How To Clean Your Window Air Conditioner

A window air conditioner allows you to cool off individual rooms in your home when you don't have access to a central HVAC system. Window air conditioners are easy to clean and maintain, though this does need to be done on a regular basis. By following these tips for keeping your window air conditioner clean, you can keep it running smoothly and effectively.

Clean and Change the Air Filter

One of the more frequent things you need to do in regards to your window air conditioner is clean the air filter. Try to clean the air filter about once a month or so, and change it every few months. The air filter is accessed by removing the front panel of the air conditioning unit. The front panel should pull right off without needing any tools. Take out the air filter, and remove any debris that is lodged inside of it. Run it under warm water and use mild dish soap to get it clean. Lay it out to dry before putting it back in the unit. When you notice there is buildup in the filter you can't get rid of, you know it is time to change the filter.

Clean the Condenser Oils

The condenser coils inside your window air conditioner help the unit to get cold. If they get clogged with dirt and grime, you will no longer feel that cold air you have become accustomed to. Make a habit of cleaning the condenser coils a few times a year. Cleaning it every time the season changes is an easy way to remember. To get to the coils, you need to remove the air conditioner cabinet, since the coils are on the back of the unit. Once it is removed and you can access the coils, blow compressed air into the coils. You can then use a mild household cleaner and soft bristle brush to clean the debris and dirt that has built up on them.

Check the Cooling Coins

On the front of the window air conditioner, you will find another set of coils. These are called cooling coils. Since cold air passing through the coils, they can accumulate ice and frost when your air conditioning is used. Remove the front panel to see the coils more closely, and take some time inspecting them. Remove any ice you see, and make a point of checking the coils often to remove any frost buildup.

Remove Insects and Nests

You may occasionally deal with insects making homes inside the air conditioner unit, especially if it hasn't been turned on for a while. During the winter season when it isn't being used, open up the unit and check all areas of the unit for insects or nests. Remove them carefully, wearing gloves to avoid getting a bite. Turning your unit on a few times, even during the cold weather season, will help keep the pests out.

If your air conditioner is malfunctioning in spite of regular maintenance, don't hesitate to call a professional air conditioner repair company. The sooner you address the problem, the sooner you'll have cool air again.


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