How To Service A Window Ac Unit

How to Clean a Window Air-conditioning Unit to Keep It Running Smoothly All Summer Long

Remove grit, droppings, and mildew from your air conditioner in just a few uncomplicated steps.

Throughout the warm summer months, your air conditioning keeps you lot and your loved ones absurd and comfy. Merely if it's been a while since y'all cleaned your window air conditioner, it's fourth dimension to give your AC a little TLC. Consistently cleaning a window AC unit not but allows it to operate efficiently and utilize less energy, but it also prevents unwanted mold and mildew, which tin have adverse health effects, from forming and growing within of your unit.

With a few common household materials and this easy stride-by-pace guide, yous can care for your window AC and make sure it'due south ready and able to keep you cool during the hottest months of the year and beyond.

removing filter from window air conditioner unit

Credit: Courtesy of Walmart

How to Clean a Window Air-conditioning Unit of measurement

Don't allow dust and debris build up in your window air conditioner. Follow our stride-by-step instructions for cleaning an Air conditioning unit of measurement to keep it performing its best.

What Yous'll Need

Screwdriver (optional)
Mitt vacuum or vacuum with hand attachment
Bucket of warm water
Soap or detergent
Bristle castor
Toothbrush
Can of compressed air
Cleaning rag or textile
Spray bottle
Hydrogen peroxide (three%)

Step 1: Make clean the air filter.

Earlier cleaning your air conditioner, ensure that it is unplugged from the ability source. Next, locate and remove the filter on your AC unit of measurement. Some window units feature filters that only pull out; others might kickoff crave the removal of the front cover with a screwdriver. Look at the manufacturer's manual for your model to determine the best method for removing your AC unit of measurement'south filter.

Later removing the filter, use a manus vacuum to excerpt as much dust and debris as possible. Next, catch a bucket with soapy water and a bristle castor and wash the filter in the sudsy h2o, gently brushing information technology every bit needed until clean. Air-dry the filter completely before re-installing it.

Step 2: Make clean air-conditioner coils and fins.

Locate the evaporator coils and fins in your unit, which convert hot air into absurd air, and clean them using a toothbrush or other soft-bristle brush. Be gentle and handle the coils and fins with care and then as non to curve or harm them. Spray the coils and fins with compressed air to remove any remaining dirt and grit.

Step 3: Make clean the exterior and grill.

Clean the grill of your air conditioner with a damp cloth or rag. If the grime is substantial, remove the grill co-ordinate to the manufacturer's instructions and submerge it in warm soapy water, using a brush or rag to clean between the grill'south gaps. Dry the grill completely earlier reinstalling information technology.

Side by side, wipe down the top and sides of the window AC unit with a damp cloth. If your AC has a drain and/or baste tray, be sure to make clean those as well by emptying them and wiping them clean. Let dry completely before returning to the Ac unit.

Step 4: Preclude mildew and reassemble.

Using hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle, care for the exterior areas of the air conditioner where air flows through to protect against mold and mildew. Allow enough time for all parts to dry completely before putting them back in place. At present, all that'southward left to do is kicking back, relax, and savor your make clean Air conditioning unit of measurement as information technology blows fresh, cool air into your home.

How Oftentimes Should I Make clean My Window Air Conditioner?

While at that place are several components of your window Air conditioning unit that require attention on a regular footing, the most disquisitional piece to make clean routinely is the filter. It is recommended that you lot wash the removable filter once a month. Depending on how frequently y'all operate your AC, your window Ac filter might also somewhen need to be replaced. Many units have a lite that comes on to indicate when it is time to replace the filter, so y'all'll know exactly when to swap it out for a new one.

During months when your window AC unit is not in use, you tin can cull to remove and store it or invest in a window cover for off-season protection. Both options option volition lessen the amount of dirt and droppings that makes its style into and onto the unit.