Quick Answer
Melbourne's summer (December–February) brings extreme heat, thunderstorms, and peak air con demand.
Priorities: bushfire prep, air con maintenance, storm damage prevention, and weatherstripping checks.
Budget $800 for summer maintenance; most tasks protect your home from fire, flood, and heat damage.
Follow CFA guidelines and our electrical expert's electrical safety tips to keep your home and family safe.
Air Conditioning Maintenance & Efficiency
1. Replace or clean air con filters monthly during peak summer use (January–February). A clogged filter reduces efficiency by 20–30% and increases running costs by $50–100/month. (Est. 10 mins, $10–50 per filter).
2. Clear the outdoor condenser unit: remove leaves, debris, and dead insects using a soft brush. Ensure 60cm clearance on all sides—poor airflow forces the compressor to work harder. (Est. 30 mins, $0).
3. Check internal vents and return-air grilles weekly for dust. Vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth—clogged vents reduce efficiency and air quality. (Est. 10 mins weekly, $0).
4. Test thermostat accuracy in multiple rooms: compare a wall thermometer with thermostat setting. If readings drift >2°C, recalibrate or replace the thermostat. (Est. 10 mins, $0–200 replacement).
5. Listen for unusual noises (hissing, grinding, rattling) during operation—these indicate compressor strain, refrigerant leaks, or mechanical failure. Call a technician immediately. (Est. 5 mins listening, $500–1500 repair if needed).
6. Keep all registers (supply and return) unblocked by furniture, curtains, or closed doors. Restricted airflow forces the system to work 15–20% harder. (Est. 10 mins, $0).
{'type': 'tip', 'text': 'our electrical expert says: set your thermostat to 24–25°C and use ceiling fans or portable fans to circulate air. This reduces air con load by 20% and cuts energy bills by $100–200/month during summer.'}
Bushfire Preparedness (CFA Guidelines)
1. Check your property's CFA bushfire risk level at cfa.vic.gov.au—enter your address to determine your risk category (low, medium, high, severe). (Est. 5 mins, $0).
2. Clear gutters and remove all leaves and debris: gutters act as fuel in fires, causing embers to lodge on the roof. Clear gutters and downpipes completely. (Est. 1–2 hours, $200–400 professional if needed).
3. Trim all tree branches to at least 2m from the house and roof. Remove dead branches, overhanging limbs, and lower branches <2m from the ground. (Est. 3–4 hours, $200–500 professional arborist).
4. Remove dead vegetation, fallen branches, and leaf litter from gardens and under trees. Stack timber away from the house with at least 10m clearance. (Est. 4–6 hours, $0 DIY or $200–400 professional).
5. Create a firebreak zone: mow grass short (5cm or less), remove shrubs within 2m of the house, and keep garden beds clear of dead leaves and mulch clippings. (Est. 2–3 hours, $0 DIY).
6. Inspect your roof for loose or missing tiles, and check flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Seal any gaps >5mm that could allow embers to enter. (Est. 30 mins visual, $500–1000 repairs if needed).
7. Check all external vents for fine mesh screens (1.2mm or smaller) to prevent ember entry. Box gutters, eaves, and subfloor vents are particularly vulnerable. (Est. 30 mins, $200–600 installation if needed).
8. Install or inspect 1.2mm mesh screens on all windows if in a high-risk zone. Ensure screens are in good repair and properly fitted. (Est. 1–2 hours, $500–1500 installation if needed).
{'type': 'warning', 'text': 'Bushfire safety is not optional in Victoria. Non-compliance can invalidate insurance claims and create legal liability if a fire spreads from your property. Follow CFA guidelines strictly.'}
Storm Damage Prevention & Emergency Prep
1. Inspect roof, gutters, and flashing for existing damage from winter storms. Note loose tiles, cracked flashing, or missing sealant—fix before summer storms hit. (Est. 20 mins, $0–1000 repairs).
2. Trim branches hanging over the roof and gutters. Overhanging limbs drop branches during high winds, damaging gutters, fascia, and windows. (Est. 2–3 hours, $200–500 arborist).
3. Secure outdoor items: tie down garden furniture, trampolines, and plants. High winds (common in Melbourne storms) can turn loose items into projectiles. (Est. 1 hour, $20–50 materials).
4. Inspect and secure water tanks, air con units, and external equipment. Ensure all fixings are tight and braced against high winds. (Est. 30 mins, $0–100).
5. Check fencing for loose panels, corroded bolts, or leaning posts. High winds exploit weaknesses and topple fences. Repair or replace damaged sections. (Est. 2–4 hours, $200–800 repairs).
6. Test your home's safety switch (RCD) monthly during summer: flip the test button to confirm the device cuts power in 0.3 seconds. If it doesn't, call an electrician—your house has an electrical hazard. (Est. 5 mins, $0–300 replacement if needed).
7. Create an emergency kit: torch, batteries, first aid supplies, portable radio, bottled water, and emergency contact numbers. Store in an accessible location. (Est. 30 mins, $50–100).
{'type': 'warning', 'text': 'If a storm causes significant damage (roof breach, large tree down, flooding), contact your insurance company within 48 hours and take photos for your claim. Document all damage before cleanup.'}
Weatherstripping & Heat Sealing
1. Inspect weatherstripping on all external doors and windows for cracks, gaps, or hardening. Poor seals waste cooling energy and allow pests to enter. (Est. 15 mins, $0).
2. Replace degraded weatherstripping: remove old tape, clean the surface, and apply new adhesive-backed weatherstripping. Ensure a tight seal without pinching. (Est. 2–3 hours, $30–80 materials).
3. Check and caulk gaps around window frames, door frames, and siding. Use flexible exterior-grade caulk rated for temperature swings. (Est. 2–3 hours, $20–60 materials).
4. Inspect door seals and sweeps at the bottom of entry doors. Gaps here allow cool air to escape and heat to enter. Replace if worn. (Est. 1–2 hours, $20–50 per door).
5. Ensure sliding door tracks are clean and seals are intact. Lubricate tracks with silicone spray (not WD-40, which attracts dust). (Est. 30 mins, $10–20 materials).
6. Check and seal penetrations for pipes, cables, and utility metres. These gaps are often overlooked sources of cool air loss. (Est. 1 hour, $20–50 materials).
{'type': 'tip', 'text': 'Good weatherstripping and sealing can reduce air con costs by 15–20% in summer. The investment ($50–150) pays for itself within 2–3 months of lower energy bills.'}
Pool & Water Feature Maintenance
1. Test water chemistry weekly (pH, chlorine, alkalinity). Imbalanced water causes algae blooms, skin irritation, and equipment damage. (Est. 15 mins, $5–20 per test kit).
2. Clean or backflush pool filters monthly during peak use. Clogged filters reduce circulation and water clarity. (Est. 30 mins–1 hour, $0 DIY or $100–150 professional).
3. Inspect pool pump and motor: listen for unusual noises, check for leaks around seals, and ensure the motor isn't overheating. (Est. 15 mins, $500–1500 repair if needed).
4. Clean pool surfaces: brush walls and floor weekly, skim leaves daily. Algae and debris reduce water quality and safety. (Est. 20 mins daily, $0).
5. Check pool deck for cracks, slippery surfaces, or loose tiles. Repair cracks immediately—they expand in heat and worsen over winter. (Est. 30 mins inspection, $200–1000 repairs if needed).
6. Test pool safety barriers: gates, latches, and fencing should comply with Australian safety standards. A child can drown in seconds. (Est. 15 mins, $200–500 installation if upgrades needed).
{'type': 'tip', 'text': “Keep a pool logbook: record chlorine levels, filter cleaning dates, and any chemical additions. This proves you're maintaining safety standards and helps diagnose water quality issues.”}
Outdoor Furniture & Surface Care
1. Clean outdoor furniture weekly with a soft brush and mild soap. Dust, pollen, and salt (coastal areas) accumulate and degrade finishes. (Est. 20 mins, $5–10 materials).
2. Treat timber furniture: apply water-repellent finish or sealant annually to prevent UV damage and weathering. Spring (September) or summer (January) is ideal. (Est. 3–4 hours, $30–80 materials).
3. Inspect metal furniture for corrosion or rust, especially in coastal Melbourne areas. Treat rust with wire brush and rust-prevention paint. (Est. 1–2 hours, $20–50 materials).
4. Check all bolts, screws, and fasteners are tight. Heat and vibration loosen fixings—retighten monthly. (Est. 15 mins, $0).
5. Pressure-wash patio or decking: use low pressure (<2000 psi) to avoid damage. Power-wash before applying sealant in summer. (Est. 2–3 hours, $0 DIY or $150–300 professional).
6. Assess outdoor shade structures (pergolas, umbrellas, shade sails): ensure all attachments are secure, check for UV damage to fabric, and repair or replace if fading. (Est. 30 mins inspection, $200–1000 repairs if needed).
{'type': 'tip', 'text': 'Use shade cloths (30–50% shade) over north and west-facing windows to reduce heat gain by 20–30% without blocking light. This reduces air con load significantly.'}
Watering Systems & Garden Hydration
1. Test irrigation systems: walk the entire garden and check that all sprinklers reach their intended areas. Adjust nozzles and angles if coverage is poor. (Est. 30 mins, $0).
2. Check for leaks or blockages: look for dry patches, soggy areas, or visible leaks. Blocked nozzles reduce water pressure; clear them. (Est. 30 mins, $0–50 repairs).
3. Program timers for early morning (6–8am): watering during peak heat causes evaporation losses. Morning watering also helps prevent fungal diseases. (Est. 10 mins, $0).
4. Inspect all hoses for cracks, leaks, or UV damage. A pinhole leak wastes 9,500 litres/year. Replace hoses >10 years old. (Est. 20 mins, $30–80 per hose).
5. Check taps and irrigation connections for dripping or leaking. Tighten connections and replace worn washers. (Est. 20 mins, $5–20 materials).
6. Apply mulch (5–8cm) around garden beds and trees to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Top up mulch in January. (Est. 2–3 hours, $50–150 materials).
7. Monitor soil moisture: stick your finger 5cm into soil—if it's dry, water is needed. Most gardens need daily deep watering in peak summer. (Est. 5 mins daily, $0).
{'type': 'warning', 'text': “Check your local council's water restrictions before watering. Melbourne often implements Level 1–3 restrictions during drought periods, limiting garden watering to specific days.”}
Summer Maintenance Cost Breakdown
Typical summer maintenance costs for a Melbourne home:
| Task | DIY Cost | Professional Cost | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air con filter replacement | $10–50 | N/A | Monthly |
| Outdoor condenser cleaning | $0 | N/A | Monthly |
| Bushfire preparedness (tree trim) | $200–500 | $500–1000 | Annually |
| Gutter clearing | $0 | $200–400 | Annually |
| Weatherstripping inspection | $30–80 | $200–400 | Annually |
| Pool/water feature maintenance | $50–100/mo | $100–150/mo | Weekly/monthly |
| Storm damage prevention | $20–50 | $500–1000 | As needed |
| Outdoor surface cleaning | $0–50 | $200–400 | Monthly–quarterly |
Troubleshooting Common Problems
| Problem | Likely Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Air con runs constantly but home stays warm | Clogged filter, low refrigerant, blocked condenser, or thermostat malfunction. | First replace the filter—this solves the issue 80% of the time. If still warm after 30 mins of running, call a technician. Do not ignore constant running—it indicates a problem and wastes energy. |
| Hissing sound from air con unit | Refrigerant leak—the most common air con problem in summer. | Turn off the system and call a licensed technician immediately. Do not attempt to refill refrigerant yourself—this is illegal without proper licensing. A small leak repair costs $300–500; ignoring it leads to compressor failure and $1500+ replacement. |
| Power keeps tripping (safety switch activates) | Electrical overload (too many devices running simultaneously) or a fault in the air con circuit. | Reduce load by turning off non-essential appliances. If tripping persists, call an electrician—there may be a faulty circuit or the air con unit may have an electrical fault. |
| Gutters overflowing despite clearing | Downpipe blockage, incorrect gutter slope, or gutters too small for roof size. | Clear downpipe outlets and inspect slope with a level. If slope is incorrect, engage a guttering specialist. During summer storms, supplementary downpipe extensions can help. |
When to Call a Professional
Summer maintenance requires balancing DIY and professional work. Air con filter changes, weatherstripping, and pool maintenance are straightforward DIY tasks. However, bushfire prep (tree trimming by an arborist), electrical safety (testing safety switch), and refrigerant work require professionals. Book arborists and electricians in November–December before peak summer—January bookings often have 4–6 week waits.
Tips & Gotchas
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace air con filters in summer?
Monthly during peak use (January–February). More frequently if you have pets, live near a dusty road, or have high pollen counts. A clogged filter reduces efficiency by 20–30% and increases running costs by $50–100/month.
What's the difference between CFA 'low risk' and 'high risk' properties?
Low-risk properties are in urban areas with minimal tree cover and good water access. High-risk properties are near bushland, have sparse tree clearing, or are isolated. CFA guidelines are more stringent for high-risk properties (mandatory 2m tree clearance, ember-resistant vents, etc.). Check your address at cfa.vic.gov.au.
Do I need to trim trees 2m from my house in a low-risk area?
Yes—CFA guidelines apply universally. Even low-risk properties need basic bushfire prep. Tree trimming prevents storm damage, reduces gutter blockages, and improves safety regardless of fire risk.
What temperature should I set my air con to save money?
Set to 24–25°C and use ceiling fans or portable fans to circulate cool air. Each degree lower increases energy consumption by 8–10%. Overnight, you can raise the setting to 26–27°C. This approach reduces air con costs by 15–20%.
How much water does a leaking garden tap waste?
A single dripping tap wastes approximately 9,500 litres per year (about 26 litres per day). In Melbourne summer, this is significant—fix dripping taps immediately. Leaking irrigation systems can waste 20,000+ litres/year.
What does a safety switch (RCD) do?
A safety switch (Residual Current Device) cuts power within 0.3 seconds if someone contacts a live conductor, preventing electrocution. Modern homes must have them on all circuits. Test monthly by pressing the test button—the switch should trip immediately. If it doesn't, call an electrician.
Can I water my garden during water restrictions?
Melbourne often implements Level 1–3 water restrictions in summer. Restrictions limit garden watering to specific days/times or ban it entirely. Check your council website for current restrictions. Irrigation systems with timers can be adjusted to comply with restrictions.
Local Resources
- Country Fire Authority (CFA) Bushfire Ready — Check your property's bushfire risk level and access free preparedness guides at cfa.vic.gov.au. Includes step-by-step checklist for home hardening.
- Safe Work Australia – Electrical Safety — Information on electrical safety, RCD testing, and when to hire electricians. Guides available at safeworkaustralia.gov.au.
- Bunnings Warehouse Melbourne — Air con filters, weatherstripping, caulk, garden mulch, and storm-prep materials available at multiple Melbourne locations with Click & Collect.
- Master Builders Association Victoria (MBAV) — Find licensed arborists, electricians, and builders for professional summer prep work. Check credentials at mbav.com.au.
- Melbourne Water – Restrictions & Usage — Current water restrictions, watering day schedules, and efficient irrigation tips at melbournewater.com.au.
