SEASONAL
Heatwave prep: 7 checks before Melbourne’s next 38°C week
Cold Bear technical team · 4 min read
Air conditioner failures cluster on the first genuinely hot week of summer — the day everyone switches on at once is the day tired systems give up. And that’s exactly when service books fill and lead times stretch. A few checks now can save you a sweaty week and a rushed call-out later.
Clean or replace the filters
Blocked filters are the single most common cause of weak cooling. Pull them out, check for a grey mat of dust, and wash or replace. Do this every few weeks through summer.
Clear the outdoor unit
The condenser outside needs airflow. Cut back plants, sweep away leaves, and give it at least 30–50cm of clearance on all sides. A choked condenser works harder for less.
Watch for weak or warm airflow
If the air isn’t as cold as it used to be, or the system runs constantly without reaching temperature, that can point to low refrigerant or a performance fault — worth a professional check before peak season.
Listen for new noises
Rattles, grinding or a change in the hum are early warnings. Catching a failing fan or bearing now is far cheaper than a mid-heatwave breakdown.
Set a sensible thermostat schedule
Pre-cool before the heat peaks and hold a steady temperature rather than dropping it to 16°C at 3pm. Steady beats blasting, both for comfort and for the compressor.
Check the drain
A blocked condensate drain causes water leaks and can shut the unit down. If you saw drips last summer, get it cleared now.
Book a pre-summer service if it’s overdue
If your system hasn’t been serviced in over a year — or ever — a proper service checks refrigerant, electricals and performance, and catches the small faults before they become a hot-day emergency.
Beat the summer rush
Book a pre-summer service now, while the diary’s still open — before the first hot week fills it.
General guidance only. Refrigerant handling and electrical work must be done by a licensed technician (ARC AU40629).
