Braemar evaporative air conditioners are widely used throughout Perth and have built a reputation for providing reliable cooling during Western Australia’s hot summers.
Like all evaporative cooling systems, however, Braemar units require regular maintenance and can develop faults over time.
Many of the most common Braemar problems are relatively straightforward to diagnose when identified early.
Understanding these issues can help homeowners maintain cooling performance and avoid costly breakdowns during summer.
How Braemar Evaporative Coolers Work
Braemar systems cool outside air by passing it through wet filter pads.
As the air moves through the pads:
• Heat is absorbed
• Air temperature drops
• Fresh cooled air enters the home
To operate efficiently, the system relies on:
• Clean filter pads
• Proper water flow
• Functional pumps
• Healthy fan motors
• Effective water management
When one of these components develops a fault, cooling performance often suffers.
Braemar Not Cooling Properly
Poor cooling performance is one of the most common complaints from Braemar owners.
Possible causes include:
• Dirty filter pads
• Pump failures
• Water flow problems
• Faulty solenoid valves
• Lack of servicing
In many cases, routine maintenance can restore cooling efficiency before major repairs become necessary.
Dirty Filter Pads
Braemar filter pads are designed to clip into the side of the unit.
Many models use a lever-style release mechanism to help remove the pads during servicing.
Over time, the pads collect:
• Dirt
• Dust
• Scale deposits
• Mineral buildup
• Organic debris
As contamination increases, airflow becomes restricted and cooling performance declines.
Replacing worn filter pads can often significantly improve comfort and efficiency.
Fishy Smells Inside The House
One issue occasionally experienced by Braemar owners is a fishy smell when the cooler operates.
This is often caused by:
• Heavy scale buildup
• Dirty filter pads
• Sludge accumulation
• Poor water quality
• Lack of maintenance
In severe cases, years of mineral deposits and contamination can build up inside the unit.
A thorough cleanout and filter pad replacement are often required to resolve the problem.
Motor Cutting Out
Many Braemar systems use horizontal-mounted AC fan motors.
As these motors age, homeowners may experience:
• Reduced airflow
• Intermittent operation
• Motor overheating
• Sudden shutdowns
• Motor cut-outs
A common cause is an internal winding fault where part of the motor becomes open circuit.
Motor replacement is often required when this occurs.
Water Leaking Into The Ceiling
Water leaks are another issue that can develop in evaporative cooling systems.
Potential causes include:
• Incorrect bleed valve settings
• Faulty bleed valves
• Blocked drains
• Water carryover
• Heavily contaminated filter pads
If water enters ceiling spaces, prompt investigation is important to prevent further damage.
Water Management Problems
Many Braemar systems include water management features such as:
• Drain valves
• Bleed systems
• Water distribution controls
When these systems do not operate correctly, homeowners may experience:
• Increased scale buildup
• Reduced cooling performance
• Shortened filter pad life
• Poor water quality
Regular servicing helps ensure these components continue functioning properly.
Pump Failures
The water pump delivers water from the reservoir to the filter pads.
If the pump fails:
• Cooling performance drops
• Warm air may be blown into the home
• Filter pads may remain dry
Pump faults are commonly discovered during summer startup inspections.
Why Annual Servicing Is Important
Many Braemar problems develop gradually and can often be identified before they cause major breakdowns.
A professional service typically includes:
• Reservoir cleaning
• Drain inspection
• Filter pad assessment
• Pump testing
• Motor testing
• Water management checks
• General system inspection
Regular maintenance helps improve reliability, cooling performance and equipment lifespan.
Book A Braemar Service In Perth
If your Braemar evaporative air conditioner is not cooling properly, has developed unusual smells or is showing signs of a fault, Air Legends can help.
We service and repair Braemar evaporative cooling systems throughout Perth and can diagnose cooling issues, motor faults, water leaks, filter pad problems and water management issues.
Contact Air Legends today to arrange a professional Braemar inspection and service.