Air conditioners are a staple of modern households, especially in parts of Australia where temperatures can soar for large parts of the year. Because they’re so essential for maintaining a comfortable temperature in our homes, it’s important to keep on top of its maintenance so it’s able to run efficiently and cost-effectively.

That’s where regular cleaning comes into play. Over time, dust, dirt and mould can build up in and around your air conditioner, which can affect its performance and potentially cause health issues.

Hiring a professional air conditioner cleaner will see that your system is in tip top condition, improving your air quality and extending the life of your unit. Unsure if you’re ready to post a job yet? This page covers everything you need to know about finding the best local air conditioner cleaner for your needs. 

Why is air conditioner cleaning important?

• Improved air quality: Dust, pollen, mould and other contaminants can build up in your air conditioning system over months and years. These particles will then be circulated throughout your home, potentially creating respiratory issues and allergies among those who live there. Regular cleaning helps to remove these things and gives you and your family much cleaner air

• Energy-saving: A dirty air conditioner has to work harder to cool or heat your home, which can end up consuming more energy and you’ll be stung by higher electricity bills. Cleaning the filters, coils and other components will help your system operates as efficiently as possible

• Extended lifespan: Regular maintenance and cleaning can extend the life of your air conditioning unit by preventing wear and tear on essential components. This can save you money on expensive repairs or replacements over the years

• Fewer breakdowns: Dirt and other junk can cause blockages in your air conditioner, often resulting in malfunctions and breakdowns. Routine cleaning helps prevent these issues and keeps everything running smoothly

Read more: How much does air conditioning cost to run?

When do you need air conditioner cleaning?

Knowing when to hire a professional for air conditioner cleaning can help you avoid the aforementioned issues and keep your system running at its optimal performance. Here are some signs that your air conditioner may need cleaning:

• If you notice that the airflow from your air conditioner is weaker than usual, it could be due to clogged filters or ducts

• Musty or mouldy smells coming from your air conditioning system might be due to the presence of mould or bacteria, which should be addressed immediately

• A sudden increase in your electricity bills could suggest that your air conditioner is working harder than it should be (whether due to dirt build-up or something else)

• If you can see dust or mould on the vents or filters of your air conditioner, then it's time for a thorough cleaning

• If some rooms in your home are not cooling as well as others, it might be because of blockages or dirty components inside your air conditioner

For most households in Australia, it’s recommended that you get your air conditioner professionally cleaned at least once a year. However, if you live in parts of the country that are prone to higher levels of dust or pollen, or if you use your air conditioner more than the typical household, then more regular cleaning could be necessary.

Read more: How much does air conditioning repair cost?

Why should you hire a professional for air conditioner cleaning?

While there are some basic parts of air-conditioner maintenance that you as the homeowner can handle yourself (e.g. changing filters), the vast majority of fixes require the skilled hands of a professional. Here’s why hiring a professional air conditioner cleaner is the best choice:

• Experience counts for everything: Professional cleaners have the knowledge and tools to clean your air conditioning system back to its original quality, including hard-to-reach areas that you could easily miss with a DIY clean

• Proper equipment: Professionals will be with them a toolbag of specialised equipment and cleaning products that are effective at removing dirt, mould and other nasties without damaging your air conditioner

• Safety: Because air conditioner cleaning involves working with electrical components and potentially hazardous substances like mould and mildew, it’s vital that you only use a professional who has been trained to handle these jobs safely

• Comprehensive service: A professional cleaner will inspect and clean every component of your air conditioning system, including the filters, coils, ducts, drains and more. This means your system will not only be clean but also function at its optimal performance

How to hire the best air conditioner cleaner for your job

Start by searching online at hipages for local air conditioning cleaners in your area. You’ll be able to find their reviews and testimonials to give you an idea of their reputation and what to expect. Make sure they are licensed and insured so you aren’t liable for any accidents that happen while they are at your home.

It’s important to get quotes from at least 3 air conditioner cleaning professionals to compare their prices and what services are included. Ask for a breakdown of all the work to be performed, like cleaning the filters, coils, ducts, drains, etc.

You might also want to ask about the different methods and products they use for air conditioner cleaning jobs, especially if you have a preference for eco-friendly cleaning solutions. Make sure you understand what will be used and if it’s safe for your system and your family.

Finally, go over the contract in fine detail before signing on the dotted line. Double-check the scope of work, timing, payment terms and warranty.

With hipages, you can easily find and connect with fully qualified air conditioner cleaners in your area.

Costs of air conditioner cleaning

Air conditioner cleaning costs will depend on a few different things – including the type of system, the extent of the cleaning required and where you are located.

While air conditioning repairs can cost anywhere from $80 to $140 per hour, air conditioning cleaning costs approximately $229 for a single internal unit, then additional costs for extra units or external air conditioning systems.

Now that you understand just how essential it is to keep your air conditioner clean for a healthy, comfortable home, it’s time to find your ideal tradie. Explore hipages today to find and hire the best local air conditioner cleaner in your area.

Air Conditioner Cleaning FAQs

Can I clean my air conditioner myself?

Yes, you can clean the filters and external components of your air conditioner yourself, but for deep cleaning, especially for internal parts, you’ll want to hire a professional.

What is the correct way to clean inside your air conditioner?

Turn off the power, remove the filter and clean with mild soap and water. Use a vacuum to clean the coils and fins. For full cleaning, hiring a professional cleaner is essential.

How often should an AC be cleaned?

Air conditioners should be cleaned at least once a year. However, if you live in a dusty part of Australia or use the unit quite a lot, more regular cleaning will be needed.

How do I know if my AC needs cleaning?

Warning signs include poor airflow, bad smells coming from the system, higher-than-expected electricity bills and visible signs of dust or mould.