If you live in Melbourne, you know how much relief an evaporative cooler brings during those hot summer days. It’s fresh, natural, and energy-efficient, perfect for our climate. But like any home appliance, it can stop performing at its best over time. You might notice the air isn’t as cool as it used to be, or strange smells and noises start creeping in.
The good news? These issues can often be fixed with the right servicing. The tricky part is knowing when to book a service before small problems turn into big, expensive ones. Let’s go through the signs to watch out for and why regular maintenance is so important.
1. The Air Isn’t Cool Enough
One of the first signs that something is wrong is when your cooler doesn’t seem to be, well… cooling. You might find the air feels more like a gentle breeze rather than a refreshing blast.
This could be due to:
- Clogged cooling pads
- Low water levels
- A pump that isn’t working properly
If you keep running it like this, you’ll be using electricity without getting much benefit. A professional evaporative cooling servicing Melbourne can clean the system, replace worn pads, and make sure water is flowing correctly, so your cooler works the way it should.
2. Strange Smells Coming from the Unit
Fresh, clean air is one of the main reasons people choose evaporative cooling. So if there’s a musty or unpleasant smell, that’s a clear sign something’s off.
Smells often come from:
- Bacteria or mould building up on wet pads
- Stale water sitting in the tank
- Dust and dirt in the ducts
Not only is this unpleasant, but it can also be unhealthy. A service will flush the system, clean or replace pads, and disinfect the water tank so your air is fresh again.
3. The Airflow Has Dropped
Even if the air temperature feels fine, you might notice it’s not blowing as strongly as before. Weak airflow can be caused by:
- Worn-out fan belts
- Motor issues
- Blocked vents
These problems are often quick to fix, but can get worse if ignored. Regular checks will keep the fan and motor running smoothly, so the air keeps flowing at full strength.
4. Unusual Noises
Evaporative coolers aren’t completely silent, but they shouldn’t sound like a washing machine full of loose coins either. Grinding, rattling, or squeaking noises often mean:
- Loose or broken parts
- Worn bearings
- Problems with the fan motor
It’s best to turn the system off and book a service straight away. Catching mechanical issues early can save you from costly repairs or a full replacement later.
5. Water Leaks or Excess Moisture
Evaporative coolers use water to operate, so some moisture is normal. But if you see water pooling around the unit or dripping in places it shouldn’t, it’s time for a closer look.
Leaks can be caused by:
- Cracked water lines
- Faulty valves
- Blocked drainage
Apart from wasting water, leaks can cause damage to your home or the cooler itself. A qualified technician can track down the source and repair it quickly.
6. Higher Running Costs
One of the best things about evaporative cooling is its low running cost compared to other systems. But if your electricity or water bills start creeping up without a change in usage, that’s a red flag. A poorly maintained unit works harder to deliver the same result, which means it uses more power and water. Servicing helps keep it running efficiently, so you don’t pay more than you should.
7. It’s Been Over a Year Since Your Last Service
Even if you haven’t noticed any issues, it’s smart to get your evaporative cooler serviced at least once a year, ideally before summer begins.
A yearly service includes:
- Cleaning the water tank and pads
- Checking and tightening parts
- Testing the pump, motor, and fan
- Inspecting for leaks or blockages
This preventative care can extend the life of your unit and give you peace of mind for the hotter months ahead.
Why Regular Servicing Matters
Think of your evaporative cooler like a car, it might still run without regular maintenance, but the risk of breakdown is much higher. Dust, dirt, and mineral build-up are common in Melbourne’s climate, and they can affect performance if left unchecked.
Regular servicing:
- Keeps the air clean and healthy
- Improves cooling performance
- Reduces energy and water waste
- Extends the life of the system
It’s a small investment that can save you a lot in the long run.
Conclusion
If your evaporative cooler is blowing warm air, smelling strange, making noises, or costing you more to run, it’s time to call in the professionals. Even if you don’t notice anything wrong, a yearly check-up is the best way to make sure your home stays cool all summer without unexpected breakdowns.
For reliable and friendly evaporative cooling servicing Melbourne homeowners can count on, book a visit with WPG Plumbing. Their expert team can get your system running at its best so you can enjoy fresh, cool air all season long. Book your servicing online. Stay cool, save on energy, and enjoy fresh air all summer long.