What Is Lurking Inside Your Evaporative Air Conditioning System?
Have you had an airconditioner service lately?
Evaporative air conditioning is popular across Perth because it is cost effective, energy efficient, and well suited to our climate. However, what many homeowners do not realise is that these systems require yearly maintenance to stay safe, clean, and effective. When an evap unit is left unattended, the inside often becomes a home for dust, mould, mineral deposits, and deteriorated pads.
The images below show exactly what can build up inside an evaporative air conditioning system that has not been serviced.
These examples are not rare. In fact, this kind of debris is very common in systems that go for long periods without maintenance.
Why Evaporative Air Conditioners Need Regular Servicing
Evaporative units work by drawing large volumes of air through water-soaked pads, passing that air into the home. This process is effective when the system is clean. When the system is not maintained, several issues arise:
1. Airborne Contamination
Dirty pads and a dusty fan can circulate contaminants throughout your home. This may include:
- Mould spores
- Bacteria
- Pollen
- Dust and fine debris
For people with asthma, allergies, or respiratory sensitivities, this can trigger symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, breathing irritation, and general discomfort. Even for those without sensitivities, breathing in contaminated air long term is not ideal.
2. Mould Growth
Evap systems combine water, humidity, and warm conditions. This makes them perfect breeding grounds for mould when the unit is not serviced. Mould can build up on:
- Pads
- Internal framing
- Fans
- Water reservoirs
Once mould spores circulate inside your home, they can settle into carpets, furniture, and ductwork.
3. Mineral and Scale Buildup
Western Australian water is known for being high in mineral content. Over time, this leads to:
- Heavy scale on pads
- Hard deposits on fan blades
- Blocked water lines
- Pump strain
Scale buildup makes the system run harder, reduces cooling output, and shortens the lifespan of components.
4. Increased Energy Use and Reduced Cooling
A dirty evap system does not cool efficiently. Blocked pads restrict airflow, the fan has to work harder, and the entire unit strains to perform. This leads to:
- Higher energy usage
- Less effective cooling
- Hot spots throughout the home
- Shortened fan and pump life
5. Leaks and Structural Damage
Unserviced systems can develop:
- Cracked water trays
- Split water lines
- Faulty floats
- Corroded metal bases
Leaks left untreated can cause water damage to ceilings and roof structures.
What a Professional Evaporative Air Conditioning Service Involves
A proper evap service goes well beyond a quick rinse.
Our maintenance process includes:
- Full inspection of all internal components
- Removal of dust, debris, and scale from fan blades
- Cleaning, flushing, or replacing pads
- Checking pumps, floats, water lines, and the distribution system
- Ensuring correct water levels
- Inspecting the dropper and flashing for leaks
- Making sure electrical connections are safe
- Running the system to confirm correct operation
A clean and well-maintained system delivers stronger airflow, cooler temperatures, and cleaner air throughout the home.
How Often Should You Service Your Evaporative Air Conditioner?
The recommendation is once a year.
The ideal time is
before the unit is recommissioned for summer. If the season has already started, the next best time is as soon as possible.
Annual maintenance helps you:
- Improve cooling performance
- Maintain cleaner indoor air
- Reduce running costs
- Avoid major breakdowns
- Extend the life of the system
What Happens When Evap Systems Are Left Too Long
The photos you provided show real world examples of what we often find during inspections:
- Pads that have deteriorated and are packed with mould
- Fans covered in thick dust and mineral deposits
- Rusted or unsealed droppers risking leaks
- Units that have not been opened for years
When the system reaches this point, it not only performs poorly but also poses health hazards.
Why Book Your Evaporative Aircon Service Now
If your evap system has not been checked this year, now is the time. Regular servicing can prevent:
- Contaminated air entering your home
- Unpleasant smells
- Water leaks
- Heavy scale buildup
- Costly repairs or complete unit failure
The longer a unit is left, the more likely it is to develop issues that could have been prevented.
Need Your Evaporative Air Conditioner Serviced?
Our team can inspect, clean, maintain, and repair all major evap systems.
We recommend booking early before the peak summer period to avoid delays.
Call Now to arrange your service and ensure your cooling system is clean, efficient, and ready for the heat.