Is your ducted air conditioning system not running as efficiently as it used to? The good news is that the problem might be simpler than you think. A little regular maintenance goes a long way in keeping your system running smoothly, reducing your energy bills, and extending its lifespan.
In this article, we’ll share four practical tips to help you maintain your ducted air conditioner’s efficiency at home and explain when it’s best to call in the experts.
What is a Ducted Air Conditioning System?
A ducted air conditioning system uses a central temperature-control unit to distribute cool or warm air throughout multiple rooms via ducts in the ceiling or floors. Unlike split systems that have separate units in each room, ducted air conditioning offers whole-home comfort from one central control panel.
Modern ducted systems also allow for zoned control, meaning you can adjust the temperature in different areas of your home independently, perfect for saving energy. Many ducted systems also use reverse cycle technology, providing both cooling in summer and heating in winter.
Four Practical Tips to Maintain Your Ducted Air Conditioner
Now that you understand how ducted systems work, let’s look at four simple maintenance steps you can take to keep your air conditioner running at peak efficiency.
Tip 1: Clean or Replace the Filters
Filters trap dust, dirt, and allergens while keeping airflow smooth. Over time, they can become clogged, making your system work harder and less efficiently.
- Check and clean filters at least every six months (ideally before summer and winter).
- Use a duster, hose, or wash in a basin to remove dirt.
- If filters are damaged or too dirty to clean, replace them.
Regular filter maintenance not only improves efficiency but also helps protect the health of family members, especially those with asthma or allergies.
Tip 2: Keep the Condenser Coil Clear
Your condenser coil is the outdoor unit of your ducted system. It’s exposed to dust, leaves, and debris that can block airflow and reduce efficiency.
- Gently remove leaves and dirt from around the unit.
- Avoid blocking the coil with plants or objects to ensure proper airflow.
- For deep cleaning, such as removing built-up dirt inside the coil, it’s best to call a professional technician.
This part of the system is delicate, and improper cleaning can cause damage, so leave the heavy-duty work to the experts.
Tip 3: Clean the Ducts and Vents
Dust and dirt can also build up inside your ducts and vents, restricting airflow and lowering efficiency.
- Wipe down vents regularly with a damp cloth or duster.
- Use a vacuum or extendable duster to reach further inside.
- For full duct cleaning, book a professional service—it’s more effective and ensures your system stays in top condition.
Tip 4: Book Regular Professional Servicing
Even with regular cleaning, your ducted system needs annual servicing by qualified technicians. During a service, they’ll:
- Inspect and clean key components
- Check refrigerant levels
- Test thermostat and zoning systems
- Identify small issues before they become costly repairs
Preventative maintenance is the best way to ensure your ducted air conditioner remains efficient year after year. In Brisbane’s climate, booking servicing before summer is a smart move to beat the seasonal rush.
How Long Does a Ducted Air Conditioner Last?
With regular cleaning and servicing, a ducted system from a reputable brand like Daikin can last 15–20 years. Without proper care, efficiency drops and the system may fail much sooner, costing you more in the long run.
Contact Tri-Tech for Expert Air Conditioning Services
At Tri-Tech Air Conditioning, we’ve been keeping Brisbane homes cool and comfortable since 1989. From Daikin ducted systems to Mitsubishi Electric split system installations, our mobile service team is ready to help with:
- New installations
- Repairs and servicing
- Preventative maintenance
- Payment plans for added convenience
Call us today on (07) 3394 0222 or fill out our online form to book your next service. Keep your ducted air conditioner running at its best, trust Tri-Tech to take care of it.
