Heatwave in Perth WA – Is My Air Conditioning Working?
When a Perth heatwave hits, your air conditioning system suddenly becomes the most important appliance in the house. If you’ve found yourself asking, “Is my aircon working properly?” or “Can my air conditioning cope with this heat?”, you’re not alone. Every summer across WA, homeowners and businesses discover issues with their systems right when they need them most.
This guide is designed to help you understand how your air conditioning should perform during extreme heat, what warning signs to watch for, and when it’s time to book a service or consider an upgrade. It’s practical, Perth-specific advice to help you stay cool, safe, and comfortable during summer 2026.
How Perth Heatwaves Affect Air Conditioning Systems
Heatwaves in Perth and across WA regularly push temperatures above 40°C. During these conditions, even well-maintained air conditioning systems are working flat out for long periods of time.
High outdoor temperatures place extra strain on compressors, electrical components, and refrigerant systems. If your system is older, incorrectly sized, or poorly maintained, performance can drop quickly during a heatwave.
This is why many people search for terms like aircon WA, heatwave WA, and is my aircon working as soon as the temperature climbs.
Is My Air Conditioning Working Properly in a Heatwave?
During extreme heat, your air conditioning may not feel as cold as it does on milder days. That doesn’t always mean something is wrong.
A properly functioning system in a Perth heatwave should:
- Lower indoor temperatures by around 8–10°C compared to outside
- Run continuously without tripping breakers
- Blow steady, cool air without strange smells or noises
- Maintain a comfortable temperature without constant adjustments
If your system is blowing warm air, switching off unexpectedly, or struggling to cool even one room, those are signs your air conditioning may need attention.
Common Signs Your Aircon Is Struggling
Many air conditioning issues show up gradually, then become obvious during a heatwave. Watch for these warning signs:
- Warm or weak airflow from vents
- Unusual rattling, buzzing, or grinding sounds
- Higher-than-normal power bills
- Rooms cooling unevenly
- System turning off during the hottest part of the day
If you notice any of these issues, it’s best to act early rather than wait for a complete breakdown.
Should I Get My Air Conditioning Serviced Before or During Summer?
Yes. A professional air conditioning service is one of the most effective ways to ensure your system can cope with Perth’s summer heat.
A standard service typically includes:
- Cleaning filters and indoor coils
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Inspecting electrical connections
- Testing system performance under load
- Identifying wear before it causes failure
Regular servicing improves efficiency, reduces breakdown risk, and can extend the life of your air conditioning system. COYCO recommends servicing before peak summer whenever possible.
Learn more about professional servicing on the COYCO air conditioning services page.
Step-by-Step: What You Can Check at Home
Before calling a technician, there are a few simple checks homeowners can safely do:
- Check and clean air filters
- Ensure outdoor units are clear of debris
- Confirm thermostat settings are correct
- Close doors and windows to retain cool air
- Check circuit breakers haven’t tripped
If the system still isn’t performing after these checks, it’s time for professional help.
Do I Need a New Air Conditioning System?
If your air conditioning is more than 10–15 years old, struggles every summer, or requires frequent repairs, replacement may be the smarter option.
Modern air conditioning systems offer:
- Lower running costs
- Improved energy efficiency
- Quieter operation
- Better temperature control during heatwaves
Choosing the right size and system type is critical, especially for WA homes with open-plan layouts or west-facing rooms.
For guidance on safe electrical capacity and upgrades, visit the COYCO electrical services page.
WA-Specific Considerations for Air Conditioning
Homes in Perth and the Peel Region often face unique challenges, including strong afternoon sun, coastal salt exposure, and older electrical infrastructure.
Correct system sizing, quality installation, and compliant electrical connections are essential for safe operation during heatwave WA conditions.
For general energy efficiency guidance, see advice from Energy.gov.au.
FAQs: Air Conditioning in Perth Heatwaves
Is it normal for air conditioning to run all day during a heatwave?
Yes. During extreme heat, systems often run continuously to maintain indoor comfort.
Can a heatwave damage my air conditioner?
Prolonged strain can expose existing faults, especially in older or poorly maintained systems.
Should I turn my aircon off during peak heat?
No. Turning it off can make recovery harder and place more strain when restarted.
Stay Cool With COYCO This Summer
If you’re unsure whether your air conditioning is ready for the next Perth heatwave, COYCO is here to help. From servicing and repairs to new system installations, our experienced local team provides honest advice and reliable solutions.
Don’t wait for your system to fail during the hottest week of summer. Contact COYCO today to book a service or discuss the best air conditioning options for your home or business.
