How Often and How to Clean Your Ducted Air Conditioning?

For homeowners looking for smooth temperature control across the whole house, ducted air conditioning is a perfect option. Its efficiency, discreet design, and whole-home coverage make it ideal for both hot summers and chilly winters. However, to maintain peak performance and indoor air quality, regular cleaning and maintenance of your ducted system are essential.

Let’s explore how often you should clean your ducted air conditioning system, how to clean it effectively, and signs that indicate it’s time for a clean.

Why Cleaning Your Ducted Air Conditioning Matters

Ducted systems circulate air through a series of ducts and vents, often running for hours daily. Over time, dust, pollen, pet hair, mould spores, and other debris can accumulate in the filters, ducts, and internal components. This build-up can:

• Reduce energy efficiency
• Lower indoor air quality
• Worsen allergies and respiratory issues
• Put strain on your system, leading to breakdowns
• Shorten the lifespan of the unit

Proper cleaning not only ensures healthier air in your home but also saves on energy bills and future HVAC repair costs.

How Often Should You Clean a Ducted Air Conditioning System?

The frequency of cleaning depends on several factors, including your environment, household size, and whether you have pets or suffer from allergies. Here’s a general guideline:

Filters

Every 1 to 3 months. Filters trap airborne dust and allergens and get dirty quickly. If you live in a dusty area or have pets, clean or replace them monthly. Otherwise, every 2–3 months should suffice.

Grilles and Vents

Every 3 to 6 months. These are the visible parts of your system and tend to gather surface dust and grime. A quick wipe-down can improve airflow and aesthetics.

Ductwork

Every 2 to 5 years. Unless there is obvious mould, a pest problem, or a substantial accumulation of dust, ducts themselves don’t require routine cleaning. Regular checks are advised, though, particularly if you detect a musty odour or a decrease in airflow. 

Professional Service

Annually. At least once a year, have your system professionally serviced. This includes internal cleaning of coils and fans and refrigerant checks, ensuring everything runs efficiently.

How to Clean Your Ducted Air Conditioning: Step-by-Step

While deep cleaning and servicing should be left to professionals, there are several cleaning tasks homeowners can safely do themselves:

1. Turn Off the Power

Before you start, always switch off your system at the main power source. Safety first.

2. Clean or Replace the Air Filters

• First things first. Bring down the return air grille.
• Open the grille and remove the filter.
• Rinse it carefully with lukewarm water if it can be washed.
• Let it air dry completely before reinstalling.
• Replace it with a fresh filter of the same size if it’s disposable.

Tip: Mark your calendar for your next filter check to stay on schedule.

3. Wipe Down Vents and Grilles

• Use a high-quality microfibre cloth to clean the dust.
• For stubborn grime, a slightly damp cloth with mild detergent can help.
• Dry thoroughly to avoid mould growth.

 4. Inspect Ducts for Dust or Mould

• Shine a torch into the duct openings.
• Look for visible dust, debris, mould patches, or signs of pests.
• If you notice anything concerning, it’s best to call a professional duct cleaner.

 5. Clear Around the Outdoor Unit

• Clear the area surrounding the external unit of leaves, dirt, and trash..
• Keep at least 60 cm of clear space around the unit for airflow.
• Check for damage or signs of wear while you’re at it.

Signs Your Ducted Air Conditioning Needs Cleaning

Even with regular AC maintenance, your system might need attention sooner if you notice:

• Musty or unpleasant odours from vents
• Unexplained allergy symptoms or respiratory irritation
• Uneven airflow in different rooms
• Dust buildup near grilles and vents
• A noticeable drop in cooling or heating performance
• Higher energy bills despite similar usage

If any of these occur, a thorough inspection and clean can restore performance and comfort.

When to Call a Professional

While basic maintenance is manageable at home, professional servicing is essential to keep your system running at its best. A technician can:

• Clean the evaporator and condenser coils
• Remove mould or bacterial growth
• Inspect for leaks and inefficiencies
• Ensure compliance with the manufacturer’s warranty terms

Scheduling an annual professional clean — ideally before summer or winter — ensures you’re ready for peak usage.

Final Thoughts

A well-maintained ducted air conditioning system not only provides year-round comfort but also promotes better air quality and long-term savings. By cleaning your filters regularly, wiping down vents, and scheduling professional servicing, you’re protecting your home environment and extending the life of your investment.

Think of your air conditioning like a car — regular tune-ups keep it running smoothly. So, set a reminder, book that yearly service, and enjoy fresh, clean air all year long.