How to clean an air conditioner without breaking anything

How often should the air conditioner be cleaned

Experts recommend cleaning the indoor unit of the air conditioner every 2-4 weeks. It is important that the air filters are not clogged with dust and dirt, and that the device effectively cools the air in the room.

It is enough to service the outdoor unit of the split-system once or twice a year.

How to know when it's time to clean the air conditioner

Here are the signs that clearly indicate that the split system is dirty:

• There was an unusual noise air conditioner began to hum and crackle when working.
• After switching on, you smell an unpleasant, musty smell.
• The room temperature began to decrease more slowly than before.
• Electricity consumption has increased.

There is an important point here. If you are not a master in the maintenance of split-systems, then it makes sense to carry out only a superficial cleaning: tidy up the air filters of the air conditioner, remove dust from the radiator and fan, wash frame.

A more thorough processing of the same radiator, fan, drainage system and other deeply located elements must be entrusted to specialists. Otherwise, there is a risk that the air conditioner will fail.

How to clean the indoor unit of the air conditioner

What is needed

• Latex gloves.
• Vacuum cleaner.
• A dish sponge or soft cloth.
• Microfiber cloth.
• Soap: liquid or bar soap.
• A special agent - spray for cleaning air conditioners.

What to do

Find out what filters you have

This is indicated in the instructions for your split-system model. You can only clean reusable mesh filters, these are:

Disposable filters cannot be cleaned; they are simply replaced when they become clogged with dust. How often this should be done is also indicated in the instructions.

Remove filters

Unplug the air conditioner from sockets. Lift the split system cover - the item you want is located directly below it.

Washable mesh filters are curved plates. They need to be pulled out. This can usually be done by lifting the filter slightly and then gently pulling it towards you and down.

In order not to be mistaken, follow the user instructions.

How to remove disposable filters is indicated in the same place. Mounting systems can be different, but in any case it is very easy to pull the element out of the air conditioner.

Clean filters or prepare new ones

You can simply shake out the dust from disposable filters. Or immediately replace with new ones if they look very dirty or if their service life has expired.

Reusable must be washed. This is done in a specific sequence.

First, vacuum the filters.

Then rinse in cool running water, gently removing dirt with a sponge. Pay special attention to the corners and edges.

If the filter still looks dirty, you can soak it in soapy water for 20-30 minutes. To do this, combine a few drops of liquid soap or a teaspoon of soap shavings with 5–6 liters of warm water. Please note: you can immerse the filter in the mixture only if the instructions allow it.

After soaking, rinse the part thoroughly again under running water. Wipe with an absorbent microfiber cloth and let dry. Filters can only be dried naturally. Never use a hair dryer or place parts on top of battery.

Clean the internal elements of the split system

Vacuum the outdoor indoor unit of the air conditioner.

Use a soft cloth to wipe away dirt from all accessible areas.

To disinfect the split system and create a protective film on its parts, use an air conditioner cleaner. How to use it is usually indicated on the package. In some cases, manufacturers propose to spray the contents of the can on the internal elements of an open air conditioner, wait 20-30 minutes and then turn on the split system by activating ventilation mode for 3-5 minutes.

According to other recommendations, it is necessary to set the recirculation mode, and spray the cleaning agent in front of the suction zone.

Install filters

If you have strainers, make sure they are completely dry. Front setting they can be treated with the same cleaning spray - again, if allowed in the instructions for the conditioner.

After 10-15 minutes, replace the items and close the cover.

After that, turn on the split-system by selecting the ventilation mode for another 5–7 minutes.

If you have disposable filters, immediately install them in the unit.

Wash the outside of the enclosure

After completing the internal cleaning, unplug the air conditioner again and wash the outside of the air conditioner using a damp cloth. Pay special attention to the opening blinds at the bottom of the device.

Check if the air conditioner is working

Run the washed and fully assembled unit in cooling mode and see how it works.

If you continue to hear hum and smell an unpleasant smell, it means that the air conditioner needs professional care, including the use of special products and steam cleaners. Only specialists can use such devices safely.

How to clean the outdoor unit of the air conditioner

This is not always possible. If you live in a high-rise building, and the outdoor unit of the air conditioner is located on the outer wall, it is better not to risk it. For preventive cleaning, in this case, call the master.

What is needed

• Latex gloves.
• Set of screwdrivers.
• Vacuum cleaner.
• Sponge for washing dishes.
• Microfiber cloths.
• Warm soapy water.
• A container with a spray.
• A basin with clean warm water.

What to do

Disassemble the block

Disconnect the split system from the power supply. Remove the top cover of the air conditioner. It is usually self-tapping, so use a screwdriver of the correct size.

You also need to unhook the grill that covers fan.

Clean the outside unit inside

Vacuum thoroughly all surfaces you can reach. Dust residues accumulated in corners, on a pallet or inaccessible parts should be wiped off with a dry cloth.

Apply soapy water to the inside of the unit. It is convenient to do this from plastic bottle with a spray. Wait 10-15 minutes for the dirt to dissolve and wipe the parts with a damp sponge or tissue. Be prepared to rinse the fabric several times in clean water.

Wash the outdoor unit from the outside

With the same soapy water and a sponge or cloth, thoroughly wash the outer surfaces of the conditioner. Remove foam with clean water. Then wipe the surface with a dry cloth.

Assemble the outdoor unit

Make sure the block is dry both outside and inside. Then replace the dry and clean fan grill and top cover.