A split system air conditioner is one of the most popular types of AC and cooling solutions for homes and offices, consisting of an indoor unit that distributes cool air and an outdoor unit that releases heat.
Compact, efficient, and quiet, split systems are designed to maintain comfortable indoor spaces throughout the year. However, to keep them performing at their best, regular cleaning of the split system air conditioner is essential.
Learning how to clean split system air conditioner isn’t just about appearance—it improves energy efficiency, enhances indoor air quality, and helps extend the lifespan of your unit. Tasks such as cleaning split system filters or performing routine split system maintenance ensure your air conditioner doesn’t have to work harder than necessary, saving you money on energy bills.
That said, not every job should be a DIY task. While you can easily handle basic steps, more complex issues—such as refrigerant leaks, electrical faults, or heavy mould growth—should always be left to professionals. Being able to decide when to DIY and when to call an expert guarantees a stable, efficient AC system and a safe one as well.
➜ Related: How Often Does Air Conditioner Need Servicing
Essential Safety Tips for Split System Cleaning
Before you begin split system cleaning, safety should always be your top priority. Whether you’re learning how to clean split system air conditioner for the first time or doing routine split system maintenance, taking precautions protects both you and your unit.
Turn off the power supply
Always switch off the electricity before cleaning any split system air conditioner. This prevents accidents and ensures you can safely handle the unit while performing split system air conditioning cleaning tasks.
Wear Gloves and a Mask
When cleaning split system air conditioners, you often deal with dust, dirt, and sometimes mould or allergens. Wearing gloves protects your hands from harsh cleaners and sharp fins, while a mask helps prevent breathing in fine particles during split system aircon cleaning.
Check Ladder Stability
Many indoor AC units are installed high on the wall, making the use of a ladder necessary. Ensure your ladder is secure before starting to clean the split system air conditioner. A steady ladder helps you safely access the unit for steps like removing filters or inspecting the split AC cleaning drain pipe.
What You’ll Need to Clean a Split System Air Conditioner
Before starting split system cleaning, gather the right tools. Having everything prepared makes the process of how to clean split system air conditioner smoother and more efficient. These items are essential:
- Soft brush or microfibre cloth: Ideal for dusting coils, vents, and other components of a split-system air conditioner during cleaning, without causing damage.
- Vacuum with brush attachment: A gentle but effective way to remove built-up dust when you clean split system air conditioners.
- Mild detergent or AC coil cleaner: Essential for breaking down grime and mould. When learning how to clean split system air conditioner filters or coils, use a non-corrosive cleaner for safe results.
- Spray bottle of water: Helps rinse detergent from filters and coils when cleaning split-system air conditioners.
- Fin comb (optional): Handy for straightening bent fins on the outdoor unit. If you’re looking for a way to clean a split system air conditioner’s outdoor unit, this tool can help restore proper airflow.
- Bucket, towel, and protective sheet: Maintain your workspace clean to prevent water damage during servicing of air conditioner parts.
Having these tools at hand will make cleaning split-system air conditioners simpler and safer, helping you stay consistent with split-system air conditioner maintenance and avoid costly repairs later on.
How to Clean Split System Air Conditioner: Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
When it comes to how to clean split system air conditioner, following a structured process makes the job safer and more effective. Here’s a step-by-step guide for both the indoor and outdoor units.
Cleaning the Indoor Unit
- Turn off and open the front panel: Always switch off the power before you begin split system air conditioner cleaning. Carefully remove the front panel to access the filters and interior parts.
- Remove and wash the filters: Remove the filters and wash them in mild soapy water. This is one of the most crucial aspects of cleaning split system filters and maintaining optimal airflow. After rinsing, allow them to dry completely before re-installing. Learning how to clean split system air conditioner filters regularly helps prevent dust buildup and improve air quality.
- Wipe down coils and fins: Use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner in gentle mode to clear dust and dirt. For deeper split system air con cleaning, apply a mild coil cleaner. This will help your AC system perform efficiently and reduce pressure on the motor.
- Clean the drain pan and pipe: Clogged drain lines can cause leaks. Check the pan and pipe for blockages, then flush with water and mild detergent. If needed, follow guides on how to clean split AC drain pipe to ensure proper drainage.
Cleaning the Outdoor Unit
- Remove debris: Remove leaves, dust and cobwebs surrounding the outdoor unit. Regular split system maintenance ensures uninterrupted airflow.
- Vacuum or hose down the fins: Carefully vacuum or hose the fins to remove dirt. Be gentle to avoid bending the fins during split air conditioner cleaning.
- Straighten bent fins: Use a fin comb if necessary. Straight fins help maintain efficient cooling and are an important part of proper split system air conditioning cleaning.
- Check airflow clearance: Ensure you have sufficient space around the unit, with at least 60 – 90 cm of clearance, to allow for adequate airflow. Keeping the area clear is essential when learning how to clean split system air conditioner’s outdoor unit.
Using these steps, it becomes easy cleaning split system air conditioners. Whether you’re tackling split aircon cleaning indoors or maintaining the outdoor unit, consistent care boosts efficiency, prevents breakdowns, and extends the lifespan of your system.
How Often Should You Clean Your Split System AC?
Regular split system maintenance is crucial for keeping your unit running efficiently and ensuring clean, healthy air. Knowing how often to clean a split system air conditioner can prevent costly repairs and improve performance. Here’s a simple guide:
Filters: Every 2–4 Weeks
Filters collect the most dust and allergens. Learning how to clean split system filters every few weeks (depending on usage) ensures good airflow and prevents the system from overworking. Skipping cleaning split system filters can lead to higher energy bills and poor air quality.
➜ If you need help, a guide about how often to clean aircon filter might help.
Coils and Drain: Every 3–6 Months
Dirt, mould, and blockages can build up over time. Performing a light split system air conditioning cleaning every few months — especially flushing the drain line or following the guides on how to clean a split AC drain pipe — helps prevent leaks and odours. Regular cleaning of split system air conditioner components, such as coils, also improves cooling efficiency.
Professional Servicing: Once a Year
Even if you regularly clean your split system air conditioner yourself, scheduling annual servicing is essential. A professional aircon technician in Perth can do a deeper split air conditioner cleaning, check AC refrigerant levels, and ensure everything is running safely.
Signs Your Split System Needs Cleaning
Even with regular split system maintenance, your unit may show warning signs when it’s due for a thorough cleaning. Recognising these early can save you from bigger issues and costly repairs. Here are the most common signs it’s time for split system air conditioner cleaning:
- Weak airflow – If air isn’t flowing strongly or your aircon is not blowing cold air, your filters may be clogged. This is a clear indicator that you need to focus on cleaning split system filters.
- Musty or unpleasant odour – Air conditioners can sometimes make you sick. That’s because of the mould or bacteria that grows inside the indoor unit and drain pan. When this happens, a detailed split air conditioning cleaning is needed to restore fresh, clean air.
- Higher energy bills – A dirty unit works harder to cool your home. Regular cleaning of split system air conditioners helps maintain efficient energy use and reduces unnecessary costs.
- Strange noises from the unit – Grinding, rattling, or buzzing sounds may mean dirt or blockages are interfering with normal operation. A proper servicing of a split system air conditioner may be required.
- Water leaking indoors – A clogged drain line is often the cause of water leaks. Knowing how to clean a split AC drain pipe is essential; otherwise, you may need professional help with split air conditioner cleaning if the problem persists.
When to Book Professional Split System Air Conditioner Maintenance
While many aspects of split system cleaning can be handled at home, there are times when professional help is the safest and most effective choice. If you notice any of the following, it’s best to arrange expert servicing for your split system air conditioner support:
Heavy Mould Growth
If you notice mould spreading inside your indoor unit, air vents, or drain pan, basic cleaning of a split system air conditioner will not be enough. Mould in the air conditioner can quickly contaminate your home’s air, leading to unpleasant odours and potential health issues. Regular split system maintenance can reduce the risk, but once mould takes hold, it requires more than simple filter washing or surface cleaning.
In these cases, a technician is the best option. Professionals have the right tools and cleaning solutions to perform a thorough deep cleaning of split air conditioners, safely eliminating mould and preventing its return. This ensures your indoor air stays clean and healthy, while also protecting your system from long-term damage caused by fungal growth.
Persistent Water Leakage
It’s common for water to leak from a clogged drain line, and sometimes the issue can be resolved by learning how to clean a split AC drain pipe at home. This involves flushing out dirt, debris, or mould that may be blocking the flow of water. A quick DIY clean can solve minor issues and keep your unit working properly.
However, if water continues to drip indoors after cleaning, it typically indicates a more serious issue. In this case, you’ll need professional split system air con cleaning and inspection. A qualified technician can determine whether the issue is caused by a damaged drain pan, blocked pipes, or another underlying fault, and repair it before it leads to structural damage to your walls, ceilings, or flooring.
Refrigerant Issues or Electrical Faults
Low refrigerant levels or electrical wiring faults are not jobs for a DIY approach. Attempting these repairs yourself can be hazardous and may even cause further damage to the unit. Unlike cleaning split system filters or coils, these tasks require technical knowledge and professional-grade equipment.
The safest solution is to book professional servicing. A licensed technician can check refrigerant pressure, repair leaks, and carry out safe split system air conditioning cleaning while inspecting the electrical components. Regular expert care ensures your AC system runs efficiently, prevents major breakdowns, and extends the lifespan of your split system.
When DIY Isn’t Enough: Call a Professional
Regularly cleaning a split system air conditioner offers numerous benefits. From improved energy efficiency and better indoor air quality to lower running costs, consistent split system maintenance ensures your unit runs smoothly year-round. Something as simple as learning how to clean split system filters every few weeks can make a big difference in performance and comfort.
By scheduling regular cleaning for split system air conditioners and inspecting both the indoor and outdoor units, you can prevent common issues such as weak airflow, water leaks, or musty odours. A little care now goes a long way toward extending the lifespan of your system.
Of course, there are times when professional servicing is the best option. Annual servicing of split system air conditioner units not only provides peace of mind but also addresses deeper issues, such as mould growth, refrigerant levels, and electrical faults. Global Cool Air can help with more than just split system air con cleaning—our team also services ducted and evaporative systems to keep your entire home comfortable and efficient.
Ready to give your air conditioning the care it deserves? Contact Global Cool Air today to book your expert split system air conditioner maintenance and enjoy fresher, cleaner, and more reliable cooling.
