Window air conditioners work hard to keep your home cool and comfortable during summer. Over time, however, they can become dirty and clogged with dust, dirt, and other debris. This can reduce their efficiency and cause them to work harder than necessary to cool your home.
To keep your AC unit working efficiently, then it is essential to clean it regularly. Cleaning the unit every month will help remove any build-up of dirt and debris that can hinder its performance. Additionally, check the filters monthly and replace them as needed – this will also help improve airflow and prevent the unit from working too hard.
Some people do AC unit cleaning every few months, while others do it more frequently. However often you decide to clean it; the process is relatively simple.
Simply follow these seven simple steps, and your unit will look and work like new in no time.
What Are the Steps to Clean Window AC Unit
Before you start cleaning, ensure you have gathered all the materials to help clean your window AC unit. Below are the things you need for cleaning:
- 2 Spray bottles (1 for cleaning solution & 1 for hydrogen peroxide)
- AC manual
- Vacuum
- Face mask
- Garden hose
- Screwdriver
- Fin comb
- Rubber gloves
- Protective eyewear
- Cleaning cloth/rags
- Commercial coil cleaner
- Mild detergent
- 3% hydrogen peroxide
Now that you’re ready let us start cleaning!
Step 1. Gather Cleaning Materials and Unplug Your AC Unit
To clean your window air conditioner unit, you will need to gather a few supplies, turn off your circuit breaker, and unplug your unit. Once you have done this, you can proceed with cleaning your unit.
You don’t have to remove your window air conditioner unit to clean it. However, if it’s difficult to access and clean the outside part of the unit, remove the unit to clean the components at the back.
Step 2. Clean the Face Panel
To remove the face panel from your window air conditioner, unscrew the screws or clips at the bottom of the panel. Then, lift the panel off of the air conditioner.
After you remove the cover from the window AC unit, spray it with warm water and a mild detergent. This will help remove any dirt or grime that may have built up on the unit. Let the mixture sit on the unit for a few minutes, then wipe it down with a microfiber cloth. This will help keep your window AC unit clean and in good working condition.
To clean the cover, start by using a brush to scrub any tough stains. If the cover is really dirty, you can take it outside and spray it with a garden hose. Doing this once a week can help prevent dirt buildup. Once you’ve cleaned the cover, set it aside to dry.
Step 3. Clean the AC Filter
Remove the air filters and check if they are covered in dust. Next, use a vacuum to clear the debris. Then wash it with warm soapy water. For more thorough cleaning, take it outside and hose it down. Allow it to dry before putting it back. Remember that you should clean your window air conditioner filters every two weeks and replace them every three to four months.
Depending on the model, the filter on your air conditioner may need to be removed for cleaning or replacement. Some models have the filter installed inside the face panel, while others have it located behind the panel.
Remove the air filters and check if they are covered in dust. Next, use a vacuum to clear the debris. Then wash it with warm soapy water. For more thorough cleaning, take it outside and hose it down. Allow it to dry before putting it back.
Step 4. Vacuum the Interior
The next step is to vacuum the interior, which includes the evaporator, fan, blower, drain pan, and condenser. These parts of your air conditioner can get dusty and dirty over time, so it’s essential to clean them regularly. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris from these parts of your AC unit.
Step 5. Wipe the Fans
The two fans in a window AC unit are the blower near the evaporator and the bladed fan near the compressor. These fans can be cleaned with the same coil cleaning solution. To clean the fans, pour the solution on a cloth and scrub the dirt off of the fans. Rinse the fans with a hose when you are finished.
Step 6. Clean AC Coils and Fins
AC coils are a vital part of keeping your home cool. They are made of small aluminum fins that help to remove heat from your home. Over time, the fins can become covered in dirt and debris, which can become a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
You can use a commercial coil cleaner to clean your window air conditioner coils or make your own. If you choose to make your own, simply mix a mild detergent with warm water in a spray bottle. Then, spray the cleaner on the coils and leave it for 15-20 minutes. Finally, use a soft cloth to wipe the coils clean.
Be extra careful when cleaning the coils as they are delicate and can easily bend. Plus, they are sharp so wear hand gloves when handling them.
Step 7. Unclog the Drain System
Moisture is collected in a drain pan and is removed through a drain hole every time you use the AC unit. If the drain hole becomes clogged, the water will build up in the pan and eventually overflow.
To unclog the drain system, remove any accumulated dirt and debris. Then tilt the unit to drain any excess water. If the hole is plugged, remove the cover to help pour the water out. Then finally, use a bottle brush or damp cloth to clean the inside.
Step 8. Finish Off With Hydrogen Peroxide
Finally, spray the inside and outside of your unit with a hydrogen peroxide solution to clean it and kill any germs. Wear gloves and protective eyewear when using hydrogen peroxide. Give enough time for the unit parts to dry out before reassembling the parts thoroughly. If not, then you will probably encounter problems with your AC unit.
Conclusion
Cleaning your air conditioner is essential to maintaining a comfortable and healthy home. Following these simple steps ensures that your unit will provide years of cool, refreshing air. But if you don’t have time to clean it, it is still best to have it serviced by a professional to ensure that your AC unit is clean and running smoothly.
At HVAC Swami, we offer 24-hour air conditioning service that can help keep your unit in top shape. We also offer regular maintenance services to help prevent problems before they start. Let us keep your home cool and comfortable all year long! Contact us today to get started!
