Zoning allows you to divide your home or office into separate temperature-controlled areas. This means you can cool or heat only the rooms in use, reducing energy waste and improving comfort. Modern ducted air conditioning systems offer smart zoning options, enabling you to control different zones via a wall controller or mobile app.
Both ducted and split system air conditioners have their benefits:
Cons:
Your choice depends on budget, home size, and how much control you want over cooling different rooms.
Ductless air conditioning systems, also known as mini-splits, provide cooling without the need for ductwork. They are ideal for older homes, room additions, or spaces where traditional ducted systems aren’t feasible. They offer energy-efficient zoned cooling with flexible installation options.
Running an AC during light rain is fine, but during thunderstorms, turn it off to avoid power surges that can damage components. Using a surge protector can help safeguard your system from electrical fluctuations.
Unusual AC noises may signal issues like loose components (banging), refrigerant leaks (hissing), electrical problems (clicking), or a worn belt (squealing). If your unit is making persistent noises, schedule an inspection to prevent further damage.
To reduce AC costs, set your thermostat between 24-26°C in summer, use ceiling fans, seal air leaks, and maintain your system regularly. Upgrading to an energy-efficient model with a high SEER rating and smart thermostat control can also significantly cut down energy consumption.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures an air conditioner's cooling efficiency over a season. A higher SEER rating means better energy efficiency and lower electricity bills. Modern systems typically range from SEER 13 to SEER 25+. Investing in a higher SEER unit can lead to significant long-term savings on your energy costs.
Leaving your air conditioner on all day at a consistent temperature can be more efficient than turning it on and off frequently. However, for maximum savings, use programmable settings or smart thermostats to adjust temperatures when you’re not home. This reduces energy waste while keeping your space comfortable.
Smart air conditioners come with Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control them remotely via a smartphone app. Many models integrate with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant, offering hands-free operation. They also provide energy usage reports and automation features to improve efficiency and convenience.
Air conditioners naturally reduce humidity by removing excess moisture as they cool the air. To maximize dehumidification, run your unit in dry mode, keep doors and windows closed, and ensure proper airflow. If humidity remains high, consider using a dedicated dehumidifier alongside your air conditioning system.
Refrigerant is the substance inside your air conditioner that absorbs and releases heat to cool or heat your home. Low refrigerant levels can lead to reduced cooling efficiency, longer cooling times, and even system damage. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, contact a licensed technician to inspect and refill your system.
Signs that your air conditioner needs repairs include weak airflow, unusual noises, warm air blowing instead of cool air, water leaks, or higher-than-usual energy bills. If your unit struggles to maintain temperature or cycles on and off frequently, it’s best to have an HVAC technician inspect and repair it before the problem worsens.
Installing an air conditioner requires electrical work, refrigerant handling, and proper mounting, which should only be done by a licensed HVAC technician. DIY installation can void the manufacturer’s warranty, lead to inefficiencies, and pose safety hazards. Professional installation ensures your unit operates correctly and meets all safety regulations.
Cooling-only air conditioners provide cold air for summer use, while reverse cycle systems offer both cooling and heating, making them ideal for year-round climate control. Although reverse cycle units have a higher upfront cost, they are more energy-efficient for heating compared to traditional electric heaters.
Water leaks from an air conditioner are often caused by clogged drain lines, dirty filters, low refrigerant levels, or a damaged drain pan. If you notice water pooling around your unit, turn it off and check the filters and drain lines for blockages. If the problem persists, contact an HVAC technician for professional servicing.
Split system air conditioners consist of two units - indoor and outdoor. The indoor unit provides cooling whereas the outdoor unit expels the hot indoor air. Hence, the name split system.
The indoor and outdoor units are connected with the help of copper pipes. Split systems offer great flexibility and can be installed in a single room or multiple rooms. They are not just for cooling though. Reverse cycle split systems provide both heating and cooling. So you can replace your heater with a split system aircon and get one appliance for climate control all year round.
Split systems can be installed in a few hours by a licensed air conditioning technician. They are small units and can be installed almost anywhere in your home or commercial property.
If you need cooling in one room, you can opt for a single unit. But if you need cooling in multiple rooms, multi-split systems are the ideal solution.
They can provide cooling in multiple rooms with one outdoor unit and multiple indoor units. Unlike ducted systems, they do not require ducts and ceiling space and can be installed in your existing home or business without any hassles.
Multi-split systems come with individual control of the temperature in each room. So you can control the temperature of each room and also shut down the aircon in unused rooms. This feature allows you to save money on utility bills.
Split systems purify the indoor air by removing the allergens, microbes, and dust, ensuring you breathe clean air. This is undoubtedly beneficial for individuals suffering from allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues.
The old style window air conditioners can make a lot of noise making it hard to fall, and stay, asleep.
Split systems eliminate this problem as they have a relatively quiet operation and produce noise under 20 dB. With this much noise level, you will hardly know that the aircon is running helping you to sleep much better.
Note: Check the sound power label of the unit - the lower the number of dB(A), quieter will be your unit.
Split system air conditioning is one of the most energy efficient climate control option. With some 7 Star rated models available you can really reduce your power bills by installing a split system aircon.
It’s a no-brainer that window units are clunky and a pain to have in the room. However, split systems eliminate the problem. Imagine being able to choose a unit that goes well with the colour and decor of your room.
Split systems offer just that - they are aesthetic and sleek. Some split systems also come with changeable panels so you can buy a unit that matches the style of your home.
Installing split aircon helps you save money as it consumes less energy and has a low operating cost. If you are buying a new split system, ensure it has a 6 or 7-star energy rating which can help you save a lot of money on your energy bills.
Split systems are energy-efficient and can help you save, however, that depends on the energy rating of your aircon.
According to Canstar Blue, a 2.5 - 5 kW, aircon can set you back by over $72.19 annually. Whereas, a 4-6 kW aircon will cost you $112.13 annually.
For heating, a 2.5 - 5 kW can cost you $110.08 annually and a 4-6 kW system has an annual cost of $168.45.
The overall cost of running the unit depends on many factors like:
Tip - Regular maintenance and cleaning of the unit will ensure it works perfectly and help you save $$$ on the energy bills.
The average lifespan of an air conditioner is 10–15 years, depending on usage, maintenance, and environmental conditions. Regular servicing, timely filter changes, and keeping the unit clean can help extend its lifespan. If your air conditioner is frequently breaking down or becoming inefficient, it may be time to consider a replacement.
To improve your air conditioner's energy efficiency, clean or replace filters regularly, set the thermostat at an optimal temperature, use ceiling fans to circulate air, close doors and windows while running the unit, and schedule regular servicing. Installing an energy-efficient inverter model can also significantly reduce electricity consumption.
For optimal comfort and energy efficiency, set your air conditioner to 24°C–26°C in summer and 18°C–20°C in winter. Every degree lower in summer or higher in winter increases energy consumption by around 10%, so maintaining a moderate setting helps reduce electricity costs while keeping your home comfortable.
Inverter air conditioners use advanced technology to adjust the compressor speed according to temperature demands, rather than turning on and off repeatedly like non-inverter models. This leads to better energy efficiency, faster cooling, quieter operation, and more stable temperature control. While inverter models may have a higher upfront cost, they can save you money on electricity bills in the long run.
The installation time depends on the type of air conditioning system. A split system air conditioner typically takes 4-8 hours, while a ducted system can take a full day or more, depending on the complexity of the installation. Factors such as wiring, pipework, and existing infrastructure can also impact installation time.
Choosing the right size air conditioner ensures efficient cooling and energy savings. A unit that’s too small will struggle to cool your space, while an oversized system will short cycle, wasting energy. Calculate the room size in square meters, consider insulation, ceiling height, sun exposure, and the number of occupants. Consulting an HVAC professional helps determine the best capacity for your needs.
The size of the air conditioner you need depends on factors such as room dimensions, insulation, and window placement. As a general guideline, a small room (up to 20m²) may require a 2.5 kW unit, while a larger living space (40m²+) might need a 7-10 kW system. Installing an air conditioner that is too small for the space can result in inefficient cooling and increased energy consumption, while an oversized unit may lead to excessive cycling and higher electricity costs. A professional assessment can determine the best capacity for your space.
Regular servicing is crucial to maintaining your air conditioner's efficiency and preventing breakdowns. It’s recommended to service your air conditioner at least once a year, preferably before peak seasons (summer or winter). If you use the system frequently, bi-annual servicing may be more beneficial. A professional service typically includes cleaning the filters, checking refrigerant levels, inspecting electrical components, and ensuring optimal system performance.
Split system air conditioners consist of an indoor unit mounted on a wall and an outdoor unit that houses the compressor. These systems are ideal for cooling individual rooms and are relatively easy to install. Ducted air conditioning, on the other hand, distributes air through a network of ducts connected to a central unit, allowing you to cool multiple rooms or an entire home at once. While ducted systems offer seamless integration and a more consistent temperature, they require professional installation and higher upfront costs.
Choosing the right air conditioner depends on various factors, including room size, insulation, climate, and energy efficiency ratings. A small room may only require a basic split system, while a larger home or commercial space may benefit from a ducted or multi-split system. To ensure optimal cooling and efficiency, it’s best to have an HVAC professional assess your property and recommend the most suitable unit based on your needs and budget.
Choosing the right air conditioner depends on several factors, including the size of your home, climate, budget, and energy efficiency.
To make the best decision, calculate the required BTUs, check energy star ratings, and consider smart AC options.
Surviving the Sydney summers without an aircon is hard. Efficient air conditioning can make the summers much more tolerable. From keeping yourself cool during summer to staying warm during the winter, air conditioning is an important part of our daily lives.
Your aircon works hard to perform optimally, however, homeowners often overlook the need to care for the system and forget to maintain their unit until it breaks down.
Do you remember the last time you got your aircon serviced? Or had it cleaned? If you cannot remember, it is not a good sign.
Wondering why it is so important to get your AC serviced? Here are 7 reasons why it is important to schedule a service or set up a preventative maintenance plan for your air conditioner.
Regular maintenance can catch small problems before they end up becoming big ones. So you won’t have to worry about unexpected breakdowns of your aircon. And you won’t have to spend extra money on unexpected repairs.
Cleaning of the aircon unit during a service check can remove the build up of debris, dust, and microbes trapped inside. This ensures your family can breathe fresh air and reduces the chance of suffering from health issues caused by breathing polluted air.
Aircon repairs or replacements can be much more expensive than servicing. Our team advise that most repairs can be avoided with regular servicing.
Dirty filters and coils make the unit work extra hard so there are high chance that your utility bills will skyrocket. Regular servicing ensures the unit is in top condition so you have low utility bills.
The role of refrigerant is to absorb the heat from inside your home and release it outside. If your aircon has low refrigerant levels, it will take longer to cool the room and you might hear strange noises from the unit.
Refrigerant leaks are also harmful to your health as the gas is toxic and shouldn't be inhaled. It is also harmful to the environment as it is a contributor to ozone layer depletion.
If you notice ice on your outdoor unit or if the unit is blowing warm air, it could be due to a refrigerant leak in the system. If this is the case contact your local air conditioning specialist for repairs.
The unit will be fine-tuned for optimum performance. Servicing ensures the unit is effective in cooling the house and does not consume extra energy to operate.
Regular servicing ensures the internal components are clean and any issues are dealt with before they become massive (read expensive) problems.
The unit will function like a well-oiled machine and preventative maintenance will ensure your system works efficiently for at least 10-15 years.
Air conditioners can be a breeding ground for harmful microbes. If the unit hasn’t been serviced, it can produce a bad, musty odour.
Air conditioners can help to trap dust, microbes and provide clean and cool/warm air. Over time, this dust gets accumulated in the internal components, i.e. coils and filters. So the unit will have to work harder to keep you cool/warm. This will obviously consume more energy and you will have to spend more money on electricity bills.
The aircon can also blow dirty air which can lead to respiratory infections and also trigger asthma and allergies.
Cooling only models - it is advisable to get it serviced once a year, just around spring.
Reverse cycle models - it is recommended to have them serviced twice a year, once in spring and once in autumn so it provides round the year comfort.
Apart from regular servicing you can do some basic maintenance yourself. For example:
Whether you need to schedule a preventative maintenance plan for your air conditioner or need servicing, our HVAC technicians can help throughout the Sydney area. Contact us on (02) 4627 4436 or complete our online aircon service request form.
We spend most of our time indoors so naturally, our home needs to be a safe space for us. Air pollution and air quality have always been a matter of great concern. But due to the pandemic and the time we are spending indoors, it is equally important to have excellent indoor air quality (IAQ).
Did you know poor IAQ, can have a range of adverse effects on your health?
Headaches and respiratory issues are just some symptoms of indoor air pollution. Poor indoor air quality in offices, schools, gyms can make you sick and lead to sick building syndrome. Other symptoms of poor IAQ include:
The common air pollutants in homes include:
To meet the standards of healthy indoor air, the following conditions need to be met:
Sensors are used to test indoor air quality which offers real-time readings of the pollutants in your home.
Air conditioners trap all the microbes but over time they can accumulate in the unit. If the unit isn’t cleaned regularly, the microbes will be released into the air leading to respiratory infections. Therefore, air conditioners need to be cleaned and serviced at least once a year so the filters can do their job correctly. Any problem with the aircon should be fixed immediately.
At New Wave Air, we can help with air conditioning installation for your home or office. Leading AC brands like Daikin, Hitachi, Samsung, Mitsubishi Electric offer air conditioners with specialised air purification features. Talk to our HVAC specialists and we can recommend the right model for your needs.
We also service air conditioners to ensure the unit works in optimum condition. For more information on our services, give us a call at (02) 4627 4436 or complete our online enquiry form.
Firstly, turn off the air conditioner so that it doesn’t cause any more water damage. There could be many reasons for a leaking air conditioner, keep reading to learn why your air conditioner is dripping water and what you can do to fix the problem.
A small amount of water is absolutely normal due to condensation. But it is a matter of concern if the water leaking is dripping inside your home or you can see water pooling around your home.
Dirt can get trapped on the air filter and restrict the airflow to the evaporator coil. This can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. When you turn off the aircon, the ice deposited on the coil will begin to thaw. This can cause excess amounts of water to leak out.
Condensate pump is responsible for pumping the water out of the aircon. Air conditioners absorb humidity from your home and separate moisture from the air causing water to collect into the drip pan. This water is pushed out with the help of the condensate line. If the pump breaks, it can lead to water damage. To prevent this problem in the future, install a float switch on the aircon. The float switch will shut down the aircon and prevent water overflow.
If there are low level of refrigerants in the system, the pressure in the unit will decrease and cause the evaporator coil to freeze. When the ice thaws, it will cause excess water to leak indoors.
The drain line can get clogged with dust or dirt which can cause water to leak into your home.
If you have an old air conditioner, there are high chances that the drain pan has formed rust or it has broken. A damaged drain pan can cause the water to leak. Luckily this issue has an easy fix, replacing the drain pan will usually fix the problem.
Your aircon needs annual servicing from a professional. If you do not get it cleaned regularly, the internal components will work with subpar efficiency. Needless to say, the unit can be plagued with water leaks and frequent breakdowns. Regualar servicing for air conditioners can keep your aircon in a good condition and increase the longevity of the unit. Your local aircon technicians can service your unit once or twice every year, clean the internal components and replace the damaged parts. Keep your aircon well-maintained by setting up a preventative maintenance plan with New Wave Air.
If your air conditioner is brand new, poor installation can lead to leaks, insufficient cooling and frequent breakdowns. Speak to the company who installed your aircon if it is near new and leaking.
As the mercury continues to rise and heatwaves become increasingly common, we need to learn to protect ourselves from the heat using cost-effective and eco-friendly ways. Here we have listed 10 tips to keep cool and also save money.
Drink at least 3-4 litres of water. Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine as they can dehydrate the body.
Dip your feet in cold water to cool off. You can also apply water to your neck, arms, legs, and face with a sponge to get comfortable. Or you can wrap crushed ice cubes in a towel and place it around your neck.
According to Professor Ollie Jay, a researcher from the University of Sydney, self-dousing works better than hydration because you can expel a lot of heat with evaporation. If the water is clean enough to apply to the skin, the evaporation can cool you off and also help you stay hydrated without drinking too much water. It is especially important in developing countries that have a limited supply of clean drinking water.
These techniques work well in both humid and dry conditions and lower cardiovascular strain, improve thermal comfort, and reduce the rate of dehydration.
Cotton, bamboo, and linen clothes help your skin breathe, control moisture and lets you stay comfortable during hot temperatures.
Close the blinds and curtains in your home to prevent rooms from becoming hot during the day.
While you may want to set the aircon temperature to 18-19 degrees, it will actually consume more energy and increase your energy bills. Instead set the temperature to 24-27 degrees and turn on the fan. Ceiling fans can push the cool air down the floor, evaporate perspiration and help you stay cool. This increases the heat loss process via convection. Air conditioners can consume a lot of electricity so combining aircon with fans can help you stay cool without burning a hole in your pocket. In addition to that, it also reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Adjust your ceiling fan to rotate counterclockwise during summer to pull hot air upwards.
You can also put a bowl of ice in front of the fan. As the air blows from the fan, it will pick cold water from the ice’s surface as it melts and creates a cooling effect.
Eat salads, fruit and sip on lemonade, slurpies and ice blocks to stay cool. It is believed that certain foods raise body temperature and digesting a big meal can warm you up.
Block the heat of the day by using large potted plants to get natural shade. You can also plant shade trees around your home to help reduce the ambient temperature inside.
Avoid using the oven during hot temperatures as it will just increase the temperature of your home. Also, avoid using halogen lightbulbs as they generate a lot of heat, instead switch to LED bulbs which can keep your home cool and also consume less energy.
Avoid going out during middle of the day to prevent sunburn and heat stroke on super hot days. If you do not have air conditioning at home, consider spending the day in the library or shopping centre. And if you do have an aircon at home, make sure it is serviced just before summer to maximise the performance of the unit and prevent unexpected breakdowns. If your air conditioner is not working properly or blowing hot air, consider upgrading to an aircon with high energy rating.
Need help with your air conditioner? Contact New Wave Air on (02) 4627 4436 or complete our online aircon enquiry form.
For larger homes or offices, ducted air conditioners are the preferred choice for efficient climate control. While it may be more of an investment to install, ducted air conditioners offer unmatched convenience and minimalist design.
Ducted air conditioners can be installed in buildings undergoing construction or be retrofitted into an existing building. The system uses a series of ducts and pipes placed in the ceiling cavity to circulate cool air around the space with discrete vents are installed each room to distribute the air.
With ducted aircon the rooms can be divided into different zones which allows you to specify the temperature and time when it runs. Ducted air conditioner controllers provide you with complete flexibility and control over the system.
It allows you to set up zones or different areas in your home so that the temperature can be controlled individually. So if you want your room to be a cooler temperature while the other rooms to be at a higher temperature, this feature is useful. Zoning allows users to set different temperatures for different zones. It will also allow you to turn off the aircon for certain zones while you can use the aircon for the room you are using.
Don’t want a split system installed in your home? Although split systems are elegant and discreet they are no match to a ducted air conditioner which can be concealed in the ceiling. So you can design the room the way you want without the hindrance of a bulky air conditioner. The only visible thing you would see in a ducted system would be the controller and the vents on the ceiling.
If you get disturbed by even the slighest sounds while you are sleeping, then ducted systems would be a relief. They are quiet and allow for a peaceful sleep without the noise that comes from a conventional split system air conditioning unit.
The initial installation cost can be higher than split systems, but they can cost you less in the long run. If you choose multi-split systems, you will need to get them installed individually plus get them serviced individually. So the overall installation plus maintenance cost could be much higher than a ducted system. Ducted systems are also highly stable and less likely to a breakdown which makes them ideal for houses with multiple rooms and levels or large buildings. They can also add to the overall value of your home if you ever want to sell your property.
Ducted air conditioners can make your property an attractive option if you ever choose to put your home on the market. It is more than necessary to have an efficient aircon for the Sydney summers.
If you want an efficient air conditioner for cooling or heating a large home or commercial building, ducted air conditioners are a perfect choice. Ducted air conditioners can control and distribute uniform temperature throughout the building. They can be more expensive than split systems to install but they are the best choice for cooling/heating large homes.
It depends on your requirements as they have different applications.
Both systems are highly efficient and reliable. If you want to cool one or two small rooms, split systems would suit you much better. But if you need to cool a large area, ducted systems win.
At New Wave Air, we provide installation and servicing of ducted air conditioners from leading manufacturers like Daikin, Fujitsu, LG and more. To request a free quote for a ducted system, give us a call on (02) 4627 4436 or complete our online enquiry form.
