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Sep 05th, 2024
Ducted heating system service in progress

Wondering if it’s time to get your ducted heating serviced? Whether it’s gas or electric, regular maintenance is important for every heating and cooling system. From optimal performance to energy efficiency and safety, a little upkeep can keep it in great working order.

As one of Melbourne’s leading HVAC teams, we’re here to help you identify when your system needs professional attention. What’s more, we’ll also provide some insights into the major signs it’s time to arrange a professional service.

Top 5 Signs You Need to Service Your Ducted System

Uneven Temperatures

Uneven temperatures can result from various issues within your system, such as blocked vents or registers, leaky or disconnected ductwork, a malfunctioning thermostat, or poor insulation. 

Above all, a well-maintained ducted heating system should provide consistent temperatures throughout your home-whether it’s the middle of a winter weeknight or an early Sunday morning. So, if you’ve noticed that some rooms are significantly warmer or cooler than others, it’s a fairly clear sign that your system needs a service. 

Common Causes of Uneven Temperatures:

  • Blocked vents or registers
  • Leaky or disconnected ductwork
  • Malfunctioning thermostat
  • Poor insulation

As you’ll probably know, these issues are not only about comfort. If the system is struggling to provide even coverage across different spaces, this forces the system to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. In turn, this leads to increased energy consumption and wear and tear on the components.

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Expert Air Conditioning Repair Services
Top-rated AC services in Melbourne. Licensed experts for split, ducted, evaporative & more.

High Energy Bills

Higher energy bills are a major talking point right now, so much so that federal policies have been implemented to ease the financial burden. However, rising cost-of-living pressures may not be the only thing leading to higher than normal power bills.

Of course, you should always set your thermostat within the recommended guidelines! As noted by Sustainability Victoria, the thermostat should remain between “18°C to 20°C”, and “Every 1°C higher will add around 10% to your heating bill.”

If you’re running a ducted system and find that bills have skyrocketed, there could be an issue with the system itself. Because inefficient systems have to work harder, they naturally consume more energy. A professional ducted air conditioning services, repairs, and maintenance helps to maintain your system’s efficiency, as well as reduce overall energy consumption and keep your bills in check.

Potential Reasons for Higher Energy Bills:

  • Dirty filters
  • Malfunctioning thermostat
  • Leaky ductwork
  • Overworked components

A well-maintained system operates more efficiently, providing the desired comfort levels without excessive energy use. By addressing issues such as clogged filters, faulty thermostats, and leaky ducts, you could significantly reduce your energy bills.

Strange Noises

Other than the normal noises that occur when it first kicks into gear, a ducted heating system should operate fairly quietly. If you hear unusual noises such as banging, rattling, or hissing, it’s a sign that something is wrong. These sounds can indicate issues ranging from loose components to serious mechanical failures. 

Ignoring strange noises or playing them off as something not to worry about can be easy to do, but it will often lead to more significant problems down the line, such as costly repairs or system failure. Regular maintenance can help identify the source of these noises and address them before they escalate.

Common Strange Noises:

  • Banging or thumping
  • Rattling
  • Hissing
  • Clicking or buzzing
  • Humming

A system running smoothly should produce minimal noise. If noises are plaguing your setup, professional technicians will be able to pinpoint the exact cause of the noise and provide effective solutions to eliminate it. 

Leaks

Water leaks around your heating unit or ductwork could be an indication of more serious issues, such as a blocked drain or a faulty heat exchanger. So, what happens if you ignore a leak? Two of the most common issues that can arise are water damage and mould growth, which typically require costly repairs. 

Fortunately, booking in a professional ducted heating service is a tangible way to detect and fix leaks before they cause more significant damage.

Potential Leak Causes:

  • Blocked condensate drain
  • Faulty heat exchanger
  • Cracked or damaged ducts
  • Improper installation

Addressing leaks promptly with professional servicing ensures that your ducted heating system remains in good working condition.

Time of Year

If you’ve noticed any of the issues above, it’s time to book in your next service. Otherwise, regular maintenance is always recommended, especially before the peak winter season. Even if your system seems to be working fine, scheduling a service can prevent future breakdowns during the coldest months. 

Benefits of Seasonal Maintenance:

  • Prevents unexpected breakdowns
  • Ensures system efficiency
  • Prolongs system lifespan
  • Detects minor issues before they escalate

Additional Signs to Look Out For

While the primary signs of needing a ducted heating service are essential to recognise, there are other important symptoms that shouldn’t be overlooked. These additional signs can indicate underlying issues that, if left unattended, may lead to more significant problems. Being aware of these can help you maintain your system’s efficiency and longevity.

Key Additional Signs

  • Odours: Burning or musty smells indicating overheating or mould.
  • Frequent Cycling: System turns on/off more than usual, suggesting thermostat or unit issues.
  • Dust Accumulation: Excessive dust in or near vents, pointing to clogged filters or dirty ducts.
  • Inadequate Heating: System runs but fails to provide sufficient heat.
  • System Age: Systems older than 10-15 years needing more frequent maintenance.

By staying vigilant for these additional signs and scheduling regular maintenance, you can ensure your ducted heating system remains efficient, safe, and reliable.

FAQs

How Often is a Service Recommended?

For optimal performance and safety, it is recommended to service your ducted heating system at least once a year. Ideally, schedule a service before the winter season begins to make sure your system is ready to handle the increased demand. Overall, regular annual maintenance helps catch potential issues early and keeps your system running smoothly. At the most basic level, it’s better to keep something in good order than have to shell out significant funds for repairs and replacements. 

Annual servicing also helps maintain indoor air quality by keeping the system clean and free from dust and debris.

What is the Purpose of a Ducted Heating Service?

A ducted heating service is all about keeping your system in the best shape possible, making sure it operates efficiently, safely, and reliably. It involves inspecting and cleaning various components, checking for wear and tear, and addressing any minor issues before they become major problems. 

Regular servicing can improve air quality, extend the life of your system, and ensure it runs at peak efficiency, saving you money on energy bills. Technicians will also use cutting-edge diagnostic equipment to check key components (both logistical and mechanical), as well your thermostats and controllers.

In an ideal scenario, this work will only need to involve the basic checks. However, if there is an issue, the technicians will either be able to fix the problem on the spot or quote you and organise a subsequent time for the repairs to take place.

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Expert Air Conditioning Repair Services
Top-rated AC services in Melbourne. Licensed experts for split, ducted, evaporative & more.

What Does a Ducted Heating Service Involve?

A comprehensive ducted heating service includes several key steps. First, a thorough inspection of all system components, including the thermostat, blower motor, fan belt, and electrical connections. Next, cleaning involves removing dust and debris from the system, including filters, vents, and the outdoor unit. 

Repairs may also be made to address any minor issues on the spot to prevent them from escalating. However, as we noted earlier, you could be given a quote for future repairs as well. Performance tests are also conducted to verify that the system is operating in an efficient and safe manner. 

Finally, safety checks are performed to test for gas leaks, carbon monoxide, and other potential hazards.

Who Should I Hire to Carry It Out?

Most importantly, you need to hire technicians with the proper licensing, accreditation, and track record. As an example, this includes those that are registered type A or type B gasfitters. In Victoria, every gasfitter must also be approved and registered with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA). This gives tangible proof that they have undergone the necessary training, and can repair your heater in a safe manner. 

Contact Maroondah Air Services today to schedule your ducted heating service and keep your home comfortable all year round. Our technicians are fully licensed, insured, and ready handle all aspects of ducted heating maintenance.

Need a Ducted Heating Service in Melbourne? Reach Out to Maroondah Air Services Today!

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

At Maroondah Air, we can perform a safe, affordable, and efficient ducted gas heating service, gas heater repair and gas heater replacement. We’ve been in the game for decades and take great pride in the standard of our customer service and workmanship. This is backed by a strong commitment to honest, integrity, and competitive prices!

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