5 Signs You Need Ducted Air Conditioning Maintenance

If well maintained, ducted air conditioning can provide excellent indoor climate control and keep you comfortable all year long. However, it’s important to remember that these systems work hard, especially if you have a large home, business or warehouse.

Unlike portable air containers, you can’t simply take them down to your local repairer. From the central thermostat to the outdoor unit, ductwork, air grille, and filters, there are so many components that need to be properly maintained.  This is why every system needs to be serviced and checked by an experienced HVAC professional.

Whether your system is brand-new or many years old, we’re here to provide our recommended checklist for regular ducted air conditioning maintenance.

What is Ducted Air Conditioning, and Why is Regular Maintenance Important?

Sometimes known as central heating, ducted systems are designed to offer heating and cooling for larger homes and businesses. Of course, they involve a series of ducts, as well as vents/air grilles that are strategically placed around the property. A ducted system is then controlled via a central thermostat, which allows each user to create a uniform indoor temperature across multiple spaces.

We should note that there is a distinctive difference between ducted gas and ducted reverse cycle. Unless it’s fitted out with add-on cooling, central gas heating is primarily designed for the warmer months, while an electric reverse cycle can offer both heating and cooling functions,

Size is a major difference between ducted setups and other systems. While wall panel heaters, split systems and portable coolers are generally compact, the inverse is true for ducted systems. In turn, this makes regular maintenance even more vital. For optimal performance, it’s essential to include split system air conditioner service as part of your overall HVAC care routine.

Regular maintenance serves a variety of different purposes. Most notably, it helps to keep your system safe, efficient, effective, and free from technical issues. Additionally, this process can ensure that minor issues don’t escalate into major problems that then lead to hefty repair bills.

During a ducted air conditioning service, a licensed HVAC technician will conduct a series of diagnostic checks, as well as assess and clean various different components.

5 Signs You Need Ducted Air Conditioning Maintenance

Now that you have a better grasp of regular maintenance, the natural question is this; what are the major signs you need to schedule a service?

Strange Noises or Smells

You arrive home on a chilly winter night, turn on your ducted heating and suddenly notice strange noises or smells. Unfortunately, this could be an indication that something is wrong with the system.

Here are some telltale examples:

Burning smell: Often caused by dust burning off the heat exchanger or ducts; persistent smell may indicate an overheating motor or electrical component.

High-pitched squealing/screeching: Typically due to issues with the blower motor or fan belt, such as wear or misalignment.

Banging/thumping: Indicates loose or broken components within the system or debris in the ducts.

Rattling sounds: Usually from loose panels or ductwork, leading to air loss and reduced efficiency.

Continuous clicking: This could signal a problem with the thermostat or electrical components; occasional clicks when starting/stopping may be normal.

Uneven Heating and Cooling

A ducted system is a big investment, and the last thing you want is your hard-earned money to go to waste. If you’ve noticed that the indoor temperature isn’t quite matching the thermostat, something else may have gone awry. 

Here’s what you should keep an eye on:

Thermostat mismatch: Indoor temperature not matching the thermostat setting can indicate a malfunction or calibration issue with the thermostat.

Uneven room temperatures: Indicates potential issues with the ductwork or system balance; check for blockages, leaks, or improper insulation.

Zoning issues: If temperatures vary significantly between rooms and you don’t have zoning, it could mean the system is not distributing air evenly or efficiently.

Blocked vents/registers: Ensure all vents and registers are open and unobstructed to maintain proper airflow throughout the house.

Insufficient insulation: Poor insulation in certain areas can lead to uneven heating and cooling, as some rooms may lose heat faster than others.

Unusually Expensive Power Bills

These days, it can be difficult to know whether a sudden spike is a sign of the times or a sign that something is wrong with your system. Either way, we understand that a rise can be distressing. Please note that in this case, we’re talking about a jump in pricing beyond that of a normal rise for the winter months. There has also been a recent rise in bills for ducted systems across the state of Victoria.

So, what are the likely causes?

Inefficiency: The system may be working harder than necessary due to dirty filters, blocked vents, or worn-out components, leading to higher energy consumption.

Thermostat issues: A malfunctioning thermostat can cause the system to run longer or more frequently than needed.

Leaky ductwork: Leaks in the ducts can lead to significant energy loss, as the system works harder to maintain the desired temperature.

Outdated system: Older systems are generally less efficient and may result in higher energy bills compared to newer, energy-efficient models.

Technical Faults

This is one of the most obvious signs that it’s time for professional ducted air conditioning services. In this case, we’re talking about issues with thermostats, remote controls, smart devices and various other issues on the technical side of things. 

Thermostat malfunctions: Inaccurate readings or unresponsive controls suggest it’s time for a professional check.

Remote control issues: Difficulty in operating the system via the remote control may indicate a technical fault.

Smart device problems: Connectivity or control issues with smart devices integrated with your heating system need professional attention.

System error codes: Displaying error codes or warning lights is a clear sign of technical faults requiring expert diagnosis.

Inconsistent operation: The system turning on and off unexpectedly or failing to maintain set temperatures indicates potential technical issues.

Visible Signs of Wear and Tear

Last but not least, we have the physical signs of damage and an overall lack of cleanliness. If you notice any of the following issues, call us today for an affordable and efficient ducted air conditioning service.

Physical damage: Cracks, dents, or other visible damage to the unit or ductwork.

Rust or corrosion: Presence of rust or corrosion on any part of the system.

Dirty or clogged filters: Filters that appear excessively dirty or clogged.

Loose or disconnected components: Visible signs of loose, disconnected, or improperly installed parts.

Accumulated debris: Buildup of dust, dirt, or debris around vents, ducts, or the main unit.

Water stains or leaks: Indications of water damage, leaks, or pooling water near the system.

What Should I Do Before My Ducted System Is Serviced?

If you’ve noticed one or multiple signs and want to organise professional maintenance, there are some steps you can take to prepare. Although we’re not suggesting you attempt to inspect the ductwork, there are still ways to make everything go more smoothly.

Clean the Return Air Filters

Clean return air filters are incredibly important to the overall performance of your ducted heating system. Why? Dirty filters tend to restrict airflow, which then forces your system to work harder and use more energy.

To clean them, turn off the system, remove the filters, and either wash them with mild soap and water or replace them if they’re disposable. Aim to clean or replace filters every 1-3 months.

Clear Out Objects & Debris Outside

Before the HVAC team arrives, it’s always a good idea to keep your outdoor unit free from objects and debris. Leaves, dirt, and other debris can all block the airflow, which may cause the system to overheat and operate inefficiently. This is why we recommend that you regularly inspect the area around your outdoor unit and remove any debris.

Clean Your Gutters

Blocked gutters often lead to overflow, which could potentially damage your home’s exterior and heating system components. As a result, it’s vital to check and clean your gutters, especially during the fall and after storms, to prevent clogs and ensure proper water drainage. Of course, this should always be done in the safest manner possible. If you don’t have a stable ladder, steer clear of any DIY attempts.

What Does a Ducted Air Conditioning Service Involve?

Inspection and Diagnostic Checks

While this process varies from property to property, many of the same rules apply to every ducted air conditioning service.

Once on site, HVAC technicians will inspect your system’s many different technical components, including the thermostat, blower motor, fan belt, and electrical connections to identify any issues that could affect performance. 

They will also perform safety checks to ensure there are no hazards, such as leaks or electrical faults. The ductwork will be examined for any leaks, blockages, or damage that could impede airflow and reduce system efficiency. If the system includes smart devices, their connectivity and functionality may also be tested.

Repairs and Advice

If issues are uncovered, on-the-spot repairs can be a key part of the service, where technicians immediately address minor issues to prevent them from escalating any further. They will also clean or replace air filters, clear debris from the outdoor unit, and make any necessary adjustments to optimise system performance. 

After completing the diagnostic and repair tasks, the HVAC team is likely to provide recommendations for any further maintenance or repairs needed to keep the system in top condition. This might include advice for the replacement of outdated components or upgrading to more efficient smart devices. 

Overall, a ducted air conditioning service is all about keeping your system in tip top shape, prolonging its lifespan and helping you to remain as cosy and comfortable as possible.

Need to Organise a Ducted Air Conditioning Service? Reach Out to Our Experts Today

Whether you’ve noticed an issue or it’s been a while since the last service, we’re always ready to lend a hand. At Maroondah Air Services, our team has been servicing ducted systems for decades, and we take great pride in the standard of our work.

The next time you need an air conditioning service in Melbourne, simply give us a call and we’ll show up in a flash. Our maintenance services come with upfront quotes, clear communication, and excellent customer service from start to finish.

If you’re experiencing any of the issues below, give us a call, and we’ll turn up to provide the best solution:

• My unit is not cooling well
• How do I clean my filters
• My controller has no display
• My air conditioner outside is very noisy
• How often do I have to service my air conditioner