Is your Evaporative cooler not coooling? When Melbourne’s temperatures rise, your evaporative cooler should deliver cool, refreshing air throughout your home. But if your system starts blowing hot air, leaking water, or making strange noises, it’s a sign something’s wrong.

At Harley Plumbing, we specialise in evaporative cooling repairs and servicing across Melbourne’s north-east and eastern suburbs. Here’s how to identify common problems, apply quick fixes, and know when to call in a professional.

Why Your Evaporative Cooler Isn’t Cooling Properly

If you’re experiencing issues where your evaporative cooler not cooling, understanding these potential problems can help you troubleshoot effectively. A thorough inspection and maintenance can often resolve issues and restore the cool comfort you expect. Remember, if your evaporative cooler not cooling continues, it may be time to seek professional help.

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1. Dry or Damaged Cooling Pads

If your cooler is blowing warm air, start by checking the cooling pads. They need to stay wet to create cool airflow. Dry or damaged pads usually mean the water pump or distribution system isn’t working correctly.

Quick fix: Remove pads and soak them in a 50/50 vinegar-water mix for one minute, rinse clean, and dry before reinstalling. Replace them yearly for best performance.

2. Faulty Water Pump

Your pump circulates water to the pads — when it fails, no cooling happens. Loud noises or poor water flow are common warning signs.

Quick fix: Clear any debris around the pump inlet. If the pump still doesn’t work, it might be time to replace it (they typically last 5–7 years).

3. Leaking Water or Overflowing Reservoir

A leaking evaporative cooler can waste water and reduce efficiency. Common causes include cracked trays, blocked pipes, or worn float valves.

Quick fix: Check for cracks, tighten fittings, and clean any mineral deposits caused by Melbourne’s hard water.

4. Fan Not Spinning or Making Noise

If the fan hums but doesn’t spin, you may have a seized bearing, worn belt, or faulty capacitor.

Quick fix: Inspect the belt for cracks or slack. Replace worn parts early to prevent further motor damage.

5. Strange Smells or Musty Odours

Mould and dust build-up can cause unpleasant smells and poor air quality.

Quick fix: Clean or replace dirty pads, drain the tank, and rinse the reservoir with mild detergent. Always let everything dry before restarting the unit.

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When to Call a Professional

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If your evaporative cooler still isn’t cooling after cleaning or adjusting, it’s time to call a professional. Licensed technicians can safely test electrical components, replace pumps, and repair leaks.

At Harley Plumbing, our team services all major brands, including Brivis, Bonaire, Breezair, and Coolair, offering fast, affordable repairs across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

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Preventative Maintenance Tips That Actually Work

Keeping your cooler in good condition saves money and extends its lifespan.

• End-of-season cleaning: Run fan-only mode for one hour to dry the system, then drain and clean the tank.
  
• Inspect monthly: Check for leaks and ensure the water level and float valve are functioning properly.
  
• Use soft water: Reduces mineral build-up and extends pump and pad life.
  
• Book a spring service: Prevent problems before the summer rush with a professional tune-up.
  

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Why Choose Harley Plumbing for Evaporative Cooling Repairs

• Over 20 years of experience in Melbourne
  
• Licensed, insured, and qualified technicians
  
• Same-day repairs and servicing
  
• Honest pricing and 5-star rated customer care
  

We repair, service, and maintain all types of evaporative cooling systems to keep your home comfortable all summer long.

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Areas We Service

Harley Plumbing provides expert evaporative cooling repairs and maintenance throughout Melbourne’s north-east and east, including:

• Bundoora
  
• Greensborough
  
• Eltham
  
• Doncaster
  
• Templestowe
  
• Balwyn
  
• Blackburn
  
• Ringwood
  
• Croydon
  
• Vermont
  
• Mitcham
  
• Box Hill
  
• Heidelberg
  
• Rosanna
  

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my evaporative cooler blowing hot air?

Your cooler might be blowing warm air because the cooling pads are dry or the water pump isn’t working. Check that the pads are wet and the water tank is full. If the pump doesn’t circulate water, it may need replacement.

How often should I service my evaporative cooler in Melbourne?

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We recommend one full service every 2 years, ideally in spring before summer starts. Melbourne’s mineral-rich water can cause faster wear and scale build-up, so regular maintenance prevents costly repairs.

Why is my evaporative cooler leaking water?

Leaks often come from cracked trays, loose fittings, or faulty float valves. Cleaning mineral buildup and tightening connections usually helps — if not, the tray or valve may need replacing.

Can I clean my evaporative cooler myself?

You can safely clean pads, drain tanks, and remove debris, but electrical or motor issues should be handled by a qualified technician to avoid safety risks.

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Book Your Evaporative Cooler Service Today

Don’t let your evaporative cooler struggle through another Melbourne summer. Whether it’s blowing hot air, leaking, or just not cooling as it should, Harley Plumbing can help.

Call us today or book online for professional evaporative cooling repairs and servicing across Melbourne’s north-east and eastern suburbs.