Cairns Electrician & Air Conditioning | Simons Electrical and Air
  • Family-owned
  • 30+ years’ experience
  • Licensed & insured

Cairns electricians and air conditioning specialists

Simons Electrical and Air Conditioning keeps homes and businesses across Far North Queensland cool, safe and powered. Split system installs, hydrocleaning and electrical work, done properly by a local family team.

Welcome to Simons Electrical and Air

We are a family-owned electrical and air conditioning business based in Cairns, and for more than 30 years we have kept homes and businesses across Far North Queensland cool, safe and powered. Whether you need a new split system, a deep clean before the wet season or a power point that is playing up, you deal directly with the people who do the work.

Family-ownedLocal people who put their name on every job
30+ yearsExperience in the Cairns climate
Licensed & insuredSafe, compliant work, every time
Cairns & Far North QLDHomes and businesses, big jobs and small

Electrical work? Talk to James

Lighting, power points, repairs, rewiring and emergency call-outs.

Call James: 0407 122 824

Air conditioning? Talk to Michael

Split system installs, hydrocleaning and servicing.

Call Michael: 0474 455 984

Air conditioning and electrical services in Cairns

Every home and business is different, so we tailor the job to what you actually need. Here is what we do most.

Split system installation and replacement

New system or an upgrade, we install it so it runs efficiently and keeps you comfortable through the long Cairns summer.

Split system hydrocleaning

A deep clean that removes dirt, dust and debris. Your unit performs better, lasts longer and the air in your home or workplace is fresher.

Residential electrical

Lighting, power points, circuit repairs and rewiring by licensed electricians who make sure your home is safe and up to standard.

Commercial and emergency electrical

New installations, routine servicing and urgent repairs for businesses and households. No job is too big or too small.

Why Far North Queensland chooses a local family business

We have spent over 30 years working in the Cairns climate, so we know what heat, humidity and wet-season storms do to air conditioners and electrical systems. You deal directly with the people doing the work, and we put our name on every job.

Our team is fully licensed, insured and equipped with the latest tools and knowledge. We are known for reliability, attention to detail and straight talking, and we care about the community we live and work in.

Frequently asked questions

Tap a question to see the answer.

Air conditioning

Do you install split system air conditioners in Cairns?

Yes. We supply and install new split systems and replace old ones for homes and businesses across Cairns and Far North Queensland.

What size split system do I need?

The right size depends on the room’s floor area, ceiling height, how much sun it gets and how many people use it. A unit that is too small struggles on hot days, and one that is too large cycles on and off and wastes power. Tell us about your space and we will recommend the right fit.

How long does a split system installation take?

A straightforward single-room install is often done in a few hours. Longer pipe runs, extra electrical work or multiple units can take longer, and we can talk you through the timing for your property.

How much does a split system installation cost in Cairns?

The cost depends on the size and type of system, the distance between the indoor and outdoor units, the wiring required and how easy the location is to access. Call Michael on 0474 455 984 to talk through your property, your options and the pricing.

What is split system hydrocleaning?

Hydrocleaning is a deep clean that washes dirt, dust and debris out of your split system. It helps the unit run efficiently, extends its life and improves the air you breathe.

How often should I have my air conditioner cleaned in Far North Queensland?

As a general guide, at least once a year. In humid tropical conditions, or if the unit runs most days, more frequent cleaning helps prevent build-up and keeps performance up.

What are the signs my air conditioner needs servicing?

Common signs include weak airflow, a musty smell, unusual noises, water dripping from the indoor unit, ice on the unit and rising power bills. A clean or service can often fix these before they turn into bigger problems.

Why is my air conditioner leaking water?

A leak from the indoor unit is commonly caused by a blocked or poorly draining condensate line, a dirty filter or coil, or restricted airflow. Turn the system off to avoid water damage and have it checked.

What temperature should I set my air conditioner to in a tropical climate?

Many people find 24 to 26 degrees comfortable and efficient in a hot, humid climate. Setting it much lower makes the system work harder and can push up your power bill.

Should I repair or replace an old air conditioner?

Repair usually makes sense when the unit is fairly young and the fault is minor. If it is old, breaking down repeatedly or running poorly, a modern efficient system can work out better over time. We can assess yours and give you an honest opinion.

What is the difference between split system and ducted air conditioning?

A split system has an outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor units that cool individual rooms or zones. Ducted air conditioning uses a central unit that sends cool air through ducts to vents around the home. Split systems suit single rooms or open-plan areas, while ducted systems suit whole-home cooling. Call Michael to talk through what suits your property and budget.

What is an inverter air conditioner and is it worth it?

An inverter air conditioner adjusts its compressor speed to hold the temperature you set, instead of switching fully on and off. It is generally quieter, holds a steadier temperature and uses less power than a fixed-speed unit, which is why most new split systems are inverter models.

Can I install an air conditioner myself?

In Australia, handling refrigerant requires a specific licence, and the electrical connection must be done by a licensed electrician. A DIY or unlicensed install can be unsafe, may void the manufacturer’s warranty and can cause problems with insurance. It is best left to licensed professionals.

How can I lower my air conditioning running costs?

Clean the filters regularly, set the temperature to around 24 to 26 degrees, close doors and windows while it runs and keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves and, where possible, out of direct sun. Switching the system off when nobody is home helps too, and a professional clean and service at least once a year keeps it running efficiently.

How do I clean my air conditioner filters?

Switch the unit off, open the front panel, slide out the filters, rinse them under lukewarm water or vacuum them, let them dry completely and refit them. Doing this every few weeks during heavy use keeps airflow strong. Filters are only part of the picture, so a professional hydroclean is still worth it to clean the coil and drain.

Why is my air conditioner not cooling properly?

Common causes include dirty filters, a blocked or dirty outdoor unit, the wrong mode or temperature setting, a blocked drain or a fault such as low refrigerant. Check the filters and settings first. If it still is not cooling, switch it off and call Michael rather than keep running it, which can damage the system.

Why does my air conditioner smell musty?

A musty smell usually comes from mould and bacteria building up on the coil, filters and drain tray, which is common in humid places like Far North Queensland. Cleaning the filters can help, and a hydroclean removes the build-up that causes the smell.

How long do split system air conditioners last?

With regular cleaning and servicing, a split system often lasts around 10 to 15 years. In humid, coastal conditions, keeping up with maintenance matters even more.

Electrical

Do you handle emergency electrical repairs?

Yes. We handle emergency repairs as well as new installations, rewiring and routine servicing. Call James directly on 0407 122 824 to discuss your situation.

Do I need a licensed electrician in Queensland?

Yes. In Queensland, electrical work must be carried out by a licensed electrician. Using an unlicensed person can create safety risks and problems with insurance and compliance.

What are the warning signs of an electrical problem at home?

Watch for flickering or dimming lights, a switchboard that keeps tripping, warm or discoloured power points, a burning smell or buzzing sounds. If you notice any of these, switch off the affected circuit if it is safe to do so and call a licensed electrician. In an emergency, call 000.

What is a safety switch and do I need one?

A safety switch quickly cuts power when it detects a fault, such as electricity leaking through a person, which helps prevent electric shock. Queensland rules require safety switches on all power and lighting circuits in new homes and in homes being sold or leased, and they are smart protection for any home. Our electricians can check your switchboard and talk you through your options.

How much does an electrician cost in Cairns?

Costs depend on the type of job, how long it takes, the materials needed and how easy the work is to access. A small repair is very different from a rewire or switchboard upgrade. Call James on 0407 122 824, describe the job and we can talk you through the pricing.

What should I do in an electrical emergency?

If there is fire, smoke, sparking or someone has received an electric shock, call 000 first. If it is safe, switch off the power at the switchboard and stay away from the affected area, then call James on 0407 122 824 to arrange a licensed electrician. Never touch exposed wires or wet electrical equipment.

Why does my power keep tripping?

A circuit can trip because of an overload, a faulty appliance, damaged wiring or moisture getting into power points or fittings, which is common in the wet season. Unplug the appliances on that circuit and reset the switch once. If it trips again, stop resetting it and call a licensed electrician to find the cause.

How do I know if my house needs rewiring?

Signs include frequent tripping, flickering lights, a burning smell, warm or discoloured power points and old cloth or rubber-coated wiring. Homes with original wiring that is several decades old are the most likely to need attention. A licensed electrician can inspect your wiring and tell you what is needed.

How do I protect my home from storms and power surges in the wet season?

Consider surge protection for your switchboard and sensitive electronics, and unplug valuable devices during severe storms if it is safe to do so. After flooding or storm damage, do not touch or switch on affected power points, appliances or air conditioners until a licensed electrician has checked them.

Do I need to upgrade my smoke alarms in Queensland?

Most likely. From 1 January 2027, all existing homes in Queensland must have photoelectric smoke alarms that are interconnected, so when one sounds they all sound. Hard-wired alarms must be installed by a licensed electrician, and our electricians can talk you through what your home needs. The Queensland Fire Department website has the full requirements.

Working with us

Are you licensed and insured?

Yes. Our team is fully licensed and insured.

Do you work on both homes and commercial properties?

Yes. We service residential and commercial clients, and no job is too big or too small.

What areas do you service?

We are based in Cairns and serve the surrounding Far North Queensland region.

Do you guarantee your work?

Quality service guaranteed is our promise. We stand behind our work, and if something is not right, contact us and we will work with you to sort it out.

How should I prepare for your visit?

Make sure we can easily reach the air conditioner, outdoor unit or switchboard, put pets somewhere safe and let us know about any problems you have noticed. It helps us get the job done efficiently.

What should I have ready when I call?

It helps to know what the job involves, your suburb, the size of the room for an air conditioning install and the brand and model if you already have a unit. Then call James on 0407 122 824 for electrical work or Michael on 0474 455 984 for air conditioning.

How do I book a job?

Call James on 0407 122 824 for electrical work or Michael on 0474 455 984 for air conditioning, or use the buttons on this page. Tell us what you need and we will take it from there.

Get in touch with Simons Electrical and Air

Ready for a new split system, a clean, or an electrical job? James looks after electrical work and Michael looks after air conditioning. Call whoever suits your job and talk to a real person.

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