We’ve all been there. You turn on the cooler during a 35°C Melbourne afternoon, expecting a crisp breeze, but instead, you get a damp, musty smell that feels like a swamp.
At HR Heating and Cooling, we see this every summer. If your evaporative cooling isn't performing, it’s usually not "broken"—it’s just struggling under the weight of a long season. Here is why your cooler is failing you right when you need it most:

Evaporative coolers rely on pads to chill the air. Because these pads are constantly saturated with water, they can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mould—especially during a humid Melbourne February.
While a quick rinse helps with surface dust, it doesn't stop deep-seated growth. Most cooling pads have a functional lifespan of 6 to 8 years. After this point, they lose their ability to hold water and start to break down, potentially blowing microscopic mould spores directly into your living room and bedrooms.
⦁ The Smell Test: If you notice an "earthy" or sour smell, your pads are likely past their prime.
⦁ The Health Factor: For families with asthma or allergies, 8-year-old pads are a major trigger.
⦁ The Solution: At this age, a professional replacement is the only way to ensure your air is hygienic and significantly colder.
If your unit hasn’t been serviced, water can sit in the base of the unit (the reservoir), growing algae and slime. Not only does this stink, but it affects the efficiency of the pump. We provide a full tank flush and bacterial treatment to ensure the water cycling through your system is fresh and clean.
This is the #1 mistake we see in Melbourne homes. Unlike refrigerated aircon, evaporative cooling needs doors or windows open. If you don't provide an "exit" for the air, moisture builds up, the house starts to feel sticky, and the cooling effect stops completely.
Pro Tip: Open the windows on the "leeward" side (the side away from the wind) to create a vacuum effect that pulls the hot air out and the cool air in.
Don't melt this weekend. If your cooler is blowing lukewarm air, smelling "off," or making a racket, give the HR Heating and Cooling team a buzz. Whether it's a deep service or a full pad replacement, we’ll get your home back to its icy best.
Our team provides expert evaporative cooling service in Melbourne to ensure your system is professionally maintained and ready for the peak of summer.
Call us on 0484044651 or Contact us for summer special!