3 July 2026 · 5 min read
The recommended interval
Manufacturers such as Daikin, Fujitsu and Mitsubishi Electric recommend a professional service every 12 months for residential systems. Homes near the coast, homes with pets, and systems that run most of the year should be serviced every six months.
Filters are different again: rinse them yourself every four to eight weeks during heavy use.
What a proper service includes
Filter clean, indoor coil and barrel fan clean, drain line flush and treatment, refrigerant pressure and superheat check, electrical connection torque and current draw check, outdoor coil wash, and a full operating test in both heating and cooling.
You should receive a written report with the readings. If a service takes fifteen minutes and produces no numbers, it was a filter clean.
Why it matters for your warranty
Most manufacturer warranties require documented annual servicing. A compressor failure at year four with no service history is the most common warranty rejection we see.
Servicing also catches the cheap problems early: a blocked drain that would have flooded a ceiling, or a failing capacitor that would have taken out a fan motor.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an air conditioner service cost in Sydney?
A standard split system service is typically $150 to $220. Ducted systems are usually $250 to $400 depending on the number of zones and roof access.
What are the signs my system needs servicing now?
Weak airflow, a musty smell when it starts, water dripping inside, ice on the pipework, longer run times to reach temperature, or a rising power bill with no change in use.
Can I service it myself?
You can wash the filters and keep the outdoor unit clear. Anything involving refrigerant or electrical work legally requires an ARC-licensed technician.