[yummymummycakes]

I have currently been in this property for 3 years.

This summer we had to use the airconditioner on a couple of days and we have noticed a bad smell coming from it.

It almost smells mouldy/damp, if that makes any sense...

Does anyone know who is responsible for cleaning the ducts, etc.

The unit is on the roof and has ceiling ducts in 3 places. We live in Victoria

Many thanks for any advise.

[Bacongirl]

Have you used the air con at previously to this?

They need to be regularily maintained. I suggest calling your RE and finding out who's responsible for the maintenance of the unit.

Our split sometimes smells musty, but I open the cover and give it a good wipe down with bleach and hot water, as it will accumulate some mould on the outside of the filter due to condensation. Especially if it's really humid.

I don't think you can clean the inside of the ducts on a ducted unit, but you should be able to wipe clean or vacuum the vents. There should also be an accessible filter over the intake vent which needs to be cleaned.

[soontobegran]

If it is evapourative it will probably mean the pads need cleaning rather than the ducts.
It is recommended that they are cleaned and serviced every year before summer but at least every second year. Evapourative in businesses, childcare, schools etc should be cleaned 6 monthly.

The mouldy smell is actually a sign that you shouldn't be turning it on until it is cleaned as you are forcing all sorts of spores into the air inside your house.

My DD's agent said the renters were responsible for cleaning it out but it may differ from LL to LL.
We had ours cleaned and serviced last week and it only cost is $135 so it is very reasonable.

[Zesty]

It's usually written in your contract as to who is responsible.