Learning how to clean a window unit air conditioner is essential to keep it in top shape. When dirt and dust accumulated in your AC, it might affect the cooling power of your appliance. That’s why regular cleaning is necessary to extend the life and performance of your air conditioner unit.
Regular maintenance also includes proper storage when the unit is not in use. This article will give you some tips on how to clean your AC regularly, monthly, and seasonally. We will also touch a few deep cleaning methods to ensure that your AC is well-maintained and always in good working condition.
Cleaning Your AC Unit
The first step on how to clean a window unit air conditioner is to first for any signs of mold or mildew. Mildew has a musty smell, which is prominent when turning on the AC. If you think your AC accumulated mildew, prepare a bottle of hydrogen peroxide with a 3% solution. There are many spray-ready solutions you can purchase in your local stores. Never used bleach since they can damage some parts of your AC. Here’s how to clean a window unit air conditioner:
- Turn the AC off. Locate the intake area and outflow area of your AV on the front panel of the unit. Spray them with the hydrogen peroxide solution. Try to wear a mask or eye goggles to prevent some mist from getting into your eyes or inhaling it. Once the mist settles, the musty smell will go away. Wash your hands thoroughly after spraying as well.
- Allow the solution to settle and dry. Some people leave the solution to dry overnight. It ensures that all of the liquid is completely dry before turning it on the next day.
- Make sure all parts are covered. If you want to make sure that everything is clean, you can also remove the filter and spray the solution further inside. Prepare some old towels to catch any drips for any excess solution. This is also a good time to give your filter a good clean.
How to Clean the AC Filter
Your AC filter is the easiest to clean since you can remove it conveniently. Thus, allotting a few minutes every week to clean your filter can help prevent bacteria and mildew buildup. Here’s how to do it:
- Turn your AC off ad remove the front panel to access the filter. You may need to unscrew the front panel, depending on your AC’s make and model. Locate your filter and carefully pull it out or slide it down from the slot.
- Use running water to get rid of all dirt and debris trapped in the filter. You can also use a vacuum if the filter is already covered with dirt and grime. Although you clean your filter regularly, it’s still best to replace it every three months.
- Tap the filter a few times to get rid of excess water. You can also use a clean towel to pat it dry. Let it sit for a few minutes and once dry completely, place it back in your AC unit.
- Once you see any signs of wearing, replace the filter immediately. Check your user manual for the right filter model and purchase a new one in your local home improvement store. You can also contact the manufacturer to have it replaced.
Deep Cleaning your AC
Sometimes, even when you clean the filter regularly, dirt and mildew still get their way in your unit’s interior parts. That is why how to clean a window unit air conditioner thoroughly is also essential knowledge if you want to save up on professional cleaning fees. Here’s how to deep clean your unit:
- Turn off the AC and remove the front panel. Remove all screws to reveal the interior unit of the AC. Place the casing, including all the screws, in a safe place to avoid missing parts.
- Use a soft, bristle brush to get rid of any dirt stuck in the aluminum fins. There are special brushes available intended for cleaning window units. You can purchase one in a home improvement store nearest you. Also, try to wear gloves since the fins are a bit sharp.
- Use condensed air to blow away dust from the motor, the fins, and around the coils. You can find a canister of condensed air in your local home improvement store as well. In case you can’t find one, a small brush will also do the trick.
- Vacuum any remaining debris from the tray and the base of your AC. Then, spray them with a regular household cleaner and leave to dry. Make sure to empty and clean the drain pan before assembling back the unit.
- When winter season comes, uninstall your AC and keep it secured in your storage area. Protect it with a plastic sheet to avoid dust from accumulating in your AC. If you still have the original box, you can also reuse it and seal it with tape for use next time.
Conclusion
Cleaning your window AC regularly will help prevent accumulated dirt and grime from affecting your unit’s performance. Too much debris trapped in your AC can cause the appliance to be faulty and to malfunction. That is why learning how to clean a window unit air conditioner can help you keep your AC in good shape even without a professional cleaner for help. Here’s how to learn more about cleaning appliances.