Heating and cooling in AlbanyMild summers, so heating does more of the work.

What that means for your system

Heating comes first. The ACT Government's example energy label shows heating capacity at 7 degrees and at 2 degrees outside, and with July nights averaging 9.1, the 7 degree rating is closer to what you'll ask of a reverse cycle system here. Read the red heating stars on the label as well as the blue.

Cooling needs are modest. With summer afternoons in the low 20s and that evening sea breeze, a split in the living area may be all the cooling you need. At 55% January humidity, evaporative has less to offer than inland, and CHOICE doesn't recommend it for humid or wet climates.

Wind and salt decide the outdoor unit's spot. Put it where it has air around it but some shelter from the strong southerlies, keep it out of direct spray near the water, and ask about coastal coil protection. After what Alby did to Albany's roofs, it's also fair to ask how a bracket or roof frame is fixed.

Damp winters and servicing

July afternoons average 68% humidity. Mitsubishi Electric says dirt inside a unit can cause odours and encourage mould, and it recommends a professional service once a year. For a system that heats through a damp Albany winter, that's the schedule we'd keep. Our air conditioning service page explains what's included.

Getting the work done

WA's rules apply in Albany as everywhere in the state: an ARC licence for the refrigerant, and a licensed electrical contractor, whose licence number starts with EC, for the switchboard and fixed wiring. Gas heaters need a gasfitter with a Class G permit.

Tell us your job and postcode. Licence-checked installers around Albany who specialise in it can see the job, and your contact details go only to the one who takes it. If no one around Albany takes it within 48 hours, installers elsewhere in Western Australia may see it too.