Autumn air-con

Ask the expert – Autumn air-con

Q1: As we head through autumn what should we be doing with our reverse-cycle air-conditioners?

A: As you rely on them year-round, they should be professionally checked for operating performance. But a householder can clean filters and do basic maintenance as per the owner’s manual.

Q2: Do many owners do this?

A: A survey by one manufacturer has found as few as 30 per cent clean them once a year. At least 80 per cent of our service requests are from people whose systems are not working properly because they haven’t been correctly maintained.

Q3: What are some symptoms?

A: The unit takes a long time to heat or cool the room. It makes clicking or cracking sounds. The fan stops when the heating or cooling process starts.

Q4: This all sounds like it could be expensive?

A: Not necessarily but ignoring warning signs can lead to many potential issues, including a system overload that could start a fire. Servicing and maintenance is a lot cheaper than repair and replacement. Sharpe has a range of maintenance plans.

For all your electrical needs call Sharpe Group on 131 750