Simple spring clean keeps air con costs from draining retirement funds

Spring's arrival brings more than just warmer days and blooming gardens—it also signals the time when many Australian households start cranking up the air conditioning.

But before you reach for that remote, there's one essential task that could be the difference between manageable energy bills and a summer of financial stress.

With electricity prices jumping 37 per cent in recent years and the average Australian household now spending $305 over the summer on air conditioning alone, every bit of efficiency counts.

For those on fixed incomes, this isn't just about comfort—it's about keeping essential cooling affordable when you need it most.

The costly reality of dirty air conditioning

Here's a sobering fact that might motivate you to grab those cleaning supplies: a whopping 72 per cent of Australians—equivalent to 7.2 million households—will be taking some form of action to save money on their energy bill this summer. Yet many are missing the most effective step right under their noses.

A dirty, clogged air conditioning unit doesn't just work harder—it works dramatically less efficiently. When dust and debris block your filters and coils, your system can struggle to draw in air, cool it effectively, and circulate it through your home. The result? The harder your system has to work to reach the temperature you have set, the more electricity it will use.

But the financial impact goes beyond just higher running costs. Neglecting maintenance can lead to higher energy bills, frequent breakdowns, and premature system failure.

The cost of replacing an air conditioner due to poor maintenance can be substantial, often ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the system type and size. For most households, that's a significant unexpected expense that proper maintenance could prevent.

Why seniors have even more reason to maintain their air con

If you're over 60, you have particular advantages when it comes to managing energy costs, but also unique considerations that make air conditioning maintenance even more crucial.

The good news first: Seniors over 65 years pay the least. This is because many seniors are eligible for state and territory rebates and concessions that help lower their bills.

From Victoria's Annual Electricity Concession to Western Australia's Air Conditioning Rebate, there are programs designed to help manage cooling costs.

However, health considerations make reliable, efficient air conditioning more important as we age. Dirty air conditioning systems can harbour mould and bacteria, which is particularly concerning for those with respiratory conditions or compromised immune systems. Clean systems don't just save money—they protect your health.

The professional option: what it costs and what you get

While the original CHOICE article touched on calling in professionals, let's talk realistic numbers for Australian households in 2025. For residential air conditioning maintenance, costs usually fall between $100 and $200 per unit, while commercial maintenance can range from $200 to $500 or more per system due to their larger size and complexity.

A professional service typically includes cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, inspecting electrical components, lubricating moving parts, and testing system performance.

The average cost of servicing an ac unit ranges from $75 to $200, depending on the type and level of work that is required. For ducted systems, expect to pay more—A standard service for a ducted aircon system costs around $400.

When you consider that the cost of replacement is typically 1,000 per cent to 2,000 per cent higher than the cost of a single maintenance service, professional maintenance becomes excellent value for money.

What you can safely do yourself

Between professional services, there are several maintenance tasks most people can handle safely. The key is knowing your limitations and when to call for help.

Clean those filters

Remove the front panel of your indoor unit and take out the filters. Most can be gently brushed or vacuumed to remove dust. For heavily soiled filters, wash them with mild detergent and warm water, then ensure they're completely dry before reinstalling.

Wipe the louvres

These adjustable blades direct airflow through your room. Use a dry microfibre cloth to remove dust, or vacuum with a brush attachment.

Clear the outdoor unit

Your outdoor compressor needs breathing room. Remove leaves, cobwebs, and debris from around the unit. Use a brush or vacuum to clear the air intake, but avoid using water directly on electrical components.

If you have mobility issues, balance problems, or difficulty reaching high units, don't risk injury. Many air conditioning units are mounted high on walls or require ladder access. Professional technicians have the proper equipment and training to work safely at height.

Similarly, if your unit requires accessing electrical connections or refrigerant components, this work requires appropriate licensing and should only be performed by qualified technicians.

Timing your maintenance for maximum savings

Smart timing can reduce both your maintenance costs and summer cooling bills. Book in fall or spring for the lowest prices and to catch issues before peak season. Many technicians offer off-season discounts when they're not swamped with emergency calls from households with failed units during heatwaves.

Having your air conditioner serviced once a year, preferably before summer, can prevent major issues. Regular servicing helps to catch minor problems early, reducing the likelihood of costly repairs in the future.

Making the most of your cooling dollar

Beyond maintenance, there are other ways to ensure your air conditioning system works efficiently without breaking the bank. Fans cost around 2 cents per hour to run.

This is much less than air conditioners. Fans can reduce the temperature by 2°C or 3°C. Using ceiling fans in conjunction with your air conditioning allows you to set the thermostat a few degrees higher while maintaining comfort.

Even slight changes to air conditioner temperature settings can add a surprising amount to your electricity bill. Each degree cooler you set your air conditioning can increase energy consumption by 5-10 per cent.

The health dividend

While much of the focus on air conditioning maintenance centres on costs, the health benefits shouldn't be overlooked, particularly for older Australians. Poorly maintained systems can circulate dust, allergens, and potentially harmful microorganisms throughout your home.

Mould growth in air conditioning systems is more than just unpleasant—it can trigger respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and other health issues. For those with existing conditions like asthma or compromised immune systems, clean air conditioning becomes a health necessity, not just a comfort choice.

When to call for professional help

While DIY maintenance can handle the basics, certain signs indicate you need professional attention:

• Unusual noises during operation
  
• Ice formation on the unit
  
• Water leaks or excessive condensation
  
• Weak airflow despite clean filters
  
• Unpleasant odours when the system runs
  
• Significant increases in energy bills

A professional aircon service helps to reduce electricity bills and extend the average lifespan of your air conditioning system. Regular servicing also prevents major repairs and helps to maintain energy efficiency and indoor air quality.