Air-Conditioning Blog

Understanding Different Types of Air-Conditioners

It’s Hot. Let’s Make It Cool.

Air-Conditioners come in many shapes and sizes, and it can be bewildering to try and understand what the best solution is for your home or business. In this article, we examine popular types of AC units and look at the pros and cons of each approach. Our approach takes into account the context of the rooms you’re looking to cool, and we also cover Kilowatts and their meaning in an air-conditioner purchase.

Why Understanding Air-Conditioner Types is Useful

Understanding air-conditioner types is useful to optimise your air-conditioners performance, running costs, maintenance requirements and longevity. Getting the right unit for the job will ensure it has the capability to manage your internal environment while operating within an optimal capability range.

There are a wide range of important considerations to take into account, which we cover in this article. If you’re on the Sunshine Coast, please don’t hesitate to contact our team to access our expertise in all things AC, including sales, installation, servicing, repairs, maintenance & cleaning.

Understanding Costs

The upfront cost of an appliance is always an important factor. However, appliances last (hopefully) a long time. Bearing in mind your air-conditioner may have a lifespan of 10-15 years, there are other costs which should also be taken into account. By being aware of these at the time of purchase, you can make a better-informed decision about the type of air-conditioner best suited to your needs over the long term of owning the appliance.

Here are the cost considerations to be aware of:

Purchase Cost: The initial cost of the air-conditioner
Installation Cost: When an installation requires an electrician (for example, a split system or ducted system) there will be an installation fee that will depend on the time and complexity of the installation.
Running Costs: The more you use your air-conditioner, the more electricity it will use. The cost of running your AC will depend on extent of use, and the efficiency of the unit.
Service Costs: Like any mechanical appliance, air-conditioners work best with regular servicing and cleaning.
Repair Costs: Higher quality brands will generally work longer and more reliably, just like any purchase. The cost and frequency of repairs required will depend on the AC unit, how well it is looked after (e.g. regular servicing) and how old it is.

The Goal to Aim For:

The goal when purchasing an air-conditioner is to acquire a unit that is well-suited to the task, adequately powerful, as efficient as possible, and of a good brand and model that will reduce problems and costs in the long run.

Reviewing Your Internal Layout

It is essential to review, and understand, the layout of your premises to select an air-conditioner that will suit your goals. For example, the kW capacity of your air-conditioner will need to be optimised to the space you want to cool (there’s more on this topic below). Also, the number of rooms you wish to heat or cool will also affect your decision. Here are the main points to take into account when assessing your layout:

How many rooms do I want to cool?
How big are these rooms?
Are they joined, or separate rooms?
How many levels are there in the premises?
Is it for residential or commercial purposes?

There are some handy resources available related to this topic at: lookforthetick.com.au. Don’t worry – when you discuss an air-conditioner sale or installation with our team, we’ll help you solve all of these problems, as we are experts in this field.

Understanding Capacity – Kilowatts

Air-Conditioners have a kilowatt rating which determines the size of the room that they are capable of cooling. Very important! This affects both the capability and the cost of the unit. Capacity is represented in KiloWatts (Kw) and more Kw means more capacity. It also means that the air-conditioner will cost more to purchase. Therefore, you want to get an air-conditioner unit which has a suitable capacity for its intended purpose. You can get some great insight on this aspect at this article by choice.com.au.

According to appliancesonline.com, the following guide can be used to calculate the required Kw:

Generally speaking, you’ll need roughly about 0.15 kilowatts per square metre. For example, a smaller room that measures 20 square metres would need an air con around 3kW, while a 60 square metre room would need a device capable of delivering around 9kW. If your wattage is too low for your room, the air conditioner won’t be able to lower the temperature efficiently.

When you talk to our team, we will give you a free quote for your air-conditioner and also determine a suitable capacity brand & model for your purposes.

Types of Air-Conditioners

Following are popular, common styles of air-conditioning solutions. At Noosa Electric Co, our sales and installations include either split systems or ducted systems, but our AC technicians perform repairs, servicing and maintenance on most common air-conditioner modalities.

Portable & Window Air Conditioners

Portable air-conditioners are a single, standalone unit that you plug in to use, like any other appliance. They can be moved from room to room. Window air-conditioners are similar, except that they are mounted in a window frame, and are generally a more permanent installation. Both of these options are relatively inexpensive, and may not require professional installation. However, their energy-efficiency, running costs, cooling-capability, loudness and appearance may not make them practical for a long-term air-conditioning solution.

Split System Air Conditioners

Split systems are one of the most popular air-conditioning options for homes and businesses on the Sunshine Coast. They are called ‘split’ systems because they are made up of 2 separate components, an indoor and an outdoor unit (see below). These type of air-conditioners come in a variety of different models, which are suitable for cooling single rooms (split system, mini-split system) to multiple rooms (multi-split, multi-head split).

Indoor Unit

The indoor unit is mounted inside on the wall, and emits cool air into the room. The indoor unit can be controlled with a remote to modulate internal cooling or (depending on the model) heating. The indoor unit is connected to the outdoor unit, which is also known as the condenser or heat exchanger.

Outdoor Unit

Also known as the condenser or heat exchanger, the outdoor unit sits outside and works together with the indoor unit to produce your air-conditioning.

This image displays the outdoor unit in a split system configuration. You can see the piping that connects the units. This piping is usually more discrete, but it depends on the installation.

Single Room Split System Air Conditioning

Single split system air-conditioners, or mini splits, are designed for cooling a single room. These are the go-to for most of our Sunshine Coast residential AC installation jobs. The separated split system design is more efficient and capable than integrated units such as the portable or window air-conditioners mentioned above. They also have a more streamlined appearance, taking into account the capability of the unit, since half of the system resides outside. Split system air-conditioners require installation by a professional electrician.

A key advantage of split systems is that they can be easily retro-fitted to established homes or businesses. This isn’t always possible with a ducted air-conditioner (see below), which are integrated into the actual building, usually at the time of construction.

There are quite a few choices to make when evaluating a split system for your home or business. Our team is here to help. We can guide you to a suitable brand and model for your purposes, and our electricians will install the unit for you.

Split System FAQ

What is the difference between a Split System and and an Air-Conditioner?

A Split System is a type of air-conditioner. There are quite a few different types of air-conditioners – read all about them on this page! A split system gets its name from the fact that it comes in two parts, and indoor and an outdoor unit, which work together to create a complete air-conditioning solution.

Can split systems heat as well as cool?

This capability depends on the model. A reverse cycle air-conditioner can heat as well as cool. If you want this capability in your air-conditioner, make sure the model you’re looking at includes the reverse-cycle feature.

Learn more

Multi-Head Split System Air Conditioners

A multi-head, or multi-split system air-conditioner is a type of split system for situations where more than one room requires air-conditioning.

With a multi-head split system, a single outdoor unit is linked to multiple indoor units (rather than just the standard single unit). This enables cooling, or heating of multiple, separate rooms.

Another popular option for air-conditioning multiple rooms is ducted air-conditioning. However, ducted air (see below) needs more space to install and is integrated into the building design, whereas split systems, including multi-splits, can be installed more easily because of their agile disposition.

Multi-Split FAQ

Can you heat some rooms and cool others simultaneously?

According to Daikin, this isn’t possible. While individual rooms can be set to different temperatures, they must all be either heating, cooling, or turned off. However, you can apply different degrees of heating OR cooling to all the rooms. Features like this may depend on the model.

Learn more

Floor Standing Air Conditioners

Floor-standing units are like a split system in all regards except that they are mounted on the floor (split systems are mounted on the wall). Otherwise, they’re the same – there is an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, and they can be fitted or retro-fitted to a home or business by a licensed electrician.

Learn more

Floor standing systems with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries

Ducted Air-Conditioners

Ducted air-conditioners are an integrated air-conditioning system that is built into the actual structure, usually at the time of construction. They can be used to cool an entire building, and perform large-scale cooling more efficiently than other types of air-conditioners. Ducted systems involve an outdoor unit, an indoor unit (unlike the split system, this indoor unit is tucked away out of sight), and the ducts, which run from the central unit through to other rooms, and which give the system its name.

Ducted systems have a very low internal profile – all of the works are hidden from sight, and the air flows from discreet vents.

Ducted air-conditioning systems are optimal for larger homes or commercial premises with single or multiple rooms. However, because ducted systems are built into the structure, it may be difficult or impossible to retro-fit them.

Ducted AC FAQ

Is Ducted AC better than a split system?

Ducted and split systems serve different purposes. While the purpose of a split system is to cool a single room, or in the case of a multi-split up to 5 rooms, Ducted air-conditioning can cool an entire home. Ducted may be a better option if you’re looking to air-condition a larger space, but because it is integrated into the building, usually needs to be included at the time the home is constructed.

Bulkhead Air-Conditioning Systems

Learn more

Bulkhead air-conditioning systems are a type of air-conditioner that is installed in a wall or bulkhead. Unlike split systems, where the internal unit is visible, the internal bulkhead unit is tucked away out of sight, emitting cool air into the room via a low-profile grille. Like ducted systems, bulkhead systems are integrated into the structure and their installation generally need to be done as part of a construction or renovation process.

Learn more

Cassette Air Conditioners

Cassette air conditioners are another unobtrusive type of AC solution, distinguished by the fact that they are located in the ceiling.

This fact enables conditioned air to be generated from a central distribution point (unlike split systems, for example, which are mounted on one wall), achieving immediate 360 degree distribution of cool air around the room. Cassette air conditioners are better suited to light-commercial or commercial applications for this reason.

Learn more

Air-Conditioner Features

It’s Hot. Let’s Make It Cool.

AC Quotes & Enquiries

Air-Conditioners come in a variety of styles and capabilities. In this brief article, we look at important features that you should be aware of when reviewing a new air-conditioner for your home or business. This will help you make an informed decision and select an air-conditioner that is suitable for your needs. For all air-conditioning sales, installation, repair and servicing on the northern Sunshine Coast, please contact our team. We provide a complete air-conditioner service, in addition to being approved warranty-repairers for major brands.

Energy Efficiency

Choosing efficient appliances is important for the environment and the back pocket. Depending on the climate zone, heating and/or cooling can account for 20% to 50% of energy used in Australian homes. [energy.gov.au] That’s quite a lot when you think about tit. The best way to understand the energy-efficiency of an air-conditioner is to evaluate the mandatory energy rating label on the box:

These labels give immediate insight into the energy-rating of the appliance, and can help you to evaluate the running costs of your air-conditioner in conjunction with the other features it offers.

More Stars on the Label Means:

More Energy Efficiency
Lower Power Bills
Less Damage to the Environment

Refrigerant Type: R-32

The type of refrigerant used by an air-conditioner has an impact on both operational efficiency and environmental impact. Air-conditioners heat or cool the room by transferring heat via refrigerant. R-32 is a refrigerant used increasingly as the best commercially available option. It can reduce electricity consumption by approximately 10%, and has a lower environmental impact. [daikin.com]

Learn More:

What’s R-32? (Daikin)

Cooling & Reverse Cycle

An important choice to make up front is whether your air-conditioner will be cooling, or reverse-cycle. Here is the difference:

Cooling: This means that the air-conditioner only cools the air.

Reverse Cycle: The air-conditioner can cool and heat the air.

If you’re on the Sunshine Coast and thinking, “I only need to keep cool in summer!”, then please don’t forget that our winters can be pretty chilly. A reverse-cycle air-conditioner is a great way to combat the winter cold, as well as keep you warm in summer.

What’s the Difference Between a Split System & a Reverse-Cycle Air-Conditioner?

These are 2 totally different things. A split system is a type of air-conditioner configuration, and gets its name from the fact that it is made up of two separate components, one inside and one outside. You can read more about split systems here. Reverse-cycle, on the other hand, refers to an air-conditioner mode where the internal air is heated, not cooled. In other words, you can have a split system air-conditioner with a reverse cycle feature.

Air Quality

Air quality is an important, but often overlooked issue, which can be addressed by the right type of air-conditioner. Most known for their abilities to cool or heat rooms, some air-conditioners can also help address air quality, and lessen the impact of related issues including respiratory conditions, allergic episodes, headaches, skin issues, strange smells, and mould growth. To best understand the air-quality capabilities of your prospective air-conditioner, check for options such as filtration, mould-proof operation, auto-cleaning, odour decomposition and bacteria deactivation. Air-conditioners can do much more than simply heat and cool your rooms!

Learn More:

How to keep your indoor air quality at its best (Fujitsu)

Connectivity

Appliances are getting smarter and air-conditioners are no exception. While the standard has always been operation via remote control, some AC units can now be operated by app on your phone or via smart home devices such as Google Home. In addition to this type of capability for new units, some brands also sell retro-fitting kits which enables this type of technology to be applied to older units. An example of this is the Fujitsu anywAIR technology Wi-Fi device.

Noise Reduction

Coming to terms with the noise levels associated with air-conditioners is important. Features such as Quiet Operation (Daikin) or Low Noise Mode (Fujitsu) can produce whisper-quiet AC under certain operational parameters. It’s important to understand that air-conditioner noise may be internal or external, depending on the type of air-conditioning unit you’re running and how it is being used. You need to consider both – you may not be able to hear your outdoor unit, but your neighbours may!

Learn More:

The noise factor: why it’s important both indoors and out

Humidity Reduction: Dry Mode

If you lived on the Sunshine Coast during the first 4 months of 2022, you may be familiar with the problems associated with mould. Following a particularly rainy period during this time, mould growth was abundant as a result of humidity and a lack of sunshine. Dry mode is one option which is useful for battling mould, and comes as standard on many modern air-conditioners. This mode de-humidifies the room, and makes conditions less favourable for mould growth. In addition, it can be used as a more economical cooling method on days when high humidity is causing discomfort.

Learn More:

Tips for Reducing, Managing & Removing Mould

Rust Prevention

Rust prevention is an important consideration on the Sunshine Coast due to proximity to the ocean. For outdoor electrical units such as air-conditioning condensers, the elements can take a toll. Corrosion-resistance treatments are included in some air-conditioner models. We can also apply a rust-prevention application which will help protect your air-conditioner from the elements. Talk to our team to find out more information.

Learn More:

Rust Prevention Applications

Tips For Reducing, Managing & Removing Mould

With an incredibly rainy introduction to 2022, Sunshine Coast residents are coming to terms with an unwanted household visitor: MOULD. After all the rain, mould is appearing in homes everywhere. If it’s in your home.. rest assured, you’re not alone!

The presence of mould is caused by wet, dampness, lack of ventilation and humidity [SRC: ABC] making these rainy days (and weeks and months!) the perfect opportunity for mould to proliferate. In this article, we take a look at the problems caused by mould and different ways that you can tackle it, to get back to living mould-free!

What are the Health Issues with Mould?

People can be exposed to mould through inhalation, skin contact or ingestion. The health effects include:

irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and skin
allergic reaction in people with a mould allergy (e.g. asthma flare-up or hay fever symptoms).
hypersensitivity pneumonitis—a rare lung disease where the lungs become inflamed due to an allergic reaction to certain inhaled substances (e.g. organic dust, fungus, mould or chemicals)
infection.

Most healthy people will not experience health problems from contact with mould, however the risk increases for people with:

asthma, allergies or other respiratory conditions may be more sensitive to mould
a health condition or undergoing medical treatment that lowers their immunity are more at risk of infection (e.g. cancer and its treatment, organ transplant recipients).

[SRC: worksafeqld.gov.au]

Ensuring Your Air-Conditioner Is Mould-Free

Air-conditioners circulate the air you breathe, so it’s essential to ensure that they are clean and free of mould. This is particularly important on the Sunshine Coast, where high humidity, especially after rain, sees an increase in AC usage. We provide a professional clean & service for your split system or ducted air-conditioner. We recommend this service twice-yearly to ensure your system is running optimally.

Using Dry Mode to Reduce Humidity

Some clever ducted and split system air conditioning units offer the latest in cutting edge technology, which means they not only provide efficient cooling and heating for your home, but can humidify, dehumidify, ventilate and purify the air! [SRC: Daikin]

Make sure when you’re assessing air-conditioner solutions on the Sunshine Coast, you take this into account, ensuring your AC has this capability. Learn more about new air-conditioners here.

General Mould Prevention

Mould is caused by wet, dampness, lack of ventilation and humidity. The trick to preventing mould, or inhibiting its growth, is to prevent these conditions from arising at home. This is easier said than done when it rains incessantly for 5 months; however utilising your air-conditioner or dehumidifier during these times can also be helpful. Here are some handy tips to prevent or inhibit mould at home:

Allow sunlight into your home, as much as possible.
Allow air to circulate. Open doors and windows.
Where does your clothes dryer vent it’s air? If possible, arrange for it to vent outside, as this air can be very humid and if vented inside, can create mould-growing conditions.
Clean wet areas of the home regularly.
Wipe away any moisture you find, and try to keep the inside of the home dry.
Dry and air damp clothes and shoes outside if possible.
Clean carpets and rugs regularly using a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Filter) vacuum cleaner.
Clean evaporation trays in air-coolers, dehumidifiers and refrigerators regularly.
Don’t run evaporative air cooling systems with water during high humidity (over 65%). If the air feels humid, run the air cooler without water and open the windows.
llow space between furniture and walls so air can flow, particularly wardrobes.
Don’t stack boxes or other items against outside walls, especially walls that don’t get a lot of sun.
Place absorbent beads in affected rooms to soak up extra moisture. You can buy these at the supermarket.

[SRC: ABC]

Steps to removing mould

Obtain personal protective equipment, including half-face disposable respirators with P1 or P2 filters, to avoid inhaling mould spores when cleaning. You’ll find these at hardware stores.
Place drop sheets on the floor and exclude people from the affected area if they’re not performing the work.
Get 2 buckets: 1 for cleaning solution and 1 for clean water.
Wipe the area clean with a microfibre cloth and cleaning solution. Don’t put dirty cloths back in the solution; rinse them in the clean water to avoid cross-contamination.
After cleaning the area with the solution, wipe the surface with a damp cloth. Don’t use the same cloth you used with the solution.
Wipe the surface dry with a clean cloth.

[SRC: qld.gov.au]

Making Mould Remover

Here are some tips for removing mould from qld.gov.au. They’re particularly useful because they include different options, so depending on what you have in the kitchen, you may not need to go shopping to get started.

Remove mould using a suitable mould remover, such as:

a solution of 3 parts vinegar and 2 parts water
a solution of 70% methylated spirits and 30% water
a solution of tea tree oil and water
commercial products from the supermarket. Follow the safety instructions to protect your eyes and skin.

Mould Removal Tips

Why shouldn’t I clean mould with a dry brush or broom?

This could release spores into the air, which may cause adverse health affects and spread mould to other areas. [SRC: qld.gov.au]

Why shouldn’t I clean mould with bleach?

Using bleach is not recommended because it’s not an effective mould killer. However, bleach will help to eliminate other disease-causing organisms that may be present because of contaminated floodwaters. [SRC: qld.gov.au]

Why should I keep changing cloths when cleaning mould?

Always use a different cloth with each process and throw them away after, or the mould spores will spread and mould will reappear. [SRC: qld.gov.au]

Why should I wear personal protective equipment when cleaning mould?

Our immune system does not like mould. It is not meant to be breathed into our lungs. [SRC: qld.gov.au]

Air Conditioning Cleaning, Servicing & Maintenance

It’s Hot. Let’s Make It Cool.

AC Quotes & Enquiries

A proactive approach to cleaning and servicing your air-conditioner is essential to extend its life and ensure it is operational when you need it most – in the heat of summer! We offer a complete range of AC cleaning and maintenance services in Noosa and surrounding suburbs, for split and ducted systems. Contact our team to organise a service today:

Split System Clean

From $130 +GST

Full system check

Flush & check drain

Spray coils with cleaning spray

Hand clean cover & clean filters

Outdoor unit check

Book Online

Split System Deep Clean

From $200 +GST

Full system check

Degrease fan barrel & evaporator coils

Flush & inspect pan drain

Spray clean coils & fan barrel

Cleaning agent application

Flush & inspect pan drain

Remove odour, mould, contaminants and bacteria

Clean cover & filters

Outdoor unit check

Book Online

Ducted System Clean

From $160 +GST

Full system check

Filter Removed & Cleaned

Registers checked for airflow & cleaned

Indoor unit checked for leaks and drain flushed

Outdoor unit check & contaminant removal

Book Online

Rust Prevention Application | From $150 + GST

A major challenge for outdoor AC condenser units on the Sunshine Coast is the onset of rust (due to exposure and proximity to the ocean) and small creatures like Geckos. Our rust prevention application helps your system last longer, with benefits including:

Insulates P.C. boards, protecting them from moisture, vermin and corrosion.
Non-conductive with minimal affect efficiency or heat transfer.
UV, heat and cold resistant which reduces yellowing and cracking.
Extends the serviceability of the unit components.
Contains salt inhibitors, repels water and has great chemical resistance.
Reduces mould developing on the components.

Book Online

Benefits of AC Servicing

Regular servicing for an air-conditioner is essential for a variety of reasons. These include:

Lifestyle: By regularly servicing your AC unit, you help ensure it runs optimally and keeps you cool on hot days.
Air Quality: Keeping your air-conditioner clean helps to ensure you’re circulating clean air. Read more about this topic here.
More Uptime: Avoid problems with your machine with a proactive approach to servicing.
Save Money: A clean and well-maintained unit will run more efficiently, costing less to operate.
Longevity: Machines last longer when they’re looked after. Get the most out of your system with regular servicing.

Air-Conditioner Service FAQ

How often should I get my air-conditioner cleaned?

We recommend regular cleaning. The more often you use your air-conditioner, the more often it should be cleaned. Apart from ensuring the system is running properly, regular cleaning can minimise the health issues associated with an unclean machine – for example, regular cleaning will prevent a build-up of mould, which is detrimental to have circulating in your home.

When is the best time to organise an AC service or clean?

The best time is between April and September. This is for two reasons:

1. Summer is an exceptionally busy time for electrical providers on the Sunshine Coast, and it may be difficult to book your clean or service during summer months.
2. It’s better to get ready for summer, rather than to wait for your unit to fail when you need it most – when it’s scorching hot.

My Air-Conditioner isn’t Working – What Should I Do?

If your air-conditioner isn’t working, it may need repair, or replacement! Learn more abut AC repair options here, or contact our team. We will assess the situation and organise a solution for you.

Is the Rust Prevention Application Harmful to Geckos?

No. The anti-rust application creates a physical barrier which protects components from exposure to moisture, salt and creatures.

It’s Hot. Let’s Make It Cool.

AC Quotes & Enquiries

Cooling Solutions

If you have lived through a summer on the Sunshine Coast, you will know that things heat up considerably – high temperatures and humidity can rapidly make life unbearable. Integrating a cooling solution such as air-conditioning or ceiling fans into your home or office is an essential step to take control over your internal environment and make those hot days more liveable.

Whether you’re building a new home or upgrading, talk to our team for a cooling solution geared to suit your lifestyle. We service Noosa and surrounding suburbs, and deliver a quality service and ongoing support that you can count on.

Choosing a Cooling Solution For Your Home or Business

Air-conditioning and ceiling fans are the most popular electrical cooling solutions that we offer. When you talk to our team, we will help you determine the best option for your premises and cooling goals. Learn more about these solutions here, or contact our team to find out more about cooling solutions with Noosa Electric Co.

Air Conditioning

Air-conditioning is a cooling solution perfectly calibrated to life on the Sunshine Coast. AC gives you total control over the internal environment, enabling you to set up and manage your air temperature and quality just as you like it.

Noosa Electric Co. provides a complete air-conditioning service. We can assist with all aspects including:

Supply
Installation
Cleaning & Maintenance
Repair

We work with both split and ducted systems for new and existing homes and businesses. These systems can be customised to suit the size and number of rooms you need to cool. As an approved warranty repair provider for most major brands, we ensure a compliant installation and provide post-sales support you can count on.

Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are a fantastic option to take the edge off the heat and can be used as a standalone solution or integrated with an air-conditioner. By establishing an internal breeze, ceiling fans will certainly make your rooms more pleasant and bearable in the heat of summer.

Book Ceiling Fan Supply, Installation or Repair Online

Cooling Solutions FAQ

Do you supply and install air-conditioners and fans?

We supply and install air-conditioners and fans. If you have sourced your AC or fan from another supplier, contact our team and we will discuss the best way forward.

What brands do you recommend?

We work with all major brands, and will suggest a solution using an appropriate brand for your premises and your budget. Contact our team to learn more.

My AC / ceiling fan is broken. Can you repair it?

Noosa Electric Co. provides a complete AC service including supply, installation, maintenance and repair. We also offer an electrical appliance repair service. We’ll evaluate your situation and advise the best way forward.

When is the best time to organise a fan or air-conditioner?

Don’t wait until the last minute. Summer on the Sunshine Coast is hot and busy. It’s better to organise your electrical installations and servicing before the heat sets in.

How’s Your IAQ?

While it may be invisible, indoor air quality (IAQ) has a big impact on our health and comfort at home. It’s easy to assume the air we breathe is pretty clean – but the truth is, many of us aren’t even aware of the minute microbes and ultrafine particles that we live with every day. Along with more obvious things like cigarette smoke, dust mites and pet allergens, one of the greatest factors to influence indoor air quality is mould. Apart from being unsightly, mould releases microscopic spores into the air we breathe, which can wreak havoc on our health, especially for those prone to allergies.

Banishing mould can be a tricky task, so we’ve gathered our top tips for detecting and eradicating this nasty stuff and improving your indoor air quality for good.

Tip 1. Assess your ventilation situation
Mould absolutely loves damp environments, so it tends to grow in places where moisture can’t easily escape (like your bathroom, kitchen or laundry). In many cases, you can resolve the issue by improving ventilation through windows or vents.

If natural ventilation in a living or sleeping area is an issue, a good air conditioner or dehumidifier can do the trick, which can draw air from the outside and circulate it inside, reducing the humidity in your home without affecting the temperature.

Tip 2. Don’t let water hang around
Be vigilant, take care to dry your kitchen and bathroom areas thoroughly after you’ve finished using them (mould can grow in as little as 24 hours!). Keeping bathroom exhaust fans running while you’re showering (and for 30 minutes after) is a good idea too.

Tip 3. Take advantage of mould-fighting products
If you’re building a new home or renovating, you’ll be happy to hear there are some mould-resistant products you can use to prevent mould: things like mould-resistant plasterboard and mould-resistant insulation. For existing homes, it can be worth looking into waterproofing paints for problem spots around the house.

Tip 4. Keep an eye on indoor plants
While indoor plants can help improve your indoor air quality by filtering pollutants, they can also provide the perfect breeding ground for mould. To stop this from happening, don’t let excess water stagnate in drip trays when you water. A good tip is adding a dash of natural antifungal substance that can hinder mould growth in the plant soil.

Tip 5. Don’t ‘set and forget’ your air conditioner or dehumidifier.
Regularly cleaning or replacing filters as required is a simple way to keep your unit running at its best, and sticking to a regular servicing schedule can also make a world of difference to your unit’s ability to keep your air clean.

Now you’re armed with these mould-fighting secrets, why not sort those trouble spots and enjoy fresher air every day? And if you decide it’s time for an air conditioning or dehumidifying unit, all Daikin’s split system air conditioners have in-built air purifiers and are the only air conditioners approved by the National Asthma Council Australia’ Sensitive Choice Program. For more information, just give Daikin’s Specialist Dealer a call.

SRC: Daikin