Why Annual Evaporative Aircon Servicing Matters: The Complete Perth Guide
Evaporative air conditioning is a popular cooling solution in Perth due to its energy efficiency, affordability, and suitability for dry, hot climates. But like any system that combines water, air, and electrical components, regular servicing is essential to keep it running effectively, hygienically, and economically.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
How evaporative air conditioners work
What’s involved in a standard service
Why annual servicing is critical for performance and safety
Signs your system needs attention
The risks of neglecting maintenance
Why Jarrah Group is trusted for evaporative aircon service in Perth and the Perth Hills
How Does an Evaporative Air Conditioner Work?
Evaporative coolers draw in outside air through damp filter pads. As the air passes over the wet pads, water evaporates, reducing the air temperature. A fan then pushes this cool air through ducts and into your home.
Key components include:
Water pump
Filter pads
Fan motor and blades
Float valve
Drain system
Controller (internal thermostat/control panel)
Because the system relies on water, filters, and moving parts, it’s prone to issues like calcium build-up, bacterial growth, and mechanical wear. This is why evaporative air conditioning maintenance isn’t optional—it’s a must.
How Often Should I Service My Evaporative Air Conditioner?
Every 12 months—ideally before the summer heat sets in.
Annual servicing ensures:
Clean, healthy airflow
Maximum cooling efficiency
Longer system lifespan
Reduced energy and water use
Prevention of unexpected breakdowns
Many homeowners mistakenly believe that because evap units have fewer electrical components than split systems, they require less maintenance. This isn’t true. The water-based system encourages mould, scale, and mineral build-up, especially in Perth’s hard water areas like Midland, Kalamunda, Mundaring, and Glen Forrest.
What’s Included in an Annual Service?
At Jarrah Group, a full evaporative aircon service in Perth includes:
Filter Pad Inspection & Cleaning
Removes dust, debris, and mould
Ensures even water distribution and cooling
Pads replaced if damaged or clogged
Water Tank Flush
Drains dirty water and sludge from base
Eliminates bacteria and odours
Pump & Motor Check
Ensures reliable startup and performance
Identifies signs of mechanical wear
Float Valve & Inlet Test
Prevents overflow or underfilling
Adjusts water levels for optimal efficiency
Drain Valve Inspection
Ensures proper flushing post-use
Avoids stagnant water sitting inside over winter
Fan Blades & Housing Clean
Reduces vibration
Improves airflow and noise levels
Duct Inspection (Optional)
Checks for leaks or insulation damage
Can be added to service if airflow is reduced
Controller Test & Programming
Sets summer cooling programs
Ensures controller communicates correctly with roof unit
Why Servicing Matters: Health, Comfort, and Costs
1. Air Quality & Health
Because evaporative systems circulate air through water, they are susceptible to:
Mould and mildew growth
Bacteria build-up in stagnant tanks
Dust and allergens from clogged filter pads
For households with kids, elderly family members, or asthma sufferers, this can pose a serious health risk. Annual servicing eliminates these hazards.
2. Cooling Efficiency
Even minor issues—like mineral deposits on the filter pads or a slow pump—can reduce your cooling output by 20–40%. A clean, serviced system cools faster, runs quieter, and keeps your whole home comfortable.
3. Water and Power Waste
An unmaintained evap system:
Uses more water due to malfunctioning float valves
Uses more power due to strain on the motor and pump
Costs more to run across the summer
4. Extend System Lifespan
Annual servicing:
Reduces wear and tear
Identifies problems early
Prevents corrosion, pump failure, and electrical issues
Properly maintained, an evaporative aircon system can last 15+ years.
Signs Your Evap Aircon Needs Servicing
Call a Perth air conditioning technician if you notice:
Weak airflow from vents
Strange smells when operating
Gurgling or grinding noises
Water leaking from the ceiling or roof
High power bills despite mild weather
System won’t start or shuts down suddenly
These are all red flags—some are fixable with a standard service, others may require repairs. Either way, acting early saves money and discomfort.
The Risk of Skipping Servicing
Neglecting maintenance can result in:
Blocked or damaged pads = poor cooling and odour
Pump or motor failure = costly replacement
Tank sludge = bacterial and respiratory risks
Overflows and leaks = ceiling or roof damage
Sudden failure during a 40°C+ Perth day
In some homes we service in Darlington, Greenmount, or Glen Forrest, evap units have been left untouched for years. In nearly all cases, these units show signs of corrosion, scale damage, or inefficiency—and usually require full refurb or replacement.
What Brands Do We Service?
Jarrah Group services all major brands including:
Breezair
Braemar
Coolair
Bonaire
Convair
Climate Wizard (commercial units)
Perth Hills Expertise You Can Trust
Based in Glen Forrest, Jarrah Group understands the unique needs of homes in the Perth Hills:
Leaf debris and dust from trees
Wildlife accessing roof cavities
High UV exposure to roof units
Sloped or high-pitched roof access requirements
Many Perth-wide companies don’t want to travel up the hill or lack experience servicing older homes with ducted evap systems. We specialise in it.
FAQs About Evaporative Aircon Maintenance
Q: Can I clean the filter pads myself?
A: You can rinse them gently, but be careful not to damage or dislodge them. Annual deep cleans are best handled by a technician.
Q: How long does a service take?
A: Around 60–90 minutes for most residential units. Larger or commercial systems may take longer.
Q: When’s the best time to book a service?
A: September to November, before the peak summer rush. Don’t wait until it’s 38°C to find out your system won’t start.
Book Your Annual Service With Jarrah Group
Jarrah Group offers fixed-price annual servicing for evaporative air conditioning in Perth and Perth Hills homes, including:
Mundaring
Glen Forrest
Greenmount
Mahogany Creek
Sawyers Valley
Helena Valley
Stoneville
Darlington
Hovea
Parkerville
Kalamunda
Midland
We’re locals, we know the area, and we take pride in looking after our neighbours’ cooling systems with clean, respectful service.
