Search
Close this search box.

Air Conditioning FAQ’s

Author Rod Marchant-Smith | Peninsula Air Conditioning

This air conditioning FAQ is predominantly for Daikin systems, although many pointers will apply to other brands of air conditioning systems. Hopefully, this helps with waiting for office hours to talk to someone and could save you a call out fee too.

If, after reading this, you require a service call please go to air conditioning call-out service.

Jump to sections:

Problem Solving

Air is only coming out in part of the house?

Ducted systems can be designed so that only parts of the house (zones) are air-conditioned at any one time.  Check that the zone switch is turned on.  If you are still having problems, Peninsula Air Conditioning offers for service.

The unit won’t switch on and the green (or red) operation light is flashing?

Switch off at the mains switch or isolator, leave for at least 20 minutes and then switch back on. If the problem still occurs, please contact Peninsula Air Conditioning for service.

I have water leaking from my system?

Split systems

Indoor dirt, dust and debris can build up inside the air conditioner; mix this with humidity and the condensate drain can get blocked. Regular servicing should keep this clear. Condensate drains can be run into downpipes of the house; if this gets blocked with leaves and debris, it can back up your condensate drain. If your water is coming from the indoor unit switch OFF immediately and contact Peninsula Air Conditioning.

Ducted systems

Indoor Units – If your indoor unit is in the roof there will be a safety tray installed to catch any condensate that overflows, this will then drain to a small pipe coming out of the side of your house, usually just above the eve. If you see this leaking, switch OFF your system immediately and contact Peninsula Air Conditioning.

Outdoor Units – The condensate drain on the outdoor unit works when the system is on the heating mode. A drain kit may have been installed at installation. If this is not the case, it may be possible to install a drain kit for you. Water can also come from your outdoor unit if it’s iced up. This can mean that there is a problem with the system… generally a refrigerant gas issue. Contact PenAir for service.

My controller isn’t working?

Split System Remote Controllers

If there is no display on the remote check the batteries. To remove the batteries slide the remote panel down to reveal the other buttons, when it stops give it an extra tug to slide the panel off completely. The battery compartment should now be exposed. If replacing the batteries does not fix the issue, then make a note of the model number (ARC) on the back of the remote and contact Peninsula Air Conditioning for a replacement.

Alternatively, there are some remotes that can be purchased from our website – visit our store. If the remote has a display but it is not controlling the air conditioner, there may be an issue with one of the boards inside the air conditioner. Try resting the system from the main power source, switch the power to the air conditioner off and leave it off for 20 to 30 minutes. When you switch the system back on, leave it for 15 mins to gather itself. If you continue to have issues you will need a technician to assess them.

Fixed Wall Controllers

If your wall controller isn’t working, check that the main power to your air conditioner is on. Check the isolator switch by the outdoor system along with the trip switch in your fuse box. If these are all on contact us.

I have a code on my wall controller and my system has stopped working?

A fault code will display on the wall controller when the system malfunctions. Make a note of this code and reset your system by switching off the mains’ power and leaving for 20 – 30 minutes. This reset may be all you need to fix the issue; however, if the system malfunctions again or doesn’t work after the reset contact Peninsula Air Conditioning.

My air conditioner is faulty, will you have the parts needed and be able to fix it on the day?

When we come to diagnose a fault on your air conditioner, we do our utmost to fix the problem whilst we are there. However, there are certain reasons why this may not be possible…

  • The repair required is going to take a few hours. Sometimes the system needs a lot of time spent on it to repair, and in these circumstances, we would need to arrange to return to complete this. We will have other jobs booked in for that day and we cannot anticipate how long a repair will take without a technician assessing first. If this is the case the technician will report his findings to the office and our repair recommendations will be emailed to you. Once this is accepted we will schedule our soonest available date for repair.
  • Parts are required. Air conditioning systems are made up of lots of parts, both electrical and mechanical, and each model has different parts which are generally not interchangeable. It is not possible for us to have every part of every system with us. If this is the case the technician will report his findings to the office and our repair recommendations will be emailed to you. Once this is accepted we will order the parts and as soon as they arrive schedule you for our soonest available date for repair.
  • Two Technicians are required. The health and safety of our technicians is paramount. If it becomes apparent that the access is difficult and/or unsafe we would have to return for further work with two technicians.

 

Do I pay two callout fees if you need to return?

Absolutely NOT! Everything after the callout allotted time is then on an hourly rate. So if the technician returns to carry out a repair this does not incur another callout charge.

Should I repair or replace my faulty air conditioner?

This is the million-dollar question. There are certain things to take into consideration when trying to decide whether to repair or replace.

  • The age of the system?
  • How much is it going to cost to replace the system?
  • How much is the repair? Taking into consideration that other faults may occur after the initially diagnosed fault is repaired.
  • The warranty period on parts/repair compared to a replacement.
  • Wait time for repair – some older system parts can be unavailable or even have to be sourced from overseas, and these can take 6-8 weeks minimum.

 

We would say it’s worth paying for a technician to assess the faulty system before making a decision. If you decide to go with a replacement rather than a repair we will credit your Diagnostic Callout fee.

I have a refrigerant leak, what does this mean?

The refrigerant gas is used in air conditioners to produce heat and cooling. If there is a refrigerant gas leak, then the air may not be as cool or warm as it should be. Refrigerant gas leaks can occur, sometimes due to poor installation, others because a system has been knocked or bashed accidentally and the seals become broken. You may not be aware that this has happened until the system is not working and the majority of the refrigerant gas has leaked out, which could happen over a matter of months.

The system does not restart immediately after the On/Off button is pressed?

  • If the “Operation” lamp is on, the system is in its normal operating condition. It may not restart immediately because one of its safety devices has been activated to prevent the system from being overloaded. The system will turn on again after about three (3) minutes.
  • In cooling mode, the air conditioner will not start blowing air until such time as it has cooled the fancoil such that any air produced is cooled. This is to avoid blowing warm air before cooling has taken effect.
  • Wait one minute until the microcomputer is prepared for operation.

 

The outdoor unit is stopped? (Cooling Mode)

This is because the room temperature has reached the set temperature. The indoor unit will switch to fan operation.

Does white mist come out of the outdoor unit?

This can happen when the system reverts to HEATING operation after DEFROST operation. Moisture generated by the defrost function becomes steam and is released.

The air conditioner acts abnormally? There’s a smell of something burning, etc:

Switch OFF at the isolator switch or mains switchboard and contact Peninsula Air Conditioning. Failure to do so under such circumstances may result in a power failure, electric shock, or a fire.

A safety device, including a fuse, a circuit breaker or an earth leakage circuit breaker frequently actuates, or the on/off switch does not work properly?

Turn OFF the main power switch, leave it for a few minutes and switch it on. If the problem still occurs, please contact Peninsula Air Conditioning for repair – DO NOT keep resetting the system as this could cause further malfunctions of the system.

Water is leaking from the indoor unit?

Stop the operation and contact Peninsula Air Conditioning for repair, your condensate drain could be blocked.

The system does not operate at all?

  • Check to see if there is a power failure. Wait until power is restored. If a power failure occurs during operation, the system automatically restarts immediately after the power supply recovers. Check if a fuse has blown or the circuit breaker has tripped.
  • Change the fuse or reset the circuit breaker; switch off and leave for 20 minutes then switch back on again. If the system fails again or there is still no power call Peninsula Air Conditioning for repair.

 

The inspection display, unit number and the operation lamp flash (2) and the malfunction code appears?

Make a note of the fault code and contact Peninsula Air Conditioning for repair.

Does the system stop operating after a while?

  • Check if the air inlet or outlet of the outdoor or indoor unit is blocked by obstacles. Remove any obstacles and make the area well ventilated.
  • Check if the air filter(s) is/are clogged. Clean the air filter(s) (This is done with a soft clean cloth – if stains are difficult to remove use water. The filters should be cleaned at the start of summer and the start of winter.)

 

The system operates but it doesn’t sufficiently Cool or Heat?

Check the following:

  • See if the air outlet of the indoor or outdoor unit is blocked by obstacles. Remove the obstacle and make it well ventilated.
  • If the air filter is clogged. Clean the filters.
  • What temperature the system is set to.
  • If the fan speed control is set to a low speed.
  • If the doors or the windows are open. Shut doors and windows to prevent external air from coming in.
  • See if direct sunlight enters the room. (When cooling) use curtains or blinds.
  • When there are too many occupants in the room, the cooling effect is decreased, as there is too much heat in the room.
  • Check if the heat source of the room is excessive. The cooling effect decreases if the heat gain of the room is too large.
General Questions

Can I switch off the system at the main powerpoint or at the fuse box?

It is OK to turn the power off, especially if you are away for long periods. Most units have a low wattage crankcase heater that keeps the compressor warm. If the compressor is cold at start-up damage may occur. If you turn off your air conditioner for long periods ensure it’s turned on at least 12 hrs before use. It is also okay to turn the power off to reset the system.

I have a filter sign on my wall controller.

This comes on after a certain amount of running hours. It is to remind you to check your filter for cleaning or replacement. It’s a good time to contact Peninsula Air Conditioning and book a general service of your air conditioner if you haven’t had one carried out within the last 12 months. If you have, you can clear the filter sign by pressing and holding the clear button for at least 3 seconds.

Why is my system noisy?

There are a few reasons why your system might be noisy, depending on where the noise is coming from.

  • Check your filters are clean – if they are clogged this restricts the airflow and the system then overworks and gets noisy trying to draw in the required air.
  • A fan could be out of balance, or a problem with the fan motor.  Contact Peninsula Air Conditioning for service.
  • If you have a ducted system with zones, one of the zone motors may be faulty.  Contact Peninsula Air Conditioning for service.

 

There is a smell coming from my system.

Split Systems

This happens when the smells of the room, furniture or cigarettes are absorbed into the unit and discharged with airflow. An internal clean of the system is recommended. Contact Peninsula Air Conditioning for service.

Ducted Systems

Vermin can rips holes in the duct and make it their home, especially if it’s underfloor. Live and dead vermin have been found in ductwork on several occasions. Contact Peninsula Air Conditioning, we can assess and remove the offending animal if possible. We may advise that you need a pest controller to attend as well.

How do I change my system from cooling to heating, etc?

Split System Remote Controllers

Slide the remote panel down to reveal the other buttons. Find the mode button – this will toggle between various operation modes: Dry (raindrops), Cool (snowflake), Heat (sun), Fan (fan) and Auto (A in a box). Each press of the mode button will switch between each of these different modes. Select which mode you would like.

Note for Multi-Split systems – one outdoor unit to multiple indoor units. When more than one indoor unit is operating, priority is given to the first unit that was turned on. In this case, set the units that are turned on later to the same operation mode as the first unit. Otherwise, they will enter the ‘Standby Mode’, and the operation lamp will flash — THIS DOES NOT INDICATE A MALFUNCTION COOL / DRY and FAN mode may be used at the same time. However, if AUTO / COOL / HEAT is required, then the required mode has to be selected on the first unit to switch on with the others to follow suit.

Fixed Wall Controllers

There will be a mode button on the wall controller, this will toggle between various operation modes: Dry (raindrops), Cool (snowflake), Heat (sun), Fan (fan) and Auto (A in a box). Each press of the mode button will switch between different modes. Select which mode you would like.

Is it possible to move my air conditioner?

Anything is possible. However, moving a system can be time consuming and expensive. In some cases, there is no choice due to building work, etc… but please be aware of what is involved. The system will need to be pumped down (refrigerant gas reclaimed into the outdoor unit), disconnected, moved to the new location and reconnected. Depending on the new location, there may be more materials required, or be in a more difficult location to install into. So we would do this in 2 visits. The first visit would be to disconnect the system and store it in a safe, dry and dust-free location at your premises. Whilst we are there we would discuss the new location installation with you and forward this information back to the office where a quote for reinstallation would be generated. Please note that moving a system after installation may invalidate the manufacturer’s warranty.

How often should I clean my air filter?

As a general rule, you should clean your air filter when the filter light flashes, but this will vary depending on the air quality in your home and other environmental factors – in more dusty or polluted environments you should clean your filters more regularly. As a rule of thumb, you should clean your filters once every season in a normal domestic environment, and once a month for commercial applications.

How do I get a replacement filter for my air conditioner?

Split Systems

These generally have two types of filters, a standard filter and a bio anti-body filter. If you have the model number of the system, we can order them prior to your service. Alternatively, we can carry out a general service, take details and order the filters. Daikin Split System Air Conditioners feature air-purifying filters that not only trap most microscopic airborne particles, but also help to decompose odours, and absorb and deactivate bacteria and viruses.

Ducted Systems

This depends upon your setup and location of your return air and filter type; also sizes can vary. The main ones are…

  • Cloth filter/media – which can be washed and vacuumed. Over time the filter media will need replacing or a whole new filter with a frame will be ordered in for you. These are not always standard sizes and generally have to be custom made.
  • Filter Boxes – These are cardboard filters coming in standard sizes and generally need replacing on a regular basis. Green filters are the standard pleated filters, white filters have better filtration with a finer media blend – great for Asthma suffers.
  • Purtech filters – These filters fit Purtech return air grilles and have a plastic surround with a nylon mesh and come in 3 different sizes. These will last a long time and can be washed with warm soapy water.

 

What warranty do you offer?

Click here to see our warranty periods, this includes the manufacturer’s warranty.

Can I extend my installation warranty period?

Peninsula Air Conditioning offers a Domestic Maintenance Program. For each year you continue with the program we will extend the installation warranty up to a maximum of 5 years. See here for more details. It does not cover every eventuality but is a worthwhile investment.

Where do I get a warranty card?

You can download a Daikin domestic warranty card here. However, a model and a serial number of your system should be enough for you to log a warranty call with the manufacturer direct, should you wish to do so.

Can you give me a price for a new installation over the phone?

We *may* be able to give you a rough indication of the cost over the phone, however, a firm price will not be given until we have assessed your property/premises. All recommendations will be emailed.

Why do we need a technician to assess our property?

Every home is different, and the right air conditioner will depend on many factors, such as room orientation, window size and ceiling insulation to name but a few. It’s an important decision to get right, as an air conditioner that’s too small won’t adequately heat or cool your home, but one that’s too large will be inefficient and expensive to run.

I bought an air conditioner elsewhere, can you install it for me?

No, we only install systems we supply.

How much does my air conditioner cost to run?

Read our article on air conditioning running cost to get an idea.

What temperature should I set my air conditioner to?

Generally speaking in summer thermostats should be set 24°C–26°C. Every 1°C lower can increase running costs by up to 15%. If there is a hot day forecast, then pre-cool your house the night before. This is especially effective if your house has a high thermal mass such as solid brick. This will allow your air conditioner to work at its optimum during the cool evening, saving power and wear and tear on the unit. It also allows the unit to keep on top of the heat load as it begins to warm up during the heat of the day. In winter, on the reverse cycle, around 19°C–22°C is usually a good temperature.

My air conditioner won’t drop to the set temperature.

On extremely hot days, an air conditioner may not drop the temperature to the set temperature. If it’s 40°C outside, and you have your air conditioner set to 18°C, it’s unlikely to reach this set temperature. The air conditioner only has a differential of about 10°C-12°C degrees. To help reach your set temperature check the following:

  • That all doors and windows to the outside are shut.
  • Close all blinds.
  • Keep doors to unconditioned areas closed. (laundries, bathrooms, etc)
  • Air coming out of all outlets.
  • The correct thermostat has been selected. (Ducted systems)

 

What is the ARCTick?

Air Conditioning systems contain refrigerant gas and to work with refrigerant gas you need to be licensed. The Governing body is called the Australian Refrigeration Council and they have strict guidelines on how to handle gases to protect our environment. Companies will have a Refrigerant Trading Authorisation licence and individuals will have a Refrigerant Handling Licence. Always check the person coming to install/service your air conditioner has the ARCTick!

How long does it take to install an air conditioner?

This can vary depending upon the type of air conditioner, location and difficulty of access. Generally, a split air conditioner will take anything from a couple of hours to a whole day. A ducted air conditioner a day or two. When we come to have a chat with you about your requirements we can assess your property and gauge how long it will take.

Can I install an air conditioner myself?

An air conditioner should be installed by a suitably qualified technician. Installation by anyone else will invalidate the manufacturer’s warranty, as well as be illegal.

Can air conditioning make you sick, and does it have any health benefits?

Mould and bacteria can build up in an air conditioner and regular maintenance can prevent this. Daikin Split air conditioners also have photocatalytic filters for better filtration which works as an antibacterial agent. The outdoor unit removes carbon monoxide, exhaust gasses and bad odours via a thermal catalyst. The indoor unit’s flash streamer technology removes mould, formaldehyde and other allergens from the air. Daikin’s advanced air purifying filtration system was rewarded by The National Asthma Council making it the only split system to be authorised to use the Sensitive Choice symbol.

The Daikin Cora Split system also has a sophisticated titanium apatite photocatalytic air purification filter that traps even microscopic airborne dust particles, absorbs bacteria and viruses, and even breaks down odours. A well-maintained air conditioning system can only contribute to a healthier environment.

  • Because it controls humidity, the growth of dust mites and moulds is reduced. Air conditioning maintains humidity levels of 40 – 60% which is a great feature for people with allergies.
  • All units are equipped with a filter. The effectiveness of a filter includes catching dust, pollen, bacteria, viruses, odours, and even microbes and smoke.
  • Additionally, extreme heat has a clear negative impact on the intellect and on physical activity and the use of air conditioning can go some way to rectifying this.
  • It improves comfort levels at work and at leisure.
  • Improves job performance.
  • It can result in increased physical and intellectual activity.
  • A lower temperature reduces the presence of insects and parasites.
  • Lower temperatures mean less sweating, reducing the risk of dehydration.
  • If the air conditioning installation is good, and if it is well maintained, it renews and improves air quality.

 

What is the life expectancy of an air conditioner?

Looking after your air conditioner will help towards its longevity. Also take into consideration the environment your air conditioner is situated in, such as close to the sea, or a commercial environment that might have a large amount of footfall passing through. In these cases, maintenance may be suggested more regularly. If regularly maintained an air conditioner can last well in excess of 10 years. However, when the air conditioner starts having any problems that are marginally cost-effective to fix, it may be time to consider a replacement.

Service Questions

How often should I have my air conditioner serviced?

Domestic Environment

An annual service is usually sufficient for most domestic environments, however, there may be times when we advise more often.

Commercial Environment

This can vary and is dependent upon location and type of usage, such as server rooms, medical areas, etc. For some clients an annual visit is sufficient, however, others may require service as frequently as monthly. If you are interested in a commercial maintenance contract contact Peninsula Air Conditioning to arrange for a technician to assess the best course of action for you.

Why should I have my air conditioning system serviced?

Having your air conditioner regularly maintained will help towards prolonging the life of the air conditioner; it will also ensure a healthy environment, keep the system running efficiently saving you money on your electricity bills and prevent unwanted call outs for problems that arise from lack of maintenance.

I clean my filters, do I still need a service?

Cleaning filters is just part of what we do when we service your air conditioner. Cleaning Filters is one of the more important maintenance tasks, but there are other things that we can check and do, such as clear your condensate drain, that would be difficult for you to do yourself. So even if you clean your filters regularly, we would still suggest regular maintenance.

How long does a service take?

A general service usually takes about an hour for one system; sometimes it can take longer if the system needs extra attention or if there’s difficult access. Multiple systems in the same location can reduce the time per system required. For example, for 3 systems in the same house, we would allow 2 hours, not 3.

What is carried out during a service?

Discover what we do in our air conditioning services when we carry out a service on a Ducted, Split and Multi-Split system.

What’s the difference between a General Service and a Diagnostic Callout?

A General Service is clean of a system to ensure that it is working to the best of its ability. This includes checking items that can become troublesome if not cleaned regularly, such as condensate drains. A Diagnostic Callout is when your system has malfunctioned and a highly qualified technician is required to do testing of the system to diagnose its fault(s).

How long do I have to wait for a Technician’s visit?

Service / Diagnostics

It depends on the time of year and what’s already scheduled but on average about a week. At quieter times we can usually fit you in sooner; at busy times there can be a 2 to 3-week wait. So if it’s just a service you are looking for, contact us during Spring and Autumn rather than waiting until Summer/Winter

Quote for installation of a new system

Again, depends on the time of year, but on average about a week. Again Spring and Autumn are good times to start thinking about getting quotes. At busy times, such as October/November we can get booked up 2 to 3 weeks in advance. If this happens we stop taking on bookings and would ask you to contact us again in a week or two’s time if you’re still wanting us out to quote.

Lead time from acceptance of quote to installation.

We always try to book appointments for the soonest available date. In quieter times this could be just a few days, busier times can be u a few weeks. We can advise at the time of acceptance.

Free, No Obligation Consultation.

Get a Quote

Schedule a time with us to organise a quote for your home or business.

One of our technicians will perform an inspection and provide you with an obligation free quote.