Published

2 years ago

January 3, 2024

Alice Rush

As the seasons change, your trusty air conditioner plays a pivotal role in maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. However, for it to perform at its peak, a little TLC is in order. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll unveil the secrets to keeping your air conditioner in top-notch condition. From banishing dust bunnies to fine-tuning its vital components, we’ve got you covered. Quit wondering how to clean air conditioner, keep on reading to know it today!

1. Regular Cleaning: Sweeping Away the Dust Bunnies

Picture this: your air conditioner as a fresh breath of mountain air, but with a few dusty cobwebs in the way. Regular cleaning is the secret to maintaining optimal performance.

Efficiency Improvement

Energy Savings: A clean air conditioner operates more efficiently, requiring less energy to cool or heat your space. This translates into potential cost savings on your energy bills. Did you know that clean filters can lower energy consumption by 5% to 15%? That’s like upgrading from a bike to a sports car!

Enhanced Cooling/Heating Capacity: Clean filters and coils allow for better heat exchange, ensuring that your air conditioner can reach and maintain the desired temperature more effectively.

Prolonged Lifespan

Regular cleaning helps prevent wear and tear on your air conditioner’s components. This can extend the lifespan of your unit, saving you money on premature replacements.

Optimal Airflow

Dust and debris accumulation on filters and coils restricts airflow. This reduction in airflow can lead to decreased cooling or heating efficiency and may result in uneven temperature distribution throughout your space.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

Clean filters trap dust, pollen, mold spores, and other airborne particles. This is particularly crucial for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues, as it helps maintain a healthier indoor environment.

Compliance with Warranty Requirements

Many manufacturers include routine maintenance, such as regular cleaning, as a requirement for maintaining the warranty on your air conditioning unit. Failing to adhere to these maintenance guidelines might void your warranty.

2. Checking and Straightening Fins

Think of the fins as your aircon’s aerodynamic warriors, slicing through the air for maximum cooling power. Sometimes, they get a bit bent out of shape, but fear not! With a gentle touch, we’ll straighten them out, ensuring your aircon conducts its cooling symphony with precision and grace.

3. Monitoring Thermostat Settings: The Maestro’s Baton

Your thermostat is the maestro of this orchestra, setting the perfect temperature notes. Did you know that adjusting your thermostat by just one degree can save up to 3% on your energy bill?

Keeping an eye on your thermostat settings is like being the director of your own comfort show with your air conditioner as the star performer. The thermostat, your backstage wizard, helps create the perfect temperature vibes in your space. Tweaking those settings isn’t just about making things cozy—it’s like conducting a symphony of comfort and savings.

Picture this: every little adjustment is a note in the melody of your energy efficiency. It’s a bit like saving money while keeping your cool or staying toasty. And if your thermostat is the main actor, then programmable or smart thermostats are like the supporting cast, making the whole performance a well-orchestrated routine that syncs with your daily life.

So, why bother with these settings? Well, think of it as not just setting the stage for a comfy home but also taking charge of how much energy your air conditioner uses. It’s a small move that brings big rewards—customized comfort and a more efficient AC system, creating a vibe that’s both cool and cost-effective.

4. Inspecting and Cleaning Ductwork: The Grand Air Ballet

Within the ductwork lies the secret passage of comfort. Leaks and dust are the villains, threatening to steal the show. Seal those gaps, banish the dust, and let your air flow freely. This not only saves energy but also ensures your indoor air quality remains top-notch!

Regularly inspecting and cleaning ductwork is crucial for multiple reasons. Firstly, it ensures improved indoor air quality by eliminating dust and allergen accumulation, crucial for those with respiratory conditions. Secondly, it enhances energy efficiency by allowing unrestricted airflow, potentially reducing energy bills and carbon footprint.

Thirdly, it prevents mold growth by addressing moisture-prone areas during regular inspections, preserving both air quality and system efficiency. Lastly, clean ducts guarantee consistent temperature distribution, preventing uncomfortable hot or cold spots. In essence, maintaining ductwork is a holistic approach to ensuring a healthy, energy-efficient, and comfortable living environment.

Precautions for Inspecting and Cleaning Ductwork

Professional Inspection

While homeowners can perform basic visual inspections, a professional duct inspection is recommended to identify issues such as leaks, gaps, or signs of mold. Professionals use specialized equipment like cameras to thoroughly assess the condition of your ducts.

Sealing Leaks

Duct leaks can significantly impact energy efficiency. Sealing any gaps or leaks in the ductwork prevents conditioned air from escaping, ensuring it reaches its intended destination within your living space.

Use of Proper Cleaning Methods

Duct cleaning may involve using specialized tools to dislodge and remove accumulated debris. It’s crucial to use methods that comply with industry standards and avoid damaging the ducts.

5. Lubricating Moving Parts: The Ballet of Efficiency

Imagine your aircon’s moving parts gliding effortlessly, a ballet of efficiency. With the right lubrication, we’ll ensure they work in perfect harmony, reducing friction and further premature wear and tear. It’s like giving your aircon a pair of sleek, energy-efficient shoes! Make sure to seek experts advice or follow manufacturers guidelines before approaching the task.

6. Checking Refrigerant Levels: Why is this Important?

Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your air conditioner, coursing through its veins. Too much or too little can lead to performance hiccups. Regular checks ensure your aircon stays cool, calm, and collected, even during the hottest summer days.

Checking refrigerant levels is vital for your AC’s peak performance and longevity:

Efficient Heat Exchange: Ensures optimal absorption and release of heat for effective cooling or heating.
Energy Efficiency: Contributes to lower energy consumption, promoting cost savings.
Prevention of System Damage: Avoids compressor stress and potential damage, preventing expensive repairs.
Consistent Cooling/Heating: Maintains reliable performance for comfort in any weather.
Avoiding Icing Issues: Prevents evaporator coil freezing, ensuring even airflow.
Optimal Humidity Control: Supports a comfortable indoor environment by controlling humidity.
Longevity of the System: Extends the lifespan of your AC, reducing the likelihood of breakdowns.
Environmental Responsibility: Minimizes environmental impact by preventing the release of harmful gases.

In short, monitoring refrigerant levels is a proactive step for a well-functioning, efficient, and environmentally responsible air conditioning system.

7. Scheduling Professional Maintenance: The Grand Finale

Once a year, it’s time for the red-carpet treatment. The HVAC technician steps in as the maestro, conducting a thorough inspection and tune-up. This ensures your aircon remains a marvel of efficiency, delighting you with its cooling prowess year after year.

With these seven enchanting steps, your aircon will be a masterpiece of efficiency, offering you comfort and tranquility, year after year. Here’s to a well-maintained oasis of heating and cooling!

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The post 7 Ways You can Maintain your Air conditioner appeared first on Cyanergy.

7 Ways You can Maintain your Air conditioner

Renewable Energy

Why Not Behead Dissidents? It Worked for Millennia

Published

12 hours ago

November 26, 2025

Alice Rush

A segment of Newsmax tonight began with many clips from commentators from both parties saying that Donald Trump is the most powerful person in the word. “All right, enough!” the host finally interjected. “Well, if he is the most powerful person in the world, why can’t he appoint whoever (sic) he wants to prosecute James Comey and Letitia James?”

Well, we do have a few sticking points here.

We have the U.S. Constitution, and 200+ years of rule of law, and the concept that no one is above the law.

And we have the question, “Given that they have taken stances against Trump, why not have them both summarily beheaded?” Given that we no longer have a balance of powers among the supposedly three co-equal branches of government, what’s the big deal?

Three hundred years ago, that’s precisely would have happened to people who took public stances against a king.

We either stand for freedom and loyalty to a constitution — or we don’t. We can’t have it both ways.

Why Not Behead Dissidents? It Worked for Millennia

Renewable Energy

Solar PV on a Car’s Roof

Published

1 day ago

November 25, 2025

Alice Rush

There is no need to physically attach solar panels to your car’s roof to determine if it will charge your car. Of course it will while it’s in the sun. Let’s do some math:

If:

The area of this Tesla’s roof is 2 square meters (being generous),

The efficiency of the panels is 25%,

The capacity factor of solar (depending on your location) is 20%,

The sun’s irradiance is 1000 watts per square meter,

The Tesla’s battery capacity is 100 KWhrs,

And we neglect the increased weight and drag of the array,

We’re talking about 100 hours, more than 4 days.

Doesn’t sound like a bargain, especially considering that if you overbuild the solar array on your roof and charge your car in your garage, you’ve achieved the same goal at far less expense and inconvenience.

Solar PV on a Car’s Roof

Renewable Energy

How Much Can You Save with VEU? Rebate & Costs Compared

Published

1 day ago

November 25, 2025

Alice Rush

Sometimes upgrading your home’s heating or cooling system can feel like navigating a maze.

However, with exciting incentives like the “ducted aircon rebate VIC” and schemes comparing “split vs ducted rebate,” it’s worth conducting a thorough analysis before making a purchase.

Therefore, in this blog, we’ll explore three major air conditioning types: ducted, single-split, and multi-split, sometimes called multi-head, and break down which might be best for you, especially under the VEU programme in Victoria.

Here, we’ll also cover pros & cons, cost & rebate implications, efficiency & zoning, suitable house types, and real-world case comparisons.

So, for further details, tag along!

In this blog post:

Victoria’s Air Conditioning System: Ducted, Split, & Multi Split!

Before concluding which system performs best under Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU), let’s examine how each air conditioning system works, what they are, and their pros & cons.

Let’s start with the ducted system air conditioners:

Ducted Reverse Cycle Air Conditioner Systems

A ducted system uses a central outdoor unit and typically one indoor air handler. The outdoor unit is connected via ducts running through the ceiling or under the floor to distribute air through vents in each room.

Pros of Ducted System

Ducted system ensures whole-home comfort. It is a single system with multiple vents that allow you to heat or cool the entire house more efficiently.
This system doesn’t hamper the aesthetics of your home as the indoor equipment is typically hidden, and vents are discreet.
It allows zoning control, so larger homes can be divided into zones, allowing heating or cooling only specific parts of a house when needed.

Cons of Ducted System

The installation process is more complex as it requires duct cleaning and filter maintenance.
This ducted aircon system costs higher.
If ducts are not well-insulated, there is a chance of inefficiencies and energy losses.
For smaller homes, it might not be suitable and cost-effective.
A higher upfront cost may reduce net savings when your usage is low.

Single Split Systems

Single Split system is a classic reverse-cycle wall-hung indoor unit connected to an outdoor unit, with one indoor head per outdoor compressor. They are typically used for a single room or open area.

Pros of Single Split System

Typically, a simple setup that requires lower installation costs and equipment.
Suitable for smaller homes, individual rooms, or selective upgrades.
They can be controlled independently.

Cons of a Single Split System

If you have multiple rooms, you’ll need multiple splits or outdoor units, which can increase the cost and complexity.
Not as seamless a whole-home comfort as a ducted system.
Multiple visible indoor units on the wall might hamper the building’s aesthetic appeal.

Multi-Split Air Conditioner Systems

Multi-split systems are a hybrid of sorts, featuring one outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units, typically ranging from 2 to 6 heads.

It’s often used for larger homes where residents want flexible zoning but without complete ductwork.

Pros of Multi-Split Air Conditioner

It strikes a good balance, featuring fewer outdoor units than many single-split systems while still offering flexible room-by-room control.
Often lower in cost than full ducted for whole-home systems.
More efficient than many separate single splits.

Cons of a Multi-Split Air Conditioner

The indoor heads are still visible, and the outdoor unit also remains outside.
Although it is cheaper than a ducted system, it is more expensive than a simple single-split air conditioner.

Are VEU Rebates Worth It? | Cost Comparisons & Rebate Benefits

The VEU programme offers a rebate via VEECs (Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates) when you upgrade to a high-efficiency reverse-cycle air conditioner or replace an older, inefficient heating and cooling system.

However, there are specific eligibility criteria you must meet to qualify for this air conditioning rebate in Victoria. Those are:

Your property must be more than two years old and located in Victoria.
The product or model must be VEU-approved.
The installation must be performed by a VEU-accredited provider.
For tenants who want to upgrade their system, they must obtain their landlord’s consent.

Typical rebate amounts: How Much Can You Really Save?

If you are in Victoria and planning to upgrade your air conditioner, the VEU rebate program can undoubtedly help you save big.

However, remember that under the VEU program, whether it’s ducted, split, or multi-split, any of these systems can earn you the same rebate if they meet the energy efficiency standards.

You can save $300–$1,500 on a new split, multi-split, or ducted unit. Accredited installers typically apply the rebate as an upfront discount, making it an easy way to upgrade, reduce energy bills, and stay cool for less.

Here are some recent data about the rebates available for Victorian homes:

If you replace a non-ducted gas heater (3-9 kW) with an efficient room-reverse cycle air conditioner, rebates might be $630 to $1,610.
Similarly, if you replace a ducted gas heater (whole-house) with e.g. 4 split systems (1×8kW + 3×3kW), you’ll get a rebate up to $2,520.
For Multi-split whole-home upgrades, the discount amount is typically around $2,940.
Ducted reverse-cycle upgrades, such as replacing a central electric resistance ducted heater, can qualify for significantly larger rebates, ranging from $5,460 to $7,700 in some cases.

Cost Analysis: What You Pay vs Rebate Value!

Single split: lower upfront installation cost with a decent rebate, but smaller savings.

Multi-split: moderate upfront cost, moderate rebate and good middle ground.

Ducted: highest install cost, but highest possible rebate (especially when replacing very inefficient systems).

So, what’s best under the VEU: ducted, split, or multi-split aircons?

Well, the “split vs ducted rebate” question depends on what you’re replacing. If you already have ducted heating, switching to ducted reverse cycle may offer a strong rebate, but it still entails a significant installation cost.

Whereas if you only need one room or two, single splits make sense in your case. For apartments, small houses, and multiple-room offices, a multi-split system can be your ideal choice.

Factors That Influence the VEU Air Conditioner Rebate

When you search “ducted aircon rebate VIC” or “split vs ducted rebate”, remember that the rebate alone doesn’t tell the full story.

You must also consider installation cost, system sizing, efficiency savings, and long-term running costs. Therefore, your rebate or discounts might differ from those offered in Australia.

Here are the factors that influence the rebate amount:

What you are replacing matters. For instance, upgrading a gas ducted system, a gas space heater, or switching to smart LED lighting each qualifies for a different rebate value.
The size of the new system is crucial for the rebate. Remember, bigger systems mean more certificates.
Efficiency of the new system: higher-rated units receive a higher rebate.
Must use an accredited installer and the eligible product list.

Maximising Aircon Efficiency| Power of Zoning & Maintenance

When it comes to energy efficiency, multi-split systems can often deliver lower annual energy costs than ducted systems in certain scenarios.

For example, one guide shows that a standard multi-split system costs around $63 per year to run, while a high-efficiency model can be as low as $40 per year.

In comparison, a standard non-zoned ducted system costs approximately $79 per year, while a high-efficiency ducted system costs around $55 per year.

Ducted systems can lose efficiency if the ductwork is poorly insulated or if there are leaks in the ducts. On the other hand, split and multi-split systems allow you to heat or cool only the rooms you actually use, which makes them more efficient for selective room use.

Zoning

Ducted: Can be zoned to separate upstairs and downstairs, but this requires more equipment and smart controls, which adds cost and complexity.
In Multi-split, each indoor head is effectively its own zone, making it great for families with different preferences.
A single split provides control for only one room. They are simple, but lack whole-home zoning.

Maintenance

In a ducted system, regular maintenance includes checking ducts, cleaning filters, the indoor handler, and the outdoor unit.
If the ductwork is hidden in the ceiling or walls, repairs or cleaning can be more difficult.
In a split or multi-split system, each head needs filter cleaning, and the outdoor unit needs maintenance. Multi-split is still simpler duct-wise.
Ducted, Split or Multi-split, every system requires regular servicing every 1-2 years to help maintain optimal efficiency.

Which System Works Best for Your Victorian House?

Here’s a breakdown by house type, along with a real-life case scenario.

Budget tight or small area to upgrade? Go with a Single Split system.

If the house is modest in size, with 1-2 bedrooms, and you only need to target one main living area or bedroom, a single split is a cost-effective option.
Though the VEU rebate is lower, the installation cost is too, making it worth it.

Medium-Sized Home

If you want flexibility and cover multiple rooms but not the whole house, go with a multi-split air conditioning system:

If you want whole-home coverage with 3-4 bedrooms, but don’t have extensive ductwork or don’t want the cost of full ducted coverage.
A multi-split system with 3-4 indoor heads will provide a good balance of cost, comfort, zoning, and rebate.
Especially good if each room needs its own control.

Large Homes or Multi-level Houses

Consider installing a Ducted System if you desire whole-home comfort.

If you already have ductwork, or if you want a seamless, hidden system with vents in every room.
If your installation cost is justified and you want a single central control.

Under the VEU scheme, you may be eligible for the highest rebate if you replace an extremely inefficient system, such as an old electric resistance or ducted gas system, with a high-efficiency ducted reverse cycle.

To wrap up

Choosing between ducted, single split and multi-split under the VEU air conditioner rebate scheme in Victoria doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. It varies from home to home.

However, what’s important is that you must weigh the upfront installation cost, rebate size, running efficiency, comfort, and how you live in your home before upgrading your system.

For some, the “ducted aircon rebate VIC” looks very attractive, and in other cases, the split system rebate can be more beneficial, especially for smaller homes replacing inefficient systems.

So, if you’re struggling to figure out which air conditioning system is best under the VEU program or which one offers the biggest savings, let Cyangery’s team of experts help you make the right choice.