Air Conditioning FAQs
Answers about sizing, split systems, servicing and energy use from Sparkrite Electrical.
Common questions about split systems, sizing, servicing and energy use. For a combined list see our FAQs page, or call (07) 3287 7200.
How do I select the right size air conditioner?
To correctly size an air conditioner for a given area requires some site information, including room size, window size, construction orientation and insulation — just to name a few. It’s an important decision to get it right. If the air conditioner is too small, it won’t adequately heat or cool the area. If the air conditioner is too big, it will be inefficient and expensive to run.
You are welcome to check out our air conditioning sizing guide or call our office to book your on-site inspection. We are more than happy to send one of our qualified service technicians to attend your site to assess the best solution for your particular area and provide a completely obligation-free quote.
What is a split system air conditioner?
As the name suggests, split air conditioners are split into two sections — an indoor unit (the head unit), and an outdoor unit (the compressor). There are a number of advantages with this type of system, including:
- Quiet operation
- Cost-effectiveness
- Easy maintenance
- Easy installation
- Simple control via a remote
What is reverse cycle air conditioning?
Reverse cycle air conditioning means your system can both heat and cool your home or office providing comfort all year round.
What is an inverter system?
An inverter air conditioner allows the unit to continuously regulate its thermal power flow. This means the compressor speed can be varied. Thus the air conditioner unit can match its speed to the required output, increasing efficiency, extending the life of the components, and helping to eliminate sharp fluctuations in the load that the air conditioner places on the power supply.
Does the air conditioner require maintenance?
Yes, most manufacturers stipulate that an air conditioning system must be serviced annually to maintain the product warranty. Check out our Air Conditioning Maintenance and Servicing page. This details what is involved in servicing as well as costings.
How often should I clean my cooling system’s air filter?
If the filter light is flashing, we would recommend cleaning it immediately. Otherwise, it should be sufficient to clean your cooling system’s air filter once every three months for domestic situations and for commercial situations, once a month.
Is it worth fixing my old conditioner?
Maybe, maybe not. Most of the time if the air conditioner system is more than eight years old and had proceeded through life without regular maintenance and servicing, it’s probably more economical to replace than repair. The average life span for a domestic split system that has been well maintained is typically 10 years.
My indoor air conditioning unit is leaking water down my wall. What could be causing this?
More than likely it is a blocked drain. Usually this issue is easy to fix. Call us, and we will have a site technician in no time to fix the problem.
What is the most efficient temperature to set my air conditioner during summer and winter?
Summer — 23–25 degrees Celsius. Winter — 18–21 degrees Celsius.
My cooling system won’t turn on using the remote control or even manually. What do I do?
Check the switchboard first. Make sure the circuit breaker protecting the air conditioner circuit is in the ON position. Check the isolator near the external unit is in the ON position. If both of these are in the ON position try resetting the system. Turn the isolator OFF, wait approximately 10 minutes, and then turn it back ON. Hopefully this solves the problem. If not, then call our team at Sparkrite Electrical.
My air conditioner won’t respond to the remote control. What do I do?
This may sound obvious, but replacing the batteries within the remote control is the first step. If this fails to resolve the issue, then call us, we will arrange a technician to attend.
How can I save energy when using air conditioning?
- Clean the air filter regularly
- Set your cooling system to operate between 23 and 25 Celsius during summer and between 18 and 21 Celsius during winter
- Adjust the louvres on your split system air conditioner so as to dispense air downwards when heating and upwards when cooling
- If it’s going to be a hot day, turn your air conditioner on earlier. This will save your system from working harder when your home warms up
What is ‘peak smart’ air conditioning?
Peak smart air conditioning is a mechanism to assist managing energy consumption demand at peak times of the day. It caps your air conditioner consumption to a certain level at peak times to decrease stress on energy sources. A rebate may be applicable if you install a peak smart model.
What is Arc Tick?
The Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) administers refrigerant handling and refrigeration trading authorisation to air conditioning business on behalf of the Australian government.
Schedule a Service
Schedule a Service
Tell us how we can help. We’ll get back to you during business hours, Monday to Friday 6:30am – 4:30pm.