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Even if your air conditioner seems to be working fine and keeps you comfortable throughout the year, it will eventually stop working if you don’t get it serviced regularly.

If you can’t remember the last time you had your air conditioner checked, it’s probably overdue for maintenance. Don’t keep delaying this important task – regular servicing of your air conditioner has many advantages.

Here are 6 reasons why you need to tune up your air conditioner. Regular maintenance of your air conditioners has many benefits, but today, we are mentioning the most essential six!

Like any other equipment, Air conditioning systems need proper maintenance. Regular AC system maintenance has many benefits beyond just keeping your home cool.

Air conditioning is a necessity in Australia. However, even though many people spend a lot of money on them, they need to take better care of their AC units.

Types of Air Conditioners

Choosing the right air conditioner for your needs helps achieve comfort and efficiency. Here are some types of air conditioners and where they are best used:

Wall Mounted: This common type, also called a ‘split system,’ has an indoor unit installed high on a wall and operated by a remote control. It’s available in different styles, sizes, and colours and can cool or heat from a single room to a larger area.

Multi-Split: This is like a split system, with one outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units. The bigger the outdoor unit, the more indoor units you can have. You can mix different types of indoor units, like wall-mounted and floor consoles, with one outdoor unit.

Ducted: This system uses hidden ductwork to cool and heat the entire property, making it great for larger buildings.

Floor Console: These units are good for areas with limited wall space. They provide effective heating and cooling and blend into the room’s decor.

Ceiling Cassette: Mounted flush with the ceiling, these units evenly distribute air in large rooms or open spaces.

Bulkhead: Ideal for rooms with little or no wall space, these units are discreetly installed in a ceiling bulkhead or above a wardrobe and use a short duct to supply air through a side wall vent.

What does Air Conditioner Maintenance Include?

During your air conditioner check-up, several important tasks prepare your AC for the upcoming season.

These tasks include:

  • Checking electrical connections and safety controls
  • Checking and adjusting the thermostat
  • Lubricating the fan motor
  • Measuring electrical usage
  • Checking airflow
  • Inspecting and cleaning the condenser
  • Inspecting and cleaning the evaporator coil
  • Checking refrigerant lines and levels
  • Checking start and run capacitors and relays
  • Checking the condensate drain

CLAIM YOUR VIC ENERGY AIRCON REBATE NOW!

6 Reasons Why You Need To Tune Up Your Air Conditioner

Your Air Conditioner Will Last Longer

Most air conditioners last about 10 years but can run for 15 to 20 years with good care.

Regular maintenance can greatly extend the life of your air conditioner, letting you enjoy its benefits for a longer time. Proper upkeep ensures your AC works well, reducing the chances of breakdowns and expensive repairs.

Various factors affect your heating and cooling system, such as the climate, the number of people in your household, and how often you use the system. Annual maintenance can prevent small problems from turning into big issues.

Your Unit’s Airflow Will Be Strong

If the airflow from your ducted air conditioner seems weaker than usual, your air filter might be blocked.

Regular cleaning is necessary to keep your air filters working well. When filters are clogged, they have to work harder to provide heating and cooling, which can reduce efficiency.

If the blockage is too severe, it can limit the airflow from your system. A thorough maintenance service will include cleaning or replacing your air filters if needed.

This ensures your system can continue to provide strong, reliable airflow.

Your Air Conditioner Will Be Safe

Air conditioning systems shouldn’t leak, though some condensation on a split system’s indoor unit is normal.

If you see significant moisture leaking, it might mean a blocked drain tube or a refrigerant (Freon) leak. Both issues can be dangerous and require immediate attention.

Contact a licensed professional to fix the problem. Trying to repair it yourself can cause more damage or create hazardous situations.

Regular maintenance helps prevent these issues, avoiding costly repairs and potential health risks.

You Will Save on Energy Bills

If you use an evaporative cooling system or reverse-cycle air conditioning, you likely have a routine for keeping your home comfortable year-round. Your energy bills should stay consistent with your usage habits.

However, if you see a sudden and significant increase in your energy bills that doesn’t match your usual usage, there might be a problem with your air conditioning system.

In this case, it is a good idea to contact experienced and certified repair specialists for a thorough air conditioning service.

A service can restore your system’s performance and prevent high energy bills by identifying and fixing the issue.

Regular Maintenance Is Cheaper Than Repairs

While we can’t guarantee your air conditioner won’t break down or have issues during the summer, we can check it thoroughly to ensure everything is working well and nothing needs replacing. Preventative maintenance usually costs less and helps prevent problems.

Preventative maintenance is essential for older units. A professional tune-up ensures the system works correctly, has no old or nearly broken parts, and will function when needed. A professional can also identify potential future issues and advise on whether to replace the unit.

A Tune-Up Increases Efficiency & Lowers Cooling Costs

Without regular maintenance, your AC system can lose 5% of its efficiency each year, meaning it won’t cool your house as well as it should if it were clean and maintained.

When the unit isn’t operating at peak efficiency, it runs more often, increasing monthly utility bills. Running more frequently also strains the unit, leading to expensive repairs.

Regular maintenance can help you avoid higher bills, costly repairs, and discomfort.

Some More Benefits of Tuning Up Your Air Conditioners

  • Better indoor air quality
  • Avoid leakage
  • Decrease the risks of diseases
  • Improve energy efficiency
  • Identify issues before they occur
  • Keep you warmer or cooler all year
  • Regular Maintenance Meets Warranty Guidelines
  • Return On Investment

When Do You Need to Say Goodbye and Upgrade to a New Air-Conditioner?

Regular maintenance surely increases your AC’s lifespan, but sometimes, it’s a great idea to get a new one as an upgrade. Buying a New Air Conditioner in Australia? Contact Cyanergy to get the best Air Conditioning upgrade in VIC.

Age of Your Air Conditioner:

Air conditioners usually last about ten years and require regular maintenance, including cleaning and replacing filters. If not well-maintained, they might not last as long. Older units can also look discoloured and outdated compared to newer models.

High Energy Bills:

Newer air conditioners are more energy-efficient than older ones, which can lower your energy bills. If your bills are higher than expected during peak usage, your old or faulty AC might use more energy.

For example, Cyanergy’s different series of air conditioners can save you a lot of energy costs. Given the rising cost of electricity, upgrading could save you money.

Frequent Breakdowns and Repairs:

If your air conditioner frequently breaks down or needs repairs, it might be time for a new one. Even if it still works, most units last around ten years.

Upgrading can prevent future problems, high utility bills, and repair costs. If your AC is nearing the end of its life or not working well, consider a replacement. Compare the cost of constant repairs with the investment in a new unit with a warranty.

Inconsistent Temperature:

If your air conditioner can’t consistently keep your home cool in summer or warm in winter, it might not be running effectively.

This could be a sign that it needs to be replaced. Regular servicing by a qualified technician can keep it in good condition, and the technician can also tell you if it’s time for a new unit.

Unpleasant Odours and Noise:

Strange smells or noises from your air conditioner often mean a serious issue. Turn off the unit and have it checked by a technician immediately to avoid further issues.

Poor Indoor Air Quality:

If you notice more allergens or dust indoors, your air conditioner might not work well. The type of filters in your unit matters. Some are washable and last long but may need replacing after several years.

Choosing the Right Air Conditioner

If you’re thinking of upgrading your air conditioner, it’s important to consider the different types available. Air conditioners come in various styles, such as wall-mounted, floor console, or ducted, each designed for different spaces.

Another significant factor is matching the unit’s capacity, measured in kW, to your space. If the capacity is too small, it will run constantly and use much power. If it’s smaller, it will cool the space too quickly, turn off often, and not work efficiently.

Choosing the right air conditioner can take time, so it might be helpful to talk to a professional. A specialist can help you make the best choice.

Contact Cyanergy and talk to our expert. Also, get a free quote for the best air conditioners!

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ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance

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ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance

Statement from American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) President and CEO Ray Long on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance:

“The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is deeply concerned that today’s Treasury guidance on the long-standing ‘beginning of construction’ safe harbor significantly undermines its proven effectiveness, is inconsistent with the law, and creates unnecessary uncertainty for renewable energy development in the United States.

“For over a decade, the safe harbor provisions have served as clear, accountable rules of the road – helping to reduce compliance burdens, foster private investment, and ensure taxpayer protections. These guardrails have been integral to delivering affordable, reliable American clean energy while maintaining transparency and adherence to the rule of law. This was recognized in the One Big Beautiful Act, which codified the safe harbor rules, now changed by this action. 

“We need to build more power generation now, and that includes renewable energy. The U.S. will need roughly 118 gigawatts (the equivalent of 12 New York Cities) of new power generation in the next four years to prevent price spikes and potential shortages. Only a limited set of technologies – solar, wind, batteries, and some natural gas – can be built at that scale in that timeframe.”

###

ABOUT ACORE

For over 20 years, the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) has been the nation’s leading voice on the issues most essential to clean energy expansion. ACORE unites finance, policy, and technology to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy. For more information, please visit http://www.acore.org.

Media Contacts:
Stephanie Genco
Senior Vice President, Communications
American Council on Renewable Energy
genco@acore.org

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Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System?

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Frequent power outages, unreliable grid connection, sky-high electricity bills, and to top it off, your solar panels are exporting excess energy back to the grid, for a very low feed-in-tariff. 

Do all these scenarios sound familiar? Your answer might be yes! 

These challenges have become increasingly common across Australia, encouraging more and more homeowners to consider solar battery storage systems. 

Why? Because they want to take control of their energy, store surplus solar power, and reduce reliance on the grid.  

But then again, people often get perplexed, and their biggest question remains: Should I get a Solar Battery Storage System in Australia? 

Well, the answer can be yes in many cases, such as a battery can offer energy independence, ensure better bill savings, and provide peace of mind during unexpected power outages, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.  

There are circumstances where a battery may not be necessary or even cost-effective. 

In this guide, we’ll break down when it makes sense and all the pros and cons you need to know before making the investment.

Why You Need Battery Storage Now?

According to data, Australia has surpassed 3.9 million rooftop solar installations, generating more than 37 GW of PV capacity, which is about 20% of electricity in the National Electricity Market in 2024 and early 2025.  

Undoubtedly, the country’s strong renewable energy targets, sustainability goals, and the clean‑energy revolution have brought solar power affordability, but the next step in self‑reliance is battery storage. 

Data from The Guardian says that 1 in 5 new solar installs in 2025 now includes a home battery, versus 1 in 20 just a few years ago, representing a significant leap in adoption.  

Moreover, the recent launch of the Cheaper Home Batteries program has driven this uptake even further, with over 11,500 battery units installed in just the first three weeks from July 1, and around 1,000 installations per day. 

Overall, the Australian energy market is evolving rapidly. Average household battery size has climbed to about 17 kWh from 10–12 kWh previously.  

Hence, the experts are assuming that 10 GW of new battery capacity will be added over the next five years, competing with Australia’s current coal‑fired capacity.

What Am I Missing Out on Without Solar Batteries?

Honestly? You’re missing out on the best part of going solar. 

Renewable sources of energy like solar, hydro, and wind make us feel empowered. For example, solar batteries lower your electricity bills, minimize grid dependency, and also help to reduce your carbon footprint 

But here’s the catch! Without battery storage, you’re only halfway there! 

The true magic of solar power isn’t just in producing clean energy; it’s storing and using it efficiently.  

A solar battery lets you store excess energy and use it when the sun goes down or the grid goes out. It’s the key to real energy independence. Therefore, ultimately, getting a battery is what makes your solar system truly yours.

Why You Need Battery Storage Now

Here’s a list of what you’re missing out on without a solar battery: 

  1. Energy Independence 
  2. Batteries help you to stay powered even during blackouts or grid failures. With energy storage, you don’t have to think of fuel price volatility and supply-demand disruption in the  Australian energy market. 

  3. Maximized Savings  
  4. Adding a solar battery to your solar PV system allows you to use your own stored energy at night instead of repurchasing it at high rates. It also reduces grid pressure during peak hours, restoring grid stability. 

  5. Better Return on Investment ROI 
  6. Tired of Australian low feed-in-tariff rates 

    Make full use of your solar system by storing excess power at a low price rather than exporting it. Solar panel and battery systems can be a powerful duo for Australian households.  

  7. Lower Carbon Footprint 
  8. Despite the steady growth in solar, wind, and hydro, fossil fuels still dominate the grid. Fossil fuels supplied approximately 64% of Australia’s total electricity generation, while coal alone accounted for around 45%. 

    These stats highlight why solar battery storage is so valuable. By storing surplus solar energy, homeowners can reduce their reliance on a grid that still runs on coal and gas.  

  9. Peace of Mind 
  10. Enjoy 24/7 uninterrupted power, no matter what’s happening outside.  

    Besides powering urban homes and businesses, batteries also provide reliable power backup for off-grid living at night when your solar panel can’t produce, ensuring peace of mind. 

What Size Solar Battery Do I Need?

While choosing the battery size, it isn’t just about picking the biggest one you can afford; it’s about matching your household’s energy consumption pattern. There is no one-size battery that will make financial or functional sense for everyone. 

Nevertheless, if you have an average family of four with no exceptional power demands, you may get by with a 10kWh to 12kWh battery bank as a ready-to-roll backup system.  

Well, this is just an estimation, as we have no idea of your power needs, because selecting a battery is highly subjective to the household in question. 

With that being said, you can get a good idea of how much power you use on average by analyzing your electric bill copy. Also, keeping track of which appliances you use the most and which ones require the most power will help you.  

So, to figure out the ideal battery size for your home, you need to consider three most important things: 

  1. Your Daily Energy Usage

Check your electricity bill for your average daily consumption (in kWh). Most Australian homes use between 15 to 25 kWh per day. 

  1. Your Solar System Output

How much excess solar energy are you generating during the day? That’s the power you’ll store to use later rather than exporting. 

  1. Your Nighttime Power Usage

A battery is most useful at night or during grid outages. So, estimate how much power you typically use after sunset. However, by using a battery, you can also get the freedom of living off the grid. 

Sizing Up: The Ideal Home Battery for Aussies! 

  • For small households and light usage, a 5 kWh battery will be suitable. 
  • For average Australian households, adding a 10 kWh battery would be enough. 
  • Large homes and high-energy users will need a 13 to 15 kWh system. 
  • For full independence, off-grid living, or blackout protection, you may require a larger battery size of 20+ kWh. 

Want help calculating your exact needs? Just drop your daily usage and solar output, and we’ll do the math for you! Cyanergy is here to help!  

Sizing Up: The Ideal Home Battery for Aussies! 

  • For small households and light usage, a 5 kWh battery will be suitable. 
  • For average Australian households, adding a 10 kWh battery would be enough. 
  • Large homes and high-energy users will need a 13 to 15 kWh system. 
  • For full independence, off-grid living, or blackout protection, you may require a larger battery size of 20+ kWh. 

Want help calculating your exact needs? Just drop your daily usage and solar output, and we’ll do the math for you! Cyanergy is here to help! 

How Much Do Solar Batteries Cost?

How Much Do Solar Batteries Cost

Previously, you would have to pay between $3000 and $3600 for the battery alone, plus the cost of installation, for every kWh of solar battery storage.  

However, you can currently expect to pay between $1200 and $1400 for each kWh of solar battery storage. That is a price reduction of approximately 52%, and things will only get better from here. 

Does that imply solar batteries are cheap now? Not really, but the cost is well justified by the pros of having a battery storage system. 

Also, while paying for solar batteries, you have to consider many other factors like the type of battery, your solar panel system configurations and compatibility, brand, and installation partner.  

These will significantly influence the price range of battery storage. 

Is a Solar Battery Worth It | Pros and Cons at a Glance

It’s okay to feel a little overwhelmed while deciding to invest your hard-earned money in a battery.  

So, here we’ve listed the pros and cons of having a solar battery to help you in the decision-making process. 

Benefits of Solar Battery Storage 

  • Solar batteries help you become self-sustaining. 
  • You don’t have to care about power outages anymore 
  • In the event of any natural disaster, you will still have a power source 
  • Battery prices are dropping significantly as we speak 
  • During peak hours, grid electricity prices increase due to high demand; you can avoid paying a high price and use your battery. It’s essentially free energy, as solar generates energy from the sun. 
  • Reduced carbon footprint as the battery stores energy from a renewable source. 

Advantages of battery for the grid and national energy system: 

  • Batteries support Virtual Power Plants (VPPs). In 2025, consumers get financial bonuses (AUD 250‑400) for joining, plus grid benefits via distributed dispatchable power.  
  • Grid‑scale batteries like Victoria Big Battery or Hornsdale Power Reserve are increasing system resilience by storing large amounts of renewable energy and reducing blackout risk. 

Drawbacks of Solar Battery Storage 

  • One of the biggest barriers is that solar batteries have a high upfront cost, which makes installation harder for residents. 
  • Home batteries require physical space, proper ventilation, and can’t always be placed just anywhere, especially in smaller homes or apartments. 
  • Most batteries, like lithium-ion batteries, last 5 to 15 years, meaning they may need replacement during your solar system’s lifetime. 
  • While many systems are low-maintenance, some may require software updates, monitoring, or even professional servicing over time. 
  • Battery production involves mining and processing materials like lithium or lead, which raise environmental and ethical concerns.   

Should You Buy a Solar Battery?: Here’s the Final Call!

You should consider buying a solar battery if several key factors align with your situation.  

First, it’s a strong financial move if you live in a state where federal and state incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost. This can make the investment far more affordable.  

A solar battery can be especially worthwhile if you value having backup power during outages, lowering your electricity bills, and gaining a measure of energy independence from the grid.  

Additionally, you should be comfortable with taking a few extra steps to get the most value out of your system, such as joining a virtual power plant (VPP), which allows your battery to participate in grid services in exchange for modest returns.  

Finally, it’s worth noting that rebates decline annually, and early adopters get the most value.  

Takeaway Thoughts

Installing a solar battery in Australia in mid‑2025 offers substantial financial, environmental, and energy‑security benefits, especially if you qualify for multiple subsidies and have good solar capacity.  

With rebates shrinking after 2025 and demand surging, early movers stand to benefit most. 

By helping balance the grid and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, home battery adoption contributes significantly to Australia’s national goals of 82% renewable energy by 2030 

It’s not just about savings; it’s about being part of a smarter, cleaner, more resilient electricity future for Australia. 

Looking for CEC-accredited local installers?  

Contact us today for any of your solar needs. We’d be happy to assist!  

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Renewable Energy

Wine Grapes and Climate Change

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I just spoke with a guy in the wine industry, and I asked him how, if at all, climate change is affecting what we does.

From his perspective, it’s the horrific wildfires whose smoke imbues (or “taints”) the grapes with an unpleasant flavor that needs to be modified, normally by creative methods of blending.

Wine Grapes and Climate Change

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