for. A circuit breaker that continually switches off could indicate a variety of different problems with your air conditioner.
This problem could range from a dirty air filter or a dirty outside unit, to an issue with the breaker itself, a shorted motor or a faulty compressor.
Head over to your circuit box and check if the switch connected to your AC system has flicked off. If this is the first time this has happened, simply flick the switch back on and - in an ideal situation - your air conditioner should work again without an issue.
If the switch continues to flick off, then there is a bigger issue at hand. You can try changing the air conditioner filter, but for other issues, it’s better to call in a technician from an air conditioning company. A technician can identify exactly what’s wrong with the system and address that problem specifically.
Most air conditioners have a shut-off switch located near the outdoor part of the unit. The switch is usually inside a metal box that will be mounted on the wall. If you’ve recently had some work done on your unit, a technician may have switched the safety switch on while they were doing the repair and forgotten to turn it back off.
Thankfully, there is a very simple solution. Just open up the box and identify the “on” and “off” button. Pull the plug out of the “off” box and pop it into the “on” box. If your Safety switch was set to “off” and you set it “on”, but the unit still doesn’t work then there’s another problem with your system.
An AC float switch is located in the condensate drain line of many air conditioners. Its purpose is to turn the unit off when water begins to accumulate in the drain line. So, if a safety switch is engaged, there’s a good chance you’ve got a drainage problem, specifically in the condensate drain line.
Repairing water damage in an air conditioner can be expensive, so a safety switch is a great way to be notified of the water problem before it causes damage. If your unit doesn’t already have a float switch, it’s a smart idea to have one installed. The devices are simple and cheap and can save you from significant flooding damage, as well as clogged pipes.
In this situation, it’s the safety switch that’s prevented your air-conditioning from working. We can’t stress enough how important it is not to remove the safety switch and continue to run your unit, as water damage can almost be guaranteed.
The best solution for a switched AC float is to notify a technician who can identify where the blockage is and why it’s happening, and then clear it out.
If your AC unit is blowing warm air, or just not responding at all, you can try resetting your air conditioner. Like how Apple technicians constantly recommend a restart when you have a problem with your iPhone or MacBook - an AC reset could be an easy solution to your frustrating problem.
Sometimes an AC system may not fully kick on after a power outage and a reset can help it power up again.
Different models have reset buttons in different positions, but almost all units should have one. These buttons are usually small and red and your AC’s manual should have information about where it is located.
Before hitting the little red button, make sure you unplug your unit from the wall for at least 30 seconds and then plugged it back in. This will also help with powering your unit up again. Once the unit is plugged back in try the reset button for three seconds and then release. Hopefully, your air conditioner will have kicked back on by this point!
If your unit doesn’t have a reset button you can try and reset it manually. To do this shut off the power to the compressor unit. Next, flip the switch off in your breaker box that is connected to the AC unit. Then, unplug the unit from the power supply and leave it for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes you can plug your unit back in and it will have been manually reset.
A faulty thermostat could be the reason that your air conditioner isn’t responding. The thermostat is the main control that talks to the unit to tell it when to start and when to shut down.
If the thermostat screen is blank when you try and power it up, then you can probably assume that the problem is related to the thermostat specifically. However, if the screen still powers on and looks normal, the problem could still be related to the thermostat being faulty.
There could be a variety of reasons behind the fault with your thermostat. If the thermostat is battery powered, try switching out the batteries.
A common mistake with a thermostat is accidentally having the thermostat set to “heat” instead of cool. When set to heat your air conditioner won’t turn on no matter what, so change the mode. You can also try setting the temperature to the lowest possible degrees setting, this may power it back up.
If none of the above solutions work, there may be a deeper issue with your thermostat and it may even need to be replaced. To diagnose this you should call a technician from an air conditioning company who will be able to figure out what the problem is.
A frozen evaporator coil can be the culprit for the reason your air conditioner isn’t working. If your air conditioner powers on but you feel hot air, or no air at all, then a frozen coil could be the root of the problem.
You can easily check if you have a frozen coil by having a look at your unit and seeing if a layer of ice has developed. Unlike condenser coils, which are located on your outdoor unit, evaporator coils are located on your furnace. If you can see ice, then a frozen evaporator coil is likely the problem.
This problem is important to address immediately as a frozen over coil can damage a compressor, which is an expensive fix.
As mentioned above, you can identify whether freezing over is the problem by looking for ice on the unit. If you’ve identified this as your problem, you’ll still need to know exactly what’s causing the unit to freeze.
Evaporator coils usually freeze because of restricted airflow. This could be due to something as simple as a dirty air filter, or something more sinister. There are a variety of reasons that the air flow has been reduced. A technician can identify the problem and restore the airflow.
If your air conditioner is a wall-mounted unit and uses a remote control, then the lock feature may have been accidentally engaged. If this has happened, then your air conditioning unit won’t respond when you try and power it up as the remote is locked to stay in its current setting, which is off.
It’s easy to recognise if this is your problem. Simply check the digital screen of your remote when you hit the "on" button. If a lock icon periodically flashes up, then it’s safe to say you’ve found the issue.
Different air conditioning units and brands have different commands and buttons. Usually, if you hold either the plus (+) and minus (-) buttons, or the higher degree and lower degree buttons, at the same time then it should disengage the lock feature. However, as the commands range it’s best to check your manual to find out how to exit the lock feature.
A blown fuse can be the reason your air conditioning system isn’t responding. A fuse will actually blow as a safety measure, this happens to protect against further damage to your AC unit.
Fuses can blow for a variety of reasons, but one of the most common causes of a blown fuse is when your air conditioning system gets too hot. This often happens when an AC unit is left running for a very long period of time in very hot conditions.
However, this isn’t the only reason for a fuse blowing. A faulty condenser fan, dirty filter, loose electrical connections or a leak can all also be the reasons behind the blown fuse.
Replacing a fuse can be technical as the right fuse needs to be selected and installed properly. Plus, if there’s a bigger reason behind why your fuse blew, then the same thing will happen again.
A fuse blow can be a helpful warning sign of a bigger problem before serious damage is done. For this reason, it’s best to call a technician to identify the source of the problem and replace the fuse.
Most modern AC units should have a red reset button located somewhere on the unit. To quickly find out where this button is located, consult your manual.
If your unit doesn't have a reset button, you can also trigger a manual reset. Do this by following these simple steps:
A blown fuse is a common cause behind a non-responsive air conditioner. However, a fuse that has blown is usually a symptom of a bigger problem.
It's important to get to the root of the problem and find out why the fuse blew in the first place so that you can identify what needs to be repaired.
Unfortunately, a fuse that has blown could indicate a number of different problems, from a faulty condenser fan to loose electrical connections and more.
If you are still having issues - it's time to call in the experts. Our Brisbane-based air conditioning repairs team are on hand to give you the assistance you need. Call us on 07 3283 5566 or fill out a quick quote to get your air conditioner back up and running!
Check out our other guides on common problems below:
My air conditioner heat mode is not working
My air conditioner will not turn off
My air conditioner is making a loud buzzing noise
My air conditioner is sweating inside
My air conditioner is icing up
My air conditioner is blowing hot air
My air conditioner is leaking water
If you’ve ever noticed beads of water collecting around an air conditioner system or pipes, or seen water slowly dripping from your AC unit then you’ve likely experienced the dreaded 'air conditioner sweat'. While a small amount of condensation on an ac system is normal, dozens of droplets or water drips certainly is not - and can often indicate a bigger problem with your system. If you've noticed some droplets on your unit and are curious as to whether this is normal or problematic - read on to learn more.
Air conditioner sweat is condensation that occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with the cold surface of an AC duct. Air conditioner sweat happens when the air temperature is below the dew point temperature. The dew point temperature is the temperature at which water vapour will start to form.
The excess moisture - or air conditioner sweat - created can also lead to damage to your walls, termites and mould.
Firstly, the question that needs to be asked is why is your air conditioner in contact with warm, moist air when the room should be cooled by the air conditioner?
The answer can be a variety of reasons. Often, air conditioner sweat can be harmless and could be something as simple as a window left cracked open, letting in outside air. But, sometimes air conditioner swear can be a symptom of something more serious issue in your HVAC system.
To help you identify what’s causing your air conditioner to sweat and to figure out how to rectify the problem, read through the points below.
Though you may not be aware of them, if your air conditioner duct is sweating there may be a chance that there is a small space or cracks in the room where outside air can creep in. This is especially true if you live in a humid area.
If you’re experiencing AC sweat, then a good place to start is by checking for small gaps where outside air can enter. When the hot, humid air mixes with the cold air of the AC unit, condensation forms.
If the condensation is caused by outside air getting in, then the fix is relatively simple - obstruct the outside air from entering. If you’re unable to seal up the gaps you can try placing a fan in the room, this will circulate air flow around to keep it cooler.
To understand how temperature can affect condensation, you must first understand what relative humidity is. Put simply, relative humidity is a figure that says how much water vapor is in the air, compared to how much it could hold at that temperature. You’ve probably seen this on a weather channel when the percentage of humidity in the forecast is shown.
For each relative humidity percentage, there is a value below that figure where condensation will start. So, if you live in a humid area and set your ducted air conditioner unit to a low degree, it’s likely to form condensation - or AC sweat. This type of AC sweat isn’t a problem but can cause damage to walls when it drips.
There are a number of ways in which air flow can be restricted, these include a blocked duct, a backed-up condensation line, dirty filters or frozen evaporator coils. When airflow is reduced, the temperature of the air goes below the dew point and causes sweating.
In this case, the AC sweating is a symptom of another problem with your unit. It’s best to get an air conditioning technician in to find exactly what is wrong with the system so that it can be fixed and your AC can be restored to its full potential.
When an aircon duct is installed without the correct amount of insulation, it can be the cause of the air conditioning sweat. Insulation can help to prevent sweating because it reduces the temperature of the vents and ducts.
Without insulation, the vents and ducts can become very cold when the AC unit is running and will cause the surrounding air to collect in the ducts and cause condensation.
Alternatively, too much roof insulation can cause a room to become too warm, which can also cause sweating.
A good technician will be able to advise you about how thick the insulation should be for the area you’d like to install a duct.
A plugged drain line can have a devastating effect on a house and in extreme cases, even cause the roof to cave in.
Air conditioners have a drip tray that catches condensation from the humid outside air and drains the water droplets down through condensation lines and out of your room. A drain line can become plugged for a variety of reasons, like getting debris, dust, hair or grime caught in the line, which can block the water from draining out.
When this happens water can build up in the ceiling. In minor cases, homeowners will just experience a small drip. However, if your ceiling is dripping near an aircon vent it’s important to take this as a warning sign and call an HVAC technician. If too much water builds up, then the weight and pressure can cause the ceiling to collapse.
While we've touched on some common possible causes for AC sweat, there are many more problems that can be the reasons for condensation in your ducted air conditioner. While some condensation can be harmless and is to be expected, sometimes it can indicate an imminent problem.
Much like when a unit is blowing out hot air or frozen over, sweat on an air conditioner unit can be a symptom of something bigger. If your unit is dripping water out of it, then the sooner you call a technician to come and check it out, you'll likely save a lot of money. If you wait too long the problem may get bigger and end up costing a lot more in the long run.
Mild condensation on an AC unit shouldn’t be too much of a cause for concern. In fact, a small amount of condensation on a running air conditioner is completely normal.
However, if the sweating is very obvious then it could well be a sign that there’s a problem with your system. So, to be safe, if you notice any condensation on your unit, it’s a good idea to get it checked out by a professional.
As outlined in the information above, in a healthy air conditioning unit, the amount of condensation can directly be correlated to the humidity of your environment. If the air is more humid, more condensation can be expected.
Even in a non-humid environment, small beads of sweat on your air conditioner are normal. But, if your AC unit is dripping any water down walls and/or onto the floor, then this is a sign of a problem and can signify that it’s time to call a professional.
If you are still having issues - it's time to call in the experts. Our Brisbane-based air conditioning repairs team are on hand to give you the assistance you need. Call us on 07 3283 5566 or fill out a quick quote to get your air con back up and running!
Check out our other guides on common problems below:
My air conditioner heat mode is not working
My air conditioner will not turn off
My air conditioner is making a loud buzzing noise
My air conditioner is not turning on
My air conditioner is icing up
My air conditioner is blowing hot air
My air conditioner is leaking water
Firing up your AC and flopping on the couch after a long, hard day at work is a truly satisfying feeling. That is, until the satisfaction is completely ruined by a pungent smell that begins to escape your AC unit and quickly wafting around the room.
Unfortunately, the reality of a stinky air conditioning unit is all but too real. A fully functional unit should be odorless, so if you’re smelling anything odd at all when you turn on your air conditioner, it’s more than likely a signal that you have a problem with it.
However, pinpointing exactly what’s wrong with your air conditioning system can be tricky. Different sorts of smells can signify different problems within the unit. Below we’ve broken down some of the most common air conditioning smells and what they could mean.
The mere mention of the smell of rotten eggs can be enough to turn most people’s stomachs, so having that particular smell blasting out of your air conditioning is a truly dire situation.
If you’ve found yourself in this spot, there are two likely reasons that your air conditioning unit is emitting an unpleasant odor.
Firstly, it could be a gas leak. A leak is a serious health threat and should be addressed immediately. A gas leak can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which can cause brain damage, heart problems and, in extreme cases, can be fatal.
If you’ve noticed your air conditioning giving off a smell akin to rotten eggs, firstly open up all the windows and doors in the room for ventilation and then turn off the unit. It would be a good idea to turn off the home’s gas connection at the mains for a short period of time to be safe, too. Next, call a professional air con technician to identify and rectify the problem.
A less dangerous cause of a rotten egg smell coming from your air conditioner could be a dead insect or small animal inside the unit. Insects and other small animals can crawl into your unit and get trapped, before eventually dying.
If the cause of the smell is a dead animal, a technician can diagnose this and easily fish out the critter. You can take steps to prevent this from happening by pest proofing your air conditioner.
The smell of mould coming from an air conditioning unit is a common complaint, especially in humid areas. The cause of the smell is pretty self explanatory, it’s likely that your unit has accumulated mould from stagnant water.
All air-conditioning units have a drainage system that collects drops of condensed water and filters them out. However, when a drain is clogged this water won’t filter out and can accumulate and become a breeding ground for bacteria.
If you have an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system installed in your home, mould can become an even bigger problem as it can spread through the air conditioning ducts onto everything else. If this is the case, then your best bet is to promptly call an HVAC technician to examine your system before things escalate.
Breathing in mould can cause major health issues like pneumonia, bronchitis and asthma attacks, amongst others. It also negatively affects indoor air quality. So, if you find yourself getting a whiff of a mouldy smell when switching on your AC, make sure you get it checked out.
The smell of burning when switching on your air conditioner can be a dangerous sign. It could indicate that there are wiring issues, a mechanical problem with your air conditioning fan motor or compressor, or an electrical component failure.
However, the burning smell could also be something as simple as dust burning off. To figure out whether you have a big problem at hand, switch your aircon on for twenty minutes. If the smell remains after that time then it’s likely you have a mechanical failure which could short the system or, worse, start a fire.
Smoking cigarettes inside is a likely culprit for the reason your unit may be smelling like nicotine. The bad smell can pass through the air filter and make its way up into the evaporator coil, so when the AC unit is next used it will push out the smell for a long time.
Cigarette residue tends to build up and while this smell isn’t a dangerous risk, it’s also not very pleasant. You can rectify the problem by switching out the dirty filters or calling a technician for a professional clean.
No-one wants the foul smell of feet wafting into their home and affecting the air quality when switching on their air conditioner. However, this type of bad smell is so common that workers in the AC industry have even made a slang term for it, “dirty socks syndrome”.
This smell is usually associated with stagnant water that’s been trapped inside the unit by a fault in the drainage system. A professional technician will be able to diagnose the drainage issue and ensure that water flows through smoothly again.
It may be obvious, but a chemical smell emanating from your air con is a dangerous sign. Air conditioners use a range of different fluids and chemicals, and the presence of a smell could mean that any of these are leaking.
A chemical odor could also mean that the refrigerant gas is leaking. Refrigerant gas is a coolant that's used in reverse cycle air conditioners and can be harmful to both your health and the environment.
When refrigerant gas is deeply inhaled it can cut off vital oxygen to your cells and lung. Even a small amount of refrigerant gas can cause mild health problems like a headache, nausea, dizziness and irritation of your eyes, ears and throat.
The smell of sewerage wafting through your bedroom or living area probably sits pretty high on a list of things that are unenjoyable. This certain smell usually means a backed up sewer line or ruptured sewer vent pipe.
Methane gases from the sewerage can leak into the duct work of your air conditioner. If this happens, it can cause a serious health hazard. Methane gases can be dangerous and high concentrations can displace oxygen in the air.
Alternatively, the putrid smell may also be an indication that there is a dead animal in your air conditioner. Small animals or insects may climb inside the vents when they are sick or injured and eventually die in there. The decomposition of their bodies can create a rotten smell, similar to the smell of sewerage. A trained professional can easily remove the animal or insect and improve your indoor air quality.
While a foul smell being emitted from your air conditioner doesn't necessarily mean a health hazard, there's a good chance that there's something wrong with your unit. On the other hand, many smells coming from an air conditioner can be seriously dangerous, so it's a good idea to have air conditioner smells checked out as soon as they begin.
Many people think that spraying a disinfectant like Lysol into an air conditioner is a sure fire way to kill germs and neutralise any nasty smells. However, we can not stress enough how dangerous doing this can be. Lysol is highly flammable due to its high ethanol alcohol concentration. If the disinfectant comes into contact with the electric motor it can create a flash explosion that can start an electrical fire.
If you are still having issues - it's time to call in the experts. Our Brisbane-based air conditioning repairs team are on hand to give you the assistance you need. Call us on 07 3283 5566 or fill out a quick quote to get your air con back up and running!
Check out our other guides on common problems below:
My air conditioner heat mode is not working
My air conditioner will not turn off
My air conditioner is making a loud buzzing noise
My air conditioner is not turning on
My air conditioner is icing up
My air conditioner is blowing hot air
My air conditioner is leaking water
My air conditioner is sweating inside
While the main function of an air conditioner is to provide a cold environment, if an air-conditioning system is producing ice it can actually be detrimental to the unit. As ironic as it seems, a unit freezing over could break the entire system and can actually turn your ice-cold day into a sweltering hot, AC-free one.
If you’ve spotted icicles on the coils on the outdoor unit of your air conditioning system, then it’s likely that your aircon unit is freezing up and well on its way to seizing up. Not to mention, you're probably feeling warm air blowing from your system.
To avoid the problem escalating further and causing a huge dent in your pocket, take a look at our checklist of what could be causing the problem.
One of the most common causes of a frozen air conditioner is insufficient air flow. There are numerous ways that the air flow can be obstructed, but it frequently comes down to blocked or clogged air filters.
An aircon filter collects dust and debris and if it’s not changed in due time, it will prevent sufficient air from flowing through the evaporator coils. In this scenario, a coil will begin to develop an ice layer that will continue to grow into a thick sheet of ice until the problem is solved.
It is recommended to change your air filter every ninety days. Although replacing an air filter may sound straightforward, there are many different styles, types and sizes of air filters on the market. So, if you’re not familiar with AC units it can become confusing. Rather than damaging any expensive parts, it’s a better idea to get an air con technician to come over and quickly change the air filter for you.
Another way that the air flow can be obstructed - resulting in a frozen AC unit - is through something as simple as furniture placement.
A tall piece of furniture, like a large wardrobe or a curtain, positioned on or over a vent will block adequate air flow and, consequently, result in your air conditioner freezing up.
If this is the case, the answer is as simple as rearranging your room to make sure the vent is obstruction-free so that it can achieve adequate air flow.
Air conditioner systems have a drip tray that catches condensation from the humid outside air and prevents it from dripping out of the system onto your walls. In a functional unit, the water is eventually drained down through condensation lines and out of your room.
However, when water becomes stuck in the line it will freeze over, causing a clog. When a line freezes over, the subsequent evaporator coil also freezes over which is detrimental to a unit. The frozen evaporator coils and lines can restrict air flow and cause air conditioners to struggle or not work at all.
These clogs can happen from something as simple as debris, dust, hair or grime being caught in the lines.
To avoid a dirty evaporator coil and clogged lines, it’s important to schedule -or undertake - a regular clean of the drip tray, condensation lines and evaporator coils.
One of the common culprits for a dysfunctional AC unit is low refrigerant levels. While simply topping up the refrigerant may seem like an easy fix, as we’ve delved into in other articles, a lack of refrigerant is usually a symptom of a deeper problem in the unit.
Air conditioners operate on a closed-loop system, so they shouldn’t need topping up and low refrigerant levels often signify a leak within the AC unit.
The icy build-up happens when a unit attempts to operate with less refrigerant than intended, which causes a drop in pressure. In turn, the dip in pressure forces evaporator coil temperatures to dip below freezing. The low temperature then causes water vapor to freeze onto the surface of the coil and generates the ice.
So, if refrigerant levels are the reasons for your AC unit freezing over, it’s very important to undertake a thorough check for any leaks through the system.
The most complex problem associated with an aircon freezing over is mechanical issues.
Some common mechanical issues include a slow or faulty fan, a problem with the electronic control board or a defective thermostat.
Malfunctioning physical parts of an air-conditioning unit can restrict airflow and cause the system to work overtime. This can cause permanent damage to both the parts and the entire system.
When there is a problem with the physical parts of your air conditioning, it’s time to call in the professionals. Changing mechanical parts can be technical and taking to your unit with tools and attempting to fix it yourself can often leave you in an even bigger mess than you began with.
As tempting as it may be to head out and switch your air conditioner on with the intention of coming home to a cool room, it can damage the internal parts of the unit and shorten the system's life.
If you don't see that as too big of an issue, then it's generally safe to leave your AC running all day long. Air conditioning units are built under strict safety measures and should not cause a fire.
However, running an aircon all day will surely increase your electricity bills. Most modern air conditions have a timer function, so you can pre-set the unit to turn on shortly before you're due home.
At the sight of icicles on the outdoor unit of your air conditioner, pouring hot water on them to defrost may seem like an easy fix.
To instantly melt the ice it is okay to pour hot water directly on the site, but make sure the AC is disconnected from the main power source and that the water is only poured on the evaporator coils.
However, do keep in mind that when an AC unit freezes, it is signifying that something is wrong with the system and it's important to get to the root of the problem.
If you are still having issues - it's time to call in the experts. Our Brisbane-based air conditioning repairs team are on hand to give you the assistance you need. Call us on 07 3283 5566 or fill out a quick quote to get your air con back up and running!
Check out our other guides on common problems below:
My air conditioner heat mode is not working
My air conditioner will not turn off
My air conditioner is making a loud buzzing noise
My air conditioner is not turning on
My air conditioner is sweating inside
My air conditioner is blowing hot air
My air conditioner is leaking water
Tossing and turning through a night of restless sleep and waking up in a pool of sweat - while your air conditioning system is blasting - is a seriously frustrating experience. Matters are only made worse as you furiously poke at the turbo button in hope of drifting off into a chilly slumber. If you’ve found yourself in this situation and are wondering why your air conditioning system is blowing warm air, then you’ve come to the right place. There can be a number of factors affecting your air conditioning unit. While some solutions are quite simple, other matters can be more serious and may become expensive if the problem is left lingering. Here, we run through some troubleshooting steps that homeowners can undertake to ensure their air-conditioning unit is working to its fullest potential.
Having the wrong setting on a thermostat may seem obvious, however, it’s actually a common callout for customers whose air conditioning is blowing warm air. There are a number of settings that affect how cold your air conditioner is, but the most common is when a thermostat is set to heat, rather than cool. While the numerical temperature on the thermostat may be set low, if the setting is on heat you’ll be sending the cold air outside, and keeping the warm air inside.
Another lesser known trick for adjusting your thermostat to ensure cool air is being distributed is setting the air conditioning fan to ‘auto’ rather than ‘on’. If the ‘on’ option is engaged, then the unit will be running all the time - not just during the cooling cycle. This means that when the unit isn’t in the cooling cycle, it will be blowing out room temperature air and likely heating up a room.
The ‘auto’ setting means that the fan will only work with the room is being cooled. By ensuring your thermostat is set to ‘auto’ and not ‘cool’ you’ll keep both the temperature of a room - and your power bill - down.
If your air conditioner's blowing hot air because of a depletion of refrigerant, then this is likely a symptom of the problem, rather than the cause. Air conditioners operate on a closed loop system, so if your refrigerant is empty, there is a good chance there is a refrigerant leak somewhere in the system.
For this reason, it’s important to never trust a technician who simply tops up the refrigerant and assures the problem is fixed. A competent air conditioning technician should recognise that a lack of refrigerant is evidence that there is another problem with the air conditioner and undertake a full analysis to identify the issue.
Dirty air conditioner condenser coils can be a simple reason as to why your system is blowing hot air. Because the coils are located on the outdoor unit of your air conditioner, they are prone to getting dirty from dust, debris and other elements from the outdoor environment.
A coating of dirt on your air conditioner coils will insulate the coils from the surrounding air and reduce the efficiency of the heat transfer process.
Aside from not keeping your home as cool as you'd like, dirty air conditioner coils can create more negative problems. If dirty coils aren’t cleaned regularly, it can cause your air conditioners to work harder than normal and could result in your entire unit breaking down.
Air conditioner condenser coils should be cleaned at least once a year to ensure your unit works effectively. While this may sound simple, the condenser coils on an outdoor unit are extremely delicate and can easily be damaged if they’re not handled correctly. For a technician, this is a simple and straightforward job that can be carried out in a few hours.
A dirty air conditioner filter is another uncomplicated issue that may be causing air conditioners to blow warm air. Generally, filters should be changed approximately every 90 days.
Over time, an air filter will build up dirt that has been circulated through your system. This will cause a clog and, as a result, cold air will be trapped inside your air conditioner, causing ice to form on its coils. When this happens your air conditioner can freeze up and become inoperable.
An air filter will also catch allergens, like pollen, spores and dander, as well as bacteria. If the filter isn’t regularly cleaned out then, not long will it blow warm air, but these allergens will cause bad air quality and this can lead to physical symptoms, like sneezing, red eyes and congestion.
Changing a filter can be quite straightforward. However, many people don’t have the first idea of where to start when it comes to change a filter - or where to get the new filter from. A technician can quickly and easily change the filter for you.
The definitive answer to this question is a big yes. As discussed above, there is a myriad of reasons as to why your AC system may not be blowing hot air. Regardless of the specific problem, if your unit isn’t working effectively it’s likely to be working harder than normal in an attempt to cool down a room. The extra energy exerted from the unit won’t just cost you more in energy bills, it can put stress on the system which could cause a costly breakdown.
A faulty air conditioning system can often be due to a tripped circuit breaker. If you’re lucky, a simple reset of your AC system may be all you need to do to get it functioning at full potential again. To reset your unit follow the following steps:
If you are still having issues with your air conditioner blowing warm air - it's time to call in the experts. Our Brisbane-based air conditioning repairs team are on hand to give you the assistance you need. Call us on 07 3283 5566 or fill out a quick quote to get your air con back up and running!
Check out our other guides on common problems below:
My air conditioner heat mode is not working
My air conditioner will not turn off
My air conditioner is making a loud buzzing noise
My air conditioner is not turning on
My air conditioner is sweating inside
My air conditioner is icing up
My air conditioner is leaking water
With rising temperatures and the prospect of a sweaty summer night beckoning, there's never been a better time to start thinking about your split system air conditioner installation cost. Climate control is key to a better nights sleep and can even add value to your home.
The Australian refrigeration council is the governing body when it comes to air conditioning installers, so it is vital to ensure your air conditioning expert is a fully certified air conditioning specialist.
Air conditioning installers fit split systems more than any other units, with these devices being the most popular type and for a good reason.
A split air conditioner is any air conditioning unit with two separate parts, with one being on the inside and the other being on the outside of the home. Copper pipes and cables connect the split system. The unit's exterior section contains the compressor and stays on the outside of your home, while the interior unit will remain inside your house and is the place cool air is filtered into the room.
One of the key advantages that come with a split system is that the compressor remains outside. In any air conditioning system, the compressor is the loudest part of the unit. The downside is that a split system unit isn't the most attractive, with a bulky exterior fan seen outside your house.
Compared to floor-standing systems, split system air conditioners are great in saving space and efficiency. They can be operated by a remote device that can keep track of temperatures, the power of the fan, and some other features such as any timers, night mode, and climate control.
As well as the split system, there are two other models that you can purchase, a freestanding/portable air conditioning unit or ducted air conditioning unit, also known as a central air conditioner.
A free-standing system works just the same as a plug-in heater. All you need to do is buy it, place it in the location of choice, and connect it via a power outlet. Out of the 3 available air conditioners, this is the cheapest option and is a great choice for small rooms. The small size and portability allow you to move this unit around the room to where it is needed the most.
A downside is that being a floor unit, they can take up space in your home and become a bit of an eyesore compared to a wall-mounted or ducted system. Additionally, a freestanding system isn't as efficient as other models available, but the low installation cost is the main attraction.
The ducted air conditioning unit is the most expensive out of the three available, but it comes with some key features and a sense of discreetness you don't find with other models. Similarly to a split system, they work in the same way, with the main difference being that cool air is filtered via the ceiling duct of your home.
Within your home, there should e several outlets that all connect to the same central unit allowing you to control the temperature of your home in an efficient manner. Similarly to a split system, a ducted air conditioner can also individually control different available outlets.
The bigger your space, the more money it is going to cost to cool down. You need a system to treat your entire room. The general space to air ratio is around 1-ton air con units for every 400 sq feet of space you have. For example, if you had a room of 16m², you would need an air conditioning system of around 1/2 ton.
The ton reference in air conditioning isn't regarding the weight, but the amount of air that the air conditioning system can remove in an hour. When it comes to your unit's size to the space ratio, this equates to how many units you will need in your home per room.
Air conditioner cost will be lower if you choose a less expensive unit that doesn't have as many features, but spending that little extra provides you with some added extras that you may not want to live without.
A more sophisticated air conditioning unit will keep your energy bills low with its efficient use and also include some added features such as:
When it comes to unit cost, the prices vary between all the different air conditioning units available. The cheapest available is the portable versions ranging between $300-$1300 for the unit with no need for air conditioning installer costs. A great choice for anyone renting who doesn't have the option t mount things to the wall or make structural changes.
The most common air conditioning type in Australia is split systems. Great for open plan living but have a higher cost to install and purchase, ranging between $600 and $5500.
Ducted air conditioner installers are great in bringing discreetness to your home. The cost is the most expensive, with the process starting around $5000, but it can be way above $10,000 for home installation. If you want full control of the climate of your home, then this extra cost is necessary.
Labour and supply costs will vary in different areas of Australia, but the general cost break down will follow such as:
With prices falling in the middle category for split systems to be bought and fitted by an air conditioning installer, there's no surprise that this type is so popular in Australia. With the compressor unit sitting on the building's exterior, you are given all the cooling positives you desire without the sound a condenser brings. Great for all kinds of homes and our favourite when it comes to bringing better-conditioned air and climate control into your home.
The cost of split system installation can change with different variables affecting the overall cost. According to certain websites, the standard price you can expect to pay for this kind of installation will fall between $600 and $5400. Licensed technicians should always complete this installation, and you will also have to pay the additional cost of the unit price.
If your home is open plan with the kitchen and living room being one big space, installing a split system is the best choice. With the condenser being an outdoor unit, these systems are not only quiet, but energy efficient. They may not be the most attractive but are a great choice for open floor plan homes.
Split-system installation shouldn't be fully completed by yourself. It would be best if you always used registered air conditioning companies. This being said, you may be able to partially install your air conditioning unit, such as mounting the external and internal units and feeding the copper pipes between the two. When this is finished, you should have a professional installer complete the rest of the installation to fit correctly.
If you do not have your air conditioning installation completed by a professional, you could potentially harm your property, invalidate your home insurance, and incur more costs at a later date.
Split-system installation comes with lots of benefits that can help you in your home. Here are just a few that you can expect from split-system air conditioning installation:
Are you in search of a new air conditioner? Maybe your current unit is on its last legs and you're desperately looking for a replacement? If you haven't purchased one in a while you may be a bit overwhelmed when you realise just how many air conditioner types there are!
Which one do you pick? What are the different types of air conditioning units and what do they do? It can be very confusing knowing which one to pick but don't worry, that's where this useful blog steps in to help.
Read our useful buying guide and you'll know exactly what to look for when buying your new AC unit! From energy consumption to maintenance and air conditioning installation, we've covered some important factors to consider before making your final choice.
Even better, we've explained the types of air conditioning units and listed the pros and cons so you know whether you're buying the right system. Want to know more? Then let's jump straight in!
Before you rush out and buy your new air conditioner, there are a few essential things to think about. We've covered the most important factors to think about below, so be sure to keep reading to find out more!
If you're on a tight budget then portable air conditioners or window air conditioners are the cheapest. Keep in mind though that these types can only cool a single room at a time.
Ductless air conditioning systems or mini-split air conditioners are considered cost-effective options if you only need to cool one or two rooms. If you want to cool your whole house with a ductless system you'll need to keep it on constantly.
Not only will this not be very effective, but it'll cause some eyebrow-raising energy costs! On the other hand, Smart AC units are a bit more pricey to buy but they're more energy-saving and therefore not as expensive to run.
A central air conditioning system is considered more expensive than other types we've mentioned but they're also more effective in the long run. Not only that but this type of air conditioner tends to last longer than other types.
The most expensive option is a Geothermal air conditioning unit, but they're so effective they pay for themselves with energy-saving. Geothermal AC units have unbeatable effectiveness and efficiency compared to other types.
It's likely that if you pay out for one of these state-of-the-art air conditioning units, it could last a lifetime!
Purchasing an energy-efficient air conditioner is a great way to help reduce the cost of your energy bills. This energy-efficiency ratio is also called the EER rating.
It's essential to check this so you choose the most cost-effective option. Remember, the higher the rating, the more efficient the unit will be.
Another important parameter is the SEER or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The air conditioner's SEER rating is the cooling output divided by the electric energy input at the same time.
The SEER rating might sound similar to EER, but the difference is that the SEER is decided over a whole cooling session of many months at various temperature points.
The EER is decided at a fixed temperature. Like the EER rating, air conditioning units with a higher SEER rating will be more energy-efficient.
Air conditioners that are easy to maintain can make a big difference in how long they last. Also, always choose an AC unit that's suitable for the size of your home.
There are lots of brands and designs available and your decision depends on many factors. Take into account the space requirement, your budget and how easy they are to use and service.
It's essential to take into account how much space you have to spare as this will determine the kind of air conditioning system you can have. If you don't have much floor space then a floor-mounted unit wouldn't be suitable.
On the flip side, if you don't have a suitable wall or window space, then a wall-mounted system wouldn't be a good idea. Having insufficient space for your AC unit will prevent it from functioning effectively.
Next, consider how powerful your air conditioning system needs to be. The amount of energy air conditioners produce is measured in BTUs, British Thermal Units.
To determine how many BTUs your AC unit should have, you'll need to decide how much space, in square feet, you want to cool.
You can measure the square footage of the room just by using a tape measure. Don't forget to include any closets, entrances, and other tight spaces the room may have.
Lastly, think about how easy the control system is to use. A good example is a central air conditioning system. These are usually connected to the thermostat and once you've set the desired temperature you can leave it, and the AC will do the hard work for you.
On the other hand, a window or portable air conditioner won't automatically respond so you'll need to check them manually. This can include anything from manual dialling to digital remote controls and keypads.
As we mentioned before, a huge benefit of a ductless split system is the ability to cool down multiple rooms at different temperatures. If every member of the household is in the same room, it doesn't make any sense to cool the entire home.
If your home is large and you want to cool multiple spaces at the same time then a central air conditioner is your best bet. This type of air conditioning has a split system that regulates the air through ducts in your home. It's also called a ducted system.
Split systems are a combination of two main unit types. The outdoor part houses the condenser and compressor while the indoor unit comprises the air handler and evaporator coils. Like all air conditioning, central AC uses refrigerant to remove heat from indoor air.
The unwanted heat is then expelled outside and cool air is pushed in through the installed ducts. Using clever HVAC technology, the programmable thermostats can be combined with central air conditioners to cool your home in a smart way
Because window air conditioners are available in different sizes they're ideal if you want to cool one room or a small area of the house. If you choose a large window air conditioner you could cool a small house as long as it's just single storey or an open plan type design.
For the longest time window air conditioners have been considered an excellent choice for cooling small spaces and considered the most commonly used AC type. A window air conditioner is just one unit with all the components inside it.
It pushes the heat outside and blows a cool airflow into the room. They are installed by a window, hence the name, or by creating a hole in the wall.
These types of air conditioning systems have filters so they can be cleaned easily for maximum AC efficiency. These units also have controls and sometimes come with a remote.
Split system air conditioners provide cool air to different areas of the home. Unlike portable air conditioners or window units, split systems are not self-contained but are two-part systems.
They're commonly used in buildings that don't have a complete duct system. They're known as split systems because they have two or more parts. The condenser unit is installed outside and the compact blower or evaporative units are typically mounted on a wall.
These components are connected through conduits that carry power and refrigerant lines. A split system has the advantage of being able to cool different rooms using different temperatures. This is because each unit has its own thermostat.
This feature, unfortunately, does make the split system air conditioners more expensive than a central AC unit.
Ducted air conditioners are commonly used in shopping centres, workplaces, and other large spaces. But they're also becoming more and more popular in homes.
This type of air conditioner system involves a central location where the air is filtered and then sent through a series of ducts and pushed into each room. Ducted AC units are great for keeping large rooms at a comfortable temperature.
Similar to a window air conditioner, portable air conditioners are placed in one unit with the components inside. The difference is that it's a free-standing AC unit and can be moved around.
All it needs is a power outlet to run it and window access where the air can be exhausted from, through the funnel. Portable air conditioners are ideal if you only want to temporarily cool your home, or if it's not practical to have a window or split air conditioning system.
They are smaller and more convenient versions and can even be used for bathrooms and other small spaces. Portable ACs can have a single air pipe that takes in the air from the room and expels it outside.
Alternatively, they may have a dual hose that takes air in from outside using one hose. This cools down the compressor and it's then expelled outside using the other hose.
Because portable ACs are used indoors, the evaporator fans run constantly to evaporate any condensed moisture that builds up inside the unit.
A floor-mounted air conditioner is designed to be a convenient option if you'd prefer a mini-split system but you don't have the space to accommodate a wall-mounted air conditioner.
The indoor part of a floor-mounted AC sits on the floor, and the outside part can be installed without any preparation or ductwork. This is also an ideal option for spaces with tilting walls such as lofts or buildings made from delicate materials such as glass.
A floor-mounted air conditioning unit can also be installed up to 6 inches off the floor. It'll be attached to a small hole made in the wall and connected to the outer unit. A great benefit of this placement is that it makes it easy for you to check the air filters.
Having easy access to the filters makes floor-mounted air conditioning units perfect for people who suffer from respiratory problems or those who want to keep the indoor air quality as high as possible.
This type of air conditioner cools and heats the room faster than other mounted systems because the fan blows the air at your level. Air conditioning systems that are positioned high up on the wall often struggle to cool the space uniformly.
Floor AC units need space around them to operate effectively and circulate the air properly, so be sure the unit isn't blocked or obstructed by walls or furniture.
Hybrid air conditioners alternate between using electricity and burning fossil fuels to operate. Intelligent technology chooses between energy sources to save money and power, meaning you won't get a nasty shock when you get your bill!
In the summertime, this type of air conditioner pulls heat from the room and throws it outside. In the winter, the AC unit functions in reverse. Instead, it pulls heat from the outside and expels it into your home.
When the refrigerant drops below the temperature outside, the heat from outside is transferred to the coils in the AC and into the refrigerant. The extracted heat can then be turned into warm and clean air for the room.
If you're looking at air conditioning systems that are more efficient or you don't want a ducted system, then mini-split ACs are an ideal choice.
These types of air conditioners are a combination of an outside unit with a cooling compressor and a condenser, plus an indoor unit. The indoor units are attached to a wall and they have air blowers.
The units are connected through various tubes and the refrigerant circulates through them. Which tube they circulate through will depend on the desired type of use.
Ultimately, to choose the right air conditioner type for your home, you need to pick the one you need. Investing thousands of dollars when you only need a small AC system is unnecessary, while only buying a small portable AC when you have a big house won't be enough.
Remember to be realistic about how much power you're going to need. Also, decide if you're ok with holes being drilled in your walls and how quiet you want your air-con unit to be.
Being realistic will not only save you money but time as well, especially useful if a hot summer is just on the horizon!
For most of us, shopping for a new air conditioner can be confusing and overwhelming, and something we usually hand over to the professionals. However, making uninformed decisions could lead to you overspending on a unit that doesn't even do what you want it to!
If you don't already know, a split system air conditioner is one of the most cost-effective and energy-friendly ways that you can keep your home at the perfect temperature year-round. A split system conditioner is discreet, easily installed, and low-maintenance once you have it up and running.
If you want to know more about split system air conditioners and how they work, then keep reading this guide!
A split system conditioner is comprised of two main components: one outdoor unit and one inside unit. The outdoor unit is placed outside, near the room that you want cooling, and contains a compressor, condenser coil, and capillary tubing or an expansion coil. The indoor unit is what contains the cooling coil, air filter, and a long blower.
What makes a split air conditioner different from a ducted system is that refrigerant is moved through pipes rather than ducts to produce hot or cool air.
Split system air conditioning works by feeding refrigerant gas into an outdoor compressor in order to condense it into liquid form, move it through condenser tubes, and back into a compressor. During this process, the gas will heat up and cool down in a cycle.
The indoor unit and outdoor unit are connected by electric cables and copper pipes: this is how the refrigerant flows to different components in the units, such as the compressor, fan, and inverter.
Air is taken from a room and cooled down using the indoor unit, then pushed back into the room through vents, where it can be regulated using a remote control. Most remote controls have a function that allows power to be turned off automatically, as well as various modes and timers.
Outdoor units tend to be the more unsightly and noisy part of the system, whilst the indoor unit is much more portable and quiet, so it can be mounted on a wall or window without being too noticeable.
There are many different types of split air conditioning out there, and it is vital that you get one that suits your personal preferences and your space.
We recommend getting the opinion of a professional when it comes to figuring out the size of the air conditioner you need. If you want to do this yourself, then you should measure every room that will make use of the split air conditioner and make a decision based on this.
If you buy air conditioning that is too heavy-duty or large for your location, you will end up with high maintenance costs and utility bills for no reason. As well as this, a larger air conditioner unit will not necessarily heat up or cool down your space any better than a smaller choice could have.
Another thing you need to know before making a decision is how energy efficient each air conditioner unit is. Choosing one with a high energy efficiency rating will save you money on bills and make sure that you are doing your bit for the planet.
When browsing split systems, you will come across standard split system air conditioning and reverse cycle split system air conditioning. The difference is that a reverse cycle air conditioner provides heating and cooling to a room, whereas a standard air conditioner will only blow cool air. However, a split system can provide a reverse cycle, you just have to make clear that this is a priority whilst searching.
The other common type of air conditioner is a ducted unit. This differs from split systems because it does not require indoor and outdoor units, only indoor. Air is regulated in a single central unit and moved along ducts rather than pipes, to maintain a stable temperature across a large space.
A split system air conditioner is ideal for those who do not want to be disturbed by A/C noise. The noisiest parts of any air conditioner are the compressor and the fan, both of which are located in the outdoor unit of a split system.
In other air conditioners, such as a window unit, even the most disruptive components are located indoors, meaning they are not only irritating but very noticeable.
A multi-split system air conditioner can be installed as an add-on to your unit, making it possible to regulate the heating/cooling of each individual room, a luxury that other air conditioners do not have. Every different space in a house would hav\ze its own control, meaning different parts of a building would be different temperatures.
Once your desired temperature has been reached in a room, the split system air conditioner will turn itself off until needed again. This will do wonders for not only your electricity bills but your carbon footprint as well, thanks to its energy efficiency.
Split systems that are designed and manufactured by trusted brands will also last you a lifetime, meaning you are doing your bit for the planet by reducing your waste and investing in appliances with longevity.
Although the initial cost of a split air conditioner is substantial, the costs balance themselves out and most people see the spend as an investment.
What's more, split systems tend to be cheaper than ducted air conditioners when it comes to air conditioning installation. This is because if your home does not already have ductwork it can be a lengthy and costly process.
