As Melbourne moves from cool winter mornings to warmer spring and summer days, many homeowners switch their air conditioner from heating to cooling for the first time in months.

Before you press that cool button, it’s important to do a few simple checks. Air conditioning systems that sit idle over winter can collect dust, develop minor faults, or lose efficiency—leading to poor cooling just when you need it most.

This checklist from Melbourne Aircon Specialist will help you start the season with reliable cooling, better efficiency, and fewer breakdowns.

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Why a Pre-Season Cooling Check Matters

Turning on your air conditioner without checking it first can result in:

• Weak airflow
• Bad smells
• Higher electricity bills
• Unexpected breakdowns during heatwaves

A quick inspection can prevent small issues from becoming expensive repairs and ensures your system is ready for Melbourne’s unpredictable summer weather.

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Step-by-Step Checklist Before Switching to Cooling Mode

1. Switch the System to Cooling Mode

This sounds obvious, but many calls we receive are due to systems still set to heating or auto mode.

✔ Set the mode to Cool
✔ Lower the temperature to 18–20°C
✔ Confirm the outdoor unit starts running

If warm air is coming out after a few minutes, the system may need professional attention.

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2. Clean or Replace Air Filters

Filters often collect dust, pet hair, and pollen over winter.

Dirty filters can:

• Restrict airflow
• Reduce cooling efficiency
• Increase power consumption
• Trigger bad odours

Remove and clean reusable filters with lukewarm water. Replace disposable filters if required. Let them dry completely before reinstalling.

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3. Check for Unusual Smells

When cooling starts after winter, mild dust smells are normal for the first few minutes. However, persistent smells are not.

Watch out for:

• Musty smells (possible mould or moisture buildup)
• Burning smells (electrical issue—turn off immediately)

If odours don’t disappear quickly, book a professional inspection.

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4. Inspect Indoor Vents and Airflow

Ensure air can flow freely throughout your home.

✔ Make sure vents aren’t blocked by furniture
✔ Check that airflow feels strong and even
✔ Confirm all rooms cool consistently (especially in ducted systems)

Uneven airflow may indicate duct issues or system imbalance.

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5. Check the Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor unit plays a crucial role in cooling performance.

Before switching on:

• Remove leaves, dust, or debris
• Ensure there’s clear space around the unit
• Listen for unusual noises once running

Restricted airflow can cause overheating and reduce efficiency.

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6. Test the Thermostat or Remote

Make sure your control system is functioning correctly.

✔ Buttons respond properly
✔ Display is clear
✔ Temperature settings change as expected

Replace remote batteries if needed. Smart thermostats should be checked for connectivity and software updates.

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7. Monitor Energy Usage

If your electricity usage spikes unexpectedly after turning on cooling, it could be a sign of inefficiency or underlying issues.

High energy consumption may indicate:

• Dirty coils
• Refrigerant problems
• An ageing or undersized system

Early detection helps avoid higher summer bills.

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8. Listen for Unusual Noises

Pay attention to sounds when the system starts.

Normal sounds include light airflow and compressor hum.
Warning signs include:

• Grinding
• Banging
• Clicking
• Loud rattling

These noises often indicate loose components or mechanical wear.

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9. Book a Professional Pre-Summer Service

A professional service before summer ensures your system is fully ready for peak demand.

A typical service includes:

• Deep cleaning of filters and coils
• Checking refrigerant levels
• Inspecting electrical connections
• Verifying airflow and performance

This can improve efficiency, extend system life, and reduce the risk of breakdowns during heatwaves.

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Signs You Should Call a Professional Immediately

Contact an air conditioning specialist if:

• The system doesn’t cool after 10–15 minutes
• Airflow is weak
• You smell burning or strong musty odours
• The system keeps turning on and off
• Energy bills rise suddenly

These issues rarely fix themselves and usually worsen if ignored.

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Why Choose Melbourne Aircon Specialist

At Melbourne Aircon Specialist, we help homeowners prepare their air conditioning systems for every season.

We provide:

• Pre-summer aircon inspections and servicing
• Repairs for split and ducted systems
• Energy-efficient upgrade advice
• Systems designed for Melbourne’s climate

We service Melbourne and surrounding suburbs including Craigieburn, Epping, Werribee, Dandenong, Glen Waverley, Frankston, Melton, and more.

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Get Your Cooling Ready Before the Heat Hits

Don’t wait for the first heatwave to find out your air conditioner isn’t working properly. A simple check now can save stress, money, and discomfort later.

📞 1300 001 690
📧 info@melbourneairconspecialist.com.au
🌐 melbourneairconspecialist.com.au

Start summer the right way—with cool, reliable comfort.