How to access split system for servicing?

I have a split system which requires servicing that had been installed on top of a stairways, 4.3m height from surface. Have gotten multiple maintainers to quote for service but been hit with access issues each and every time.

It has gone to the stage where I am looking to install a new unit at a more accessible location, only to be told that where it is at is the most functional location. Running out of ideas on how to survive summer!
Any advise would be appreciated.

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Comments

EricL

Hello @ag95

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your split air conditioner.

I propose a two-step approach. First is to hire a builder to create a ledge or deck that will go across your TV wall and the wall where the head unit is. The technician can then bring their ladder lean it beside the TV wall and step onto the deck in order to service the head unit.

However, my question is in regards to your aircon, is the condenser, is it on your roof or on the side of the house? That unit must be accessible as well in order to have a successful service of the entire air con unit.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag, @pete_brig and @AlanM52, for their recommendations.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

Dave-1

Morning @ag95

Nows thats a looooong way away to service 🙂 and yeah its a dilemma.

What is on the far oppisite wall? Was my first thought. That way the cool is still at that height so hopefully it would still work the same as it is now, just a longer run to the outside condenser.

I do like @EricL's suggestion tho. I would take it one step further and design and install solid points to mount a ladder for servicing.

Everything from a solid bracket between the fireplace wall and the wall the air con is on.

Then long planks to be laid from the steps out to the beam/bracket. This is what the base of the legs of the ladder rest on. It would be a cheaper option Id hope, only problem is storage of the planks until needed next year.

01 19-12-2025 Air con over steps b.JPG

The red is a angled bracket or a timber beam that is solidly screwed into the stud wall or concrete depending. It stays there always and is a permanant shelf. I would suggest to have some 20mm holes drilled vertically into it for locking the planks into place. The 20mm Pins drop through the end of the plank and into the timber shelf/angle. This is to stop them splaying out.

02 19-12-2025 Air con over stepsb.JPG

The other end of the planks rest on the floor while in use. (use an old bathmat so it dosnt get scratched).

The planks can eithe be painters timber planks or aluminium planks.

Dave

AlanM52

Hi @ag95,

I suggest you 'play safe' and hire scaffolding (one off cost) to cover all the service access issues which may require two people up there.

Cheers

R4addZ

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/60694#Comment_60694

Hi @ag95

What is the nature of the construction of the wall the TV is mounted on as if it is capable of carrying the load, you could bolt a suitable support to the wall under the aircon and then use suitable planks to go across from the top of the wall to the support giving a safe working platform and it would only need a ladder on the TV side of the wall to get up to it.

Nailbag

Hi @ag95

It’s not a difficult solution as I service splits quite regularly this time of year accessing via a telescopic ladder similar to this one for the last 8yrs or so. Super stable and compact. They are available in different heights and single sided options. Just shop around for the best price. I’ve always been surprised Bunnings have never ranged one as everyone that sees mine buys one online.

Unless the split needs mechanical servicing it takes about 30min to clean all the filters and vents yourself.

Nailbag

R4addZ

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/60708#Comment_60708

Hi @ag95

You can also get ladder leg extensions so that you can set the ladder sideways on the stairs.

https://www.bunnings.com.au/gorilla-ladder-leveller-single-leg_p0860851?region_id=112443&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21122993677&gbraid=0AAAAADtbEB8M7zTEO8SJrrzDIE2HcfHtx&gclid=Cj0KCQiAjJTKBhCjARIsAIMC448zzusCJi3VV0GCd1x3X1SLdQ8Fe5ZG0slbVDGx6lQLo60QldKPv3AaAiYyEALw_wcB

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