Window units are the most popular type of aircon in the Philippines. They are affordable, easy to install, and perfect for small spaces. However, like all air conditioners, they require regular maintenance to function at their best.
In this blog post, we will provide you with an extensive guide on how to clean window type aircon and tips on how to do it effectively. By the end of this post, you will have all the information you need to keep your window air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently. So let’s get started!
Tools and Materials Preparation
Before you start cleaning your window-type aircon, gathering all the necessary tools and materials is important. The right tools and materials are crucial for effectively cleaning your window-type aircon.
Here is a list of what you’ll need:
- Soft-bristled Brush: The soft brush is essential for cleaning the coils without damaging the fins.
- Coil Cleaner: A coil cleaner specifically designed for aircons is also important, as other cleaners may damage the coils.
- A Mild Detergent and Soft Cloth: A soft cloth and mild detergent are necessary for cleaning the front cover and exterior of the aircon.
- Plastic Sheet or Cloth: It will cover the area around the aircon to catch any debris that falls during the cleaning process.
- Warm, Soapy Water and a Bucket to clean the filter.
All the necessary tools and materials ensure your window air conditioner is cleaned thoroughly and safely. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully and use the right tools and materials to avoid damaging your aircon.
How to Clean a Window-type Aircon: Step-by-step Instruction
Now that you have gathered all the necessary tools and materials, it’s time to start cleaning your window-type aircon. This section will provide a step-by-step guide on cleaning window-type aircon effectively.
We will cover everything from preparing your aircon for cleaning to a more thorough cleaning of the coils and exterior. You should carefully follow the instructions to clean your aircon thoroughly and safely.
Step 1: Preparing to Clean Your Window Air Conditioner
- Power Off the Aircon
Unplug the aircon unit or shut off the circuit breaker. Disconnect all power sources, including remote controllers, to prevent electric shock or damage to the air conditioning unit.
- Remove the Unit’s Front Cover
Detach the front cover from the unit according to the manufacturer’s instructions – often, just unsnapping or unscrewing a couple of parts is enough. Set it aside for cleaning.
- Cover the area around the aircon with a plastic sheet or cloth to catch any debris.
Step 2: Cleaning the Filter
- Remove the AC Filters
Gently remove the filters from the front panel of the unit. These are usually located directly behind the front cover. Check the user manual to locate it accurately.
- Vacuum Filters and Grilles
Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to clean dirt and dust gently but effectively from air filters, grilles, and louvers. Vacuum both sides of the filters, ensuring not damage or puncture them.
- Wash Filters
In a solution of warm water and mild detergent, wash filters to remove any stubborn dirt and debris. The cleaning solution we usually use is hydrogen peroxide. Fill a basin or container with enough hydrogen peroxide solution, around 3%, so that you can submerge the filter completely.
Immerse the filters entirely in the solution and let them soak for between 15 and 30 minutes. This soaking allows the hydrogen peroxide to break down any bacteria, mold, or dust build-up on the filters.
After soaking, rinse the filters thoroughly under clean water to remove the hydrogen peroxide solution. This step ensures that no residual solution stays on the filters, which could potentially damage the aircon unit.
- Dry Filters
Allow filters to dry completely before reassembling the unit. The filters should be completely free of moisture to prevent mold growth.
Step 3: Cleaning the Front Cover
- Use a soft cloth with a sufficient amount of mild detergent to clean the front cover.
- Rinse the cover thoroughly and let it dry completely before putting it back on the aircon.
Step 4: Carefully Clean the Cooling Fins
Using a fin comb, gently and carefully clean the cooling fins. These aluminum fins are the thin, delicate metal parts around the compressor. Avoid applying too much pressure, as cooling fins can easily bend or become damaged.
Step 5: Clean the Drain Pan
Some window-type aircon units have a drain pan to catch condensed water inside the aircon. Consult the user manual to locate it and remove it. Clean the drain pan thoroughly using warm water, mild detergent, and a soft cloth.
Step 6: Clean the Evaporator Coils and Condenser Coils
The condenser coils, located outside in the aircon unit, transform refrigerant into a pressurized, hot gas. In contrast, the indoor unit’s evaporator coil, made of copper or aluminum tubes, absorbs indoor heat.
These components are sensitive, so you must treat them with care during any cleaning or maintenance activity. Ensure not to stretch or bend the coils during the cleaning process.
The coil cleaning process is as follows:
- Apply the coil cleaner to the coils according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Carefully wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild detergent. You can use a soft-bristled brush to clean the coils, making sure to avoid damaging the fins.
- Rinse the coils thoroughly and let them dry completely before putting the front cover back on.
Step 7: Cleaning the Exterior
- Use a soft cloth with a sufficient amount of mild detergent to clean the exterior of the aircon.
- Rinse the aircon thoroughly and let it dry completely before plugging it back in.
Step 8: Reassemble the Window AC Unit
Once all parts are thoroughly cleaned and dry, carefully reassemble the unit. Begin by replacing the filters, followed by the drain pan and cooling fins (if previously removed). Lastly, reattach the front cover.
Step 9: Test the Unit
After reassembling the aircon unit, plug it back in and restore power (including connecting remote controllers, if any). Test the aircon, ensuring that it is running smoothly and that there are no leaks or strange noises.
It’s important to clean your window aircon regularly. However, if you’re unsure how to clean the window-type aircon on your own, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a professional.
Tips and Tricks
Cleaning window air conditioner units can be a challenging task, especially for those who are new to it. These are some tips to keep in mind when cleaning a window-type aircon, ensuring that it continues to work efficiently in the hot and humid climate of the Philippines.
- Clean your Aircon Regularly: The hot and humid climate in the Philippines can cause dust and dirt to build up in your aircon. It’s important to clean your aircon regularly to ensure it works efficiently.
- Use the Right Tools and Materials: Cleaning with the wrong tools or washing materials can damage your aircon. Make sure to use a soft brush, coil cleaner, mild detergent, and a soft cloth when cleaning your aircon.
- Check the Manufacturer’s Instructions: Different aircon models may have different cleaning instructions. Make sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions before cleaning your aircon.
- Be Careful When Cleaning the Coils: The coils are delicate and can be easily damaged. Use a soft-bristled brush and avoid excessive force when cleaning the coils.
- Hire a Professional If Necessary: If you’re unsure how to clean your aircon or notice any issues with its performance, it’s best to hire a professional to inspect and clean your aircon.
Benefits of Regularly Cleaning Your Window Air Conditioners
Proper care and maintenance are critical for the optimal functioning of window air conditioners. By cleaning your aircon regularly, you can reap several invaluable benefits that not only improve your home’s comfort but also contribute to your well-being.
Here are three primary advantages of keeping your window air conditioner clean:
Enhances Energy Efficiency
Dust, dirt, and debris tend to accumulate in the filters, coils, and other parts of your window air conditioner. This build-up forces the unit to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, thus consuming more energy.
Regularly cleaning your aircon reduces the strain on the system, consequently enhancing its energy efficiency. A more energy-efficient unit translates to lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills.
Reduces the Risk of Unit Breakdowns
When dirt and grime accumulate in your window air conditioner, it negatively impacts the unit’s performance. Over time, excessive dirt in crucial components such as evaporator coils or filters may lead to severe consequences, including system corrosion, freezing, or overheating, resulting in potential breakdowns.
Regularly cleaning and maintaining your aircon significantly decreases the risk of system failures and prolongs the unit’s lifespan.
Minimizes the Release of Allergens and Pollutants
Maintaining a clean window air conditioner plays a vital role in improving indoor air quality.
Unclean aircons can harbor dust, mold, mildew, and pollen, providing a breeding ground for harmful allergens, contaminants, and pathogens. These pollutants can exacerbate respiratory issues, lead to allergies, or negatively affect sensitive individuals.
Regularly cleaning your aircon minimizes the release of allergens and pollutants, thus safeguarding your health and ensuring a cleaner air and fresher indoor environment.
FAQs
Yes, you can clean a window air conditioner without taking it out of the window. To do this, unplug the aircon from the power source and remove the front cover and air filter. Then clean the air filter with a soft cloth and mild detergent to clean the front cover, apply the coil cleaner to the coils, use a soft-bristled brush to clean up the coils, and clean the exterior of the aircon with a soft cloth and mild detergent.
To clean mold out of a window aircon unit:
1. Unplug the air conditioning unit and remove the front cover and air filter.
2. Use a vacuum cleaner to get rid of mold from the aircon, then use a coil cleaner and soft-bristled brush to clean the coils.
3. Clean the front cover and air filter using warm, soapy water, rinse them fully, and let them dry completely before putting them back in the aircon.
Yes, you can spray your window AC unit with water. However, it’s important to use a gentle spray and avoid getting any excess water on the electrical components of the aircon. Make sure to unplug the window unit before spraying it with water.
Window aircon should be cleaned at least once every three months or more frequently if window units are used frequently or in a dusty environment.
After thoroughly cleaning the window air conditioner, it should dry for at least 2-3 hours before plugging it back in and turning it on. That will ensure all the components are completely dry and prevent electrical issues.
The Bottom Line
Cleaning your window-type aircon is crucial to maintain its efficiency and prolong lifespan. Regular cleaning can help prevent dust and dirt build-up, leading to poor performance and higher energy consumption.
By following the tips and tricks on how to clean the window-type aircon, you can ensure that your summer magic gadget continues to work efficiently in the hot and humid climate of the Philippines.
It is recommended to clean the window air conditioner regularly, at least once every three months, or more frequently if used frequently or in a dusty environment. Proper cleaning and maintenance allow your window-type aircon to provide you with cool and comfortable air for years.
Beryl, a Pharmacy graduate, combines her academic expertise with a passion for cozy homes at Hometoppicks. With 3+ years of experience in researching and testing household and home care products, Beryl manages related content at Hometoppicks. Trust in her meticulous nature and profound knowledge to provide reliable advice and product suggestions, ensuring your home remains comfortable and convenient. You can find more about her here.
