Air Conditioner Buying Guide

Your air conditioner filter needs to be cleaned regularly to maintain good air quality and extend the life of your air conditioner. Manufacturers usually recommend cleaning your filters every few weeks, but this can vary depending on usage. Generally, the more often you use your air conditioner, the more often you should clean it. Check your air conditioner's manual for the manufacturer's recommendations.

As a general guide:

1. Turn off the power to your air conditioner.
2. Locate the filter: It's usually located behind a grille or plastic panel on the front that can pop open. In some window or portable air conditioning units, the filter may be accessible from the front or back of the unit. Refer to your user manual if you're not sure where to find it.
3. Remove the filter: Carefully remove the filter from its housing. Depending on the type of air conditioner, you may need to slide it out, pull it down, or open a latch to access the filter.
4. Clean the filter: There are different ways to clean an air conditioner filter, depending on the type.
1. Washable Filters:If you have a washable filter (usually made of foam or mesh), you can clean it by gently rinsing it with warm water. Use a mild detergent if it's particularly dirty. After washing, allow the filter to air dry completely before reinstalling it.
2. Disposable Filters:Disposable filters should be replaced rather than cleaned. These are typically made of fiberglass or pleated paper material. Make sure to get the right size and type for your unit.
5. Reinstall the Filter: Once the filter is clean and dry (or replaced if it's disposable), carefully slide it back into its housing. Make sure it is properly seated and secured.

To calculate the size you need measure the square meters (length x width) of the area you want to cool. Then, calculate the cooling capacity. Generally, you will need about 1.25-1.7 kilowatts of power per 10 sqm if your ceilings are a standard height.

Cleaning an entire air conditioning system involves more than just cleaning the filter. It requires regular maintenance to keep the unit running efficiently and to ensure the air quality in your home remains optimal. For instructions specific to your air conditioner, check the user manual that came with your air conditioner.

Ensure your air conditioner works properly and efficiently by cleaning and maintaining the:

Filters – Filters capture airborne particles so these can get extremely dirty. Regularly cleaning or changing filters (as often as every month or two in summer) is the quickest way to save energy on home cooling, helping you use 5-15% less energy and reduce your bills. Homes with pets or lots of exposure to dust will need to replace their filters more often.

Coils – Dirt inevitably collects in the evaporator coils and condenser coils over time. Dirt in the evaporator coil reduces air flow and the ability to evaporate heat, so check the evaporator coil every year and clean it when it needs it. Dirt can also collect on condenser coil fins, especially if it’s in an outdoor area that’s dusty or leafy. Keep the area around the condenser coil clear of tree foliage, grass cuttings and other debris so there’s enough airflow around the condenser.

Fins – The evaporator coils and condenser coils both have fins which can bend, blocking air flow. Buy a “fin comb” and use this special air conditioner tool to straighten the fins out again and ensure maximum air flow.

Drains – Air conditioners have condensate drains that can clog, which stops the air conditioner from being able to reduce the humidity and can cause excess air moisture to affect your carpets and walls. To prevent clogs, feed a stiff wire through the drain channels every now and then.

Seals – At the start of every summer, check the seal that sits between the air conditioner and the window to ensure it’s still a tight seal, and that moisture damage isn’t causing cool air to escape outside.

Split system air conditioners are the most common type of air conditioner in Australia. They are made up of two parts, with one attached to the internal wall, while the other sits on the outside to exhaust heat out. Split systems are known for their energy efficiency, quiet operation, and precise temperature control. They are often used for cooling individual rooms.

The best air conditioning temperature during summer depends on a variety of factors, including personal comfort, health, and energy efficiency. If you're looking for the ideal temperature, 25°C to 27°C is generally the sweet spot for comfort and energy efficiency.