Can’t live without air conditioning during the summer months? Air conditioning has become the king of the house during the three months of summer. But do you clean your air conditioner regularly? If you don’t know how to clean your AC, we will tell you everything you need to know.
Did you know that the air inside the house is up to five times more polluted than the air outside? Let’s not be alarmed! This is simply to tell you that air conditioners need constant maintenance. Therefore, make sure to clean them way before the air conditioning season starts. These air conditioners, during the months of inactivity, accumulate a tremendous amount of dirt. And one common mistake is using them without prior cleaning. Are you wondering how to clean all the mess? Keep reading!
But First, Clean the Indoor Unit (Remote Controller, Cover and Front Panel).
Because of the dangers of working around electricity and moving parts of the air conditioner, it’s essential to disconnect the unit’s power completely.
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On the outdoor condenser or compressor, look for an outdoor shut-off box near the system. Also, turn off the power at the switch box inside.
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Use a dry cloth to clean the indoor unit and remote controller.
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If the indoor unit is filthy, use a cloth moistened with water to clean it, without adding chemicals.
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Carefully remove the indoor unit’s front panel for washing using a soft, dry cloth.
Watch out!
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Do not use sandpaper or polishers to clean the unit.
Step 1 – Remove Filter
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Open the front panel slightly to access the filters;
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Hold the hook of the air filter and lift it slightly to separate it from the filter holder.
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Open the lid and remove the filter carefully.
Step 2 – Cleaning the Activated Carbon Filter and Hepa Filters
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Check for activated carbon filter (left side) or HEPA filter (right side). Only some models have these filters and remove them before washing the nylon filters;
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The way to remove and install these filters is different between models;
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They cannot be washed with water: clean them with a vacuum cleaner or replace them;
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Clean the activated carbon and HEPA filters once a month and replace them with new ones every 4 to 5 months.
Watch out!
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Do not use water! Clean only with a vacuum cleaner.
Step 3 – Clean the Nylon Filters
Vacuum, wash with warm or cold water and, if necessary, use mild soap.
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Dry the pieces well in the shade;
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Use a vacuum cleaner to clean the exchanger.
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Rinse the filter with clean water.
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Use a cloth to blot wet areas.
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Replace the filter and back cover.
Watch out!
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Do not use sandpaper or polishers to clean the unit.
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Do not use chemicals;
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Do not wash with water over 40 ° C, it can cause damage to filters and plastic parts
Step 4 – Reassemble
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Don’t turn on the air conditioner without filters;
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Check the heat exchange coils and the plate openings of the outdoor unit periodically;
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If clogged with soot or dirt, the heat exchanger and panel openings can be steam cleaned using a regular or dedicated vacuum cleaner. This process must be carried out by a qualified professional;
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The most efficient cleaning of the condenser is carried out using a specific detergent or a spray. It is necessary to open the condenser, removing the dirty parts to facilitate cleaning. The detergent’s application is made with a brush’s help; then, it must be rinsed with water. This process must also be carried out by a qualified professional;
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Clean up dust, leaves and debris;
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If there’s any rust spot on the outdoor unit, apply some synthetic enamel paint to prevent it from spreading;
Note: Clogged or dirty coils reduce the system’s performance efficiency, resulting in higher operating costs and power consumption.