Melbourne’s summers are known for their heatwaves — and when temperatures soar past 35°C, the last thing you want is an air conditioner that suddenly gives up on you. As the warm season approaches, now is the perfect time to ensure your air conditioning system is clean, efficient, and ready to handle the summer rush.

A well-maintained system not only keeps your home cool and comfortable but also helps lower your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your unit.

Here are the top 7 checks to prepare your air conditioner before summer hits Melbourne — plus an important tip if you’re still running an old ducted gas system.

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1. Clean or Replace Your Air Filters

Your air filters are the lungs of your system. Over time, dust, dirt, and pet hair build up, restricting airflow and making your unit work harder to deliver cool air.
Tip: Clean washable filters or replace disposable ones every 2–3 months — especially before the summer season begins. This simple step can improve efficiency by up to 15%.

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2. Check Outdoor Unit (Condenser) for Blockages

The outdoor unit is often exposed to leaves, grass, and debris that can block airflow. Restricted airflow reduces cooling performance and puts unnecessary strain on your compressor.

Tip: Make sure there’s at least 30 cm of clear space around your outdoor condenser. Gently brush away debris and rinse the fins with a garden hose (on low pressure).

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3. Inspect Ducts and Vents for Leaks or Blockages

For ducted air conditioning systems, even small leaks in the ductwork can waste up to 30% of your system’s cooling power. Dusty or blocked vents also restrict airflow and cause uneven cooling across rooms.

Tip: Have a professional technician inspect ducts for leaks, tears, or insulation damage — especially if your home is older.

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4. Test the Thermostat

Before summer hits, test your thermostat to make sure it’s accurately reading the temperature and responding to settings.

Tip: Set your thermostat to cool mode and ensure it reaches your desired temperature efficiently. Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better control and energy savings.

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5. Check for Unusual Noises or Smells

Odd noises like rattling, hissing, or grinding can signal loose parts or refrigerant issues. Musty smells might indicate mold growth in the coils or ducts.

Tip: Don’t ignore unusual sounds or odors — get a licensed technician to inspect and fix any issues before they turn into expensive repairs.

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6. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

Even if your system seems fine, a professional maintenance service ensures everything is running at peak performance.

Tip: Melbourne Aircon Specialist offers comprehensive pre-summer tune-ups that include cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, inspecting electrical components, and ensuring safe operation.

Regular servicing helps prevent breakdowns and keeps your energy bills low throughout the season.

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7. Consider Replacing Your Old Ducted Gas System Under the VEU Program

If your home still uses an old ducted gas heating system, now’s the time to make the switch. The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program offers generous rebates for homeowners who replace their outdated gas systems with modern, energy-efficient reverse-cycle air conditioners.

Benefits of Upgrading Under the VEU Program:

• Receive up to $7,000 in rebates depending on your existing system.
• Reduce carbon emissions and running costs.
• Enjoy heating and cooling in one efficient unit.
• Lower maintenance costs — no gas connections required.

By replacing your old ducted gas heater with a reverse-cycle system, you’ll enjoy year-round comfort and long-term savings while helping Victoria move towards a cleaner, greener future.

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Final Thoughts

Preparing your air conditioner for summer isn’t just about comfort — it’s about ensuring efficiency, safety, and savings.

Whether you need a quick tune-up, filter replacement, or a full system upgrade, Melbourne Aircon Specialist is here to help you beat the summer heat.

Stay cool, save energy, and breathe easy knowing your system is in expert hands.

📞 Call us today: 1300 001 690
🌐 Visit: www.melbourneairconspecialist.com.au