If your split system’s blowing hot air, rattling like a shopping trolley, or just not cooling like it used to, there’s a good chance it’s choked up with dust and grime. Dirty filters and clogged coils are one of the most common (and most ignored) causes of aircon dramas. Whether you're dripping with sweat in a Darwin wet season or cranking the heat during a Hobart winter, a clean AC isn’t just about staying comfy, it helps you breathe easier, cuts down on power bills, and keeps the whole system running smoother for longer.
In this Aussie climate guide to split system cleaning frequency, we'll walk you through:
- Why keeping your split system clean really matters (especially in Australia)
- How your system works and what needs regular TLC
- How often you should clean it based on your local climate
- Aussie maintenance tips and tools that make the job easier
- Which products we recommend for quick DIY jobs
- When it might be time for an upgrade
- A short customer story from sunny Queensland
- A handy FAQ section
Let’s crack on!
Why Clean Split Systems Matter in Australia
We Aussies love our air conditioning. Whether you're in Sydney's steamy west or the frosty hills of Tasmania, your split system keeps you comfy year-round. But here’s the catch—our diverse climates mean our AC units work harder, get dirtier, and need a bit more love than you might think.
In humid spots like Brisbane or Cairns, mould and bacteria build up fast. In dry, dusty areas like Broken Hill or Alice Springs, filters clog with dirt and pet hair. And in bushfire-prone areas, your outdoor unit can cop a coating of ash and debris.
A dirty AC can:
- Lose up to 20% efficiency (hello, higher power bills)
- Circulate dust, allergens, and even mould spores
- Shorten the lifespan of your system
- Leave your home feeling less cool or warm
Local tip: A Brisbane customer told us their unit "smelled musty for weeks" until they cleaned the coils. After that? Fresh air and fewer sneezes.
How Split Systems Work (and What Needs Cleaning)
Your split system aircon is made up of two main parts:
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Indoor unit: This blows cold (or warm) air into your room. It has filters, a coil (evaporator), and a fan.
-
Outdoor unit: This expels heat and contains the compressor and another coil (condenser).
Here’s what you need to keep clean:
- Air filters: Trap dust, pollen, and debris. Need regular cleaning.
- Coils (indoor & outdoor): Collect dirt and mould. Affects performance.
- Fan blades & casing: Can collect grime over time.
- Drain tray & pipe: If blocked, can leak or smell.
Cleaning isn’t just a cosmetic job—it keeps the whole system running smoothly.
Explore cleaning kits here: Split System Cleaning Maintenance Collection
Split System Cleaning Frequency: Australian Climate Guide
We’re not going to give you a one-size-fits-all answer because Aussie weather is anything but predictable. Instead, here’s a handy guide based on where you live:
Tropical North (e.g., Darwin, Cairns)
- Filters: Clean monthly
- Coils: Clean every 3 months
- Outdoor Unit: Wipe down monthly
- Why? High humidity = faster mould growth and gunk build-up
Coastal NSW & QLD (e.g., Sydney, Brisbane)
- Filters: Clean every 1–2 months
- Coils: Every 4–6 months
- Outdoor Unit: Clear away leaves quarterly
- Why? Salty air, humidity, and summer storms mean more debris
Southern States (e.g., Melbourne, Adelaide, Hobart)
- Filters: Every 2–3 months
- Coils: Twice a year (especially before winter)
- Outdoor Unit: Seasonal clean-up
- Why? Less use year-round but still builds up grime
Outback/Regional (e.g., Alice Springs, Broken Hill)
- Filters: Every month
- Coils: Every 3 months
- Outdoor Unit: Monthly dust-off
- Why? Dust and red dirt = clogged filters and fans
Quick Tip: Set a calendar reminder for a "filter check". It takes 2 minutes and saves you big later.
Aussie Cleaning Tips & Must-Have Tools
You don’t need to be a tradie to clean your split system. Just a bit of prep, patience, and the right tools. Here's what seasoned Aussie homeowners swear by:
🔧 Essential Tools
- HVAC Cleaning Bag: Catches drips while you clean the coils
- Fin Comb: Straightens bent fins for max airflow
- Coil Cleaner Spray: Dissolves dirt and kills mould
- Microfibre Cloths: For gentle wiping
- Disinfectant Spray: For filters and casings
🏋️ Cleaning Tips
- Always turn off the power before cleaning
- Remove and wash filters with warm soapy water
- Use a split system cleaning bag to safely clean coils
- Let everything dry fully before switching on again
- Don't forget the outdoor unit—hose it gently to remove dust/leaves
Check out this kit: Split System Cleaning Maintenance Collection
Maintenance Must-Knows
- Monthly filter checks during heavy-use seasons (summer & winter)
- Professional service once a year for deep cleaning and refrigerant checks
- Listen for strange noises or weird smells—early signs of trouble
- Check drainage to avoid leaks (especially in humid areas)
- Clean your remote too—it’s part of the system and collects grime
Best Product to Try: Our Top Pick
For quick and effective DIY maintenance, we recommend the Coil Cleaning Kit + Protective Bag combo. It includes:
- Spray-on foaming coil cleaner
- Adjustable drain-safe cleaning bag
- Instructions tailored for Aussie homes
Why it’s great:
- Reusable
- Safe on aluminum coils
- Designed for split systems used in Australia
Available now from our Split System Cleaning Collection
When It Might Be Time to Upgrade
No amount of cleaning can save a system that’s:
- Over 10–12 years old
- Struggling to cool/heat despite being cleaned
- Making loud clunky noises
- Causing higher energy bills with no explanation
- Constantly needing repair
In these cases, it might be more cost-effective to upgrade to a newer, more efficient unit. New models also have better filtration systems and self-cleaning modes!
Client Story: Bree from Townsville
Bree, a mum of two in Townsville, thought her split system was on its last legs. “The airflow was weak, the smell was horrendous, and my power bill had jumped,” she said. A local tradie quoted her $1,500 to replace it. Instead, she gave cleaning a go using our coil cleaning spray and bag.
"It took me 45 minutes, and I was shocked at the gunk that came out! My unit is now running beautifully and smells clean."
Bree now cleans her filters monthly and gives the coils a scrub every 3 months. Her power bill dropped by 15%.
Key Takeaways
- Clean split system filters every 1–3 months depending on climate
- Regular coil cleaning boosts energy efficiency and air quality
- Use a coil cleaner spray and protective bag for easy DIY maintenance
- Professional service once a year is still recommended
- Don’t ignore smells, leaks, or poor airflow—they’re warning signs
- Explore our cleaning tools collection for fast Aussie delivery
Don’t wait until your split system gives up in the middle of summer. Take a few minutes now to check those filters and prep for your next clean.
Explore our full range of Split System Cleaning Maintenance Tools —delivered fast across Australia.
Got a question? Our Aussie team is just a click away.
FAQs
Q: Can I use vinegar to clean my filters? A: Yes, diluted vinegar is a great natural option to kill mould. Just rinse well and let dry before reinstalling.
Q: How do I know if my coils need cleaning? A: If your unit is blowing weak air, smells bad, or cycles more often, it’s a good sign your coils are clogged.
Q: What’s the difference between a professional clean and DIY? A: DIY covers filters and basic coil care. Pros can clean deeper parts, check refrigerant, and test electrical components.
Q: How long does cleaning take? A: Filters take 5–10 mins. Full coil cleaning takes about 30–45 mins.