Are you wondering how to clean a window air conditioner without removing it? In seven easy steps, you can, my friends.
Some say that it’s not possible. But the thing is that you can clean it without disassembling the parts. However, it could not give you the same results as getting rid of it.
Therefore, it’s important that you have to maintain it more frequently. But it’s less hassle, do you agree?
So, if you don’t know where to start cleaning, this article will guide you throughout the process. Let’s start cleaning!
The Importance Of Cleaning A Window Air Conditioner
So, why do we need to clean this equipment? Well, it could result in the accumulation of dirt, which will clog the filters.
Your air conditioner will not produce colder air compared to when it’s brand-new.
The dirt will also damage other components of your aircon, such as the fan and wires.
Moreover, the air circulating in your room might be full of dust and dirt.
You could inhale these substituents and develop sickness.
It would make you sneeze and cough a lot.
So, what should you do to prevent this situation?
Steps To Clean A Window Air Conditioner Without Removing It
Note that these steps will only apply to those who don’t want to remove their aircon. But it might include taking the filter since it’s just easy to remove.
So, here are the steps we gathered on how to clean a window air conditioner without removing it:
Step #1. Unplug your equipment
You don’t want to experience having electrical accidents, do you?
So, this step is necessary so that you won’t get electrocuted. Unplug your aircon cable from the outlet.
Step #2. Gather your cleaning materials
Here are the materials you need to clean your aircon:
- Bucket with soapy water
- Unused toothbrush
- Vacuum with small nozzle and brush
- Spray bottle (detergent and water mixture)
- Old, thin cloth
- Screwdriver
- Paper towels
- Gloves
- Fin comb
You can find an alternative for some materials that you do not own.
Step #3. Detach the filter
Take off the outer grill of your aircon. Filters are usually detachable and easy to clean.
It is the reason why we should clean the filters more often than the whole air conditioner. And it’s responsible for keeping the air fresh and cool.
So, once you have removed the filter, you can soak it in a laundry tub that is big enough to lay the filter flat.
If there are clogged dirt and dust that look like cobwebs in your filter, it means that you haven’t clean it for a very long time.
You can observe that your filter is full of dirt when the soapy water turns brown.
Step #4. Unscrew the case
So, the case is the main border or protection of the conditioner’s inside components.
Ensure that the screws you’re going to remove are for the case and not other components since you could detach them all. However, there is a screw that attached the border to the controls.
If the control buttons get loose, keep them in place using a cable tie. Place the screws together in a small container so that you won’t lose them. And clean the case using a spray with soapy water and an old cloth.
Step #5. Brush through the condenser coils
If you don’t have a vacuum with brush attachments, you can choose an unused toothbrush. Or any brush that has soft bristles.
Spray some mixture to the condenser coils and gently scrub through them to prevent them from bending due to the force. Use a paper towel to catch the obtained dust.
This procedure could help lessen the dirt falling onto your bed and make more mess.
Place more paper towels on the bottom surface of your air conditioner to absorb excess dirt and soapy water sprayed onto the coils. Continue to brush until you are contented.
Don’t forget to remove the paper towels constantly and drain off the absorbed water.
Using the fin comb is optional. However, you can use them if the coils are crooked.
Step #6. Clean the inner components
After brushing through the condenser coils, we will clean the outer portions of it. Remove visible dust and dirt using a vacuum with a small brush attachment. The size of the brush allows you to get into small spaces.
Now, it’s time to wipe over the surfaces with a cleanser. Using a spray bottle with a mixture of detergent and water, distribute your mixture evenly to the surface of your aircon.
You can use a clean cloth to wipe away excess dirt and water. Don’t forget to double-check all sides and surfaces if there is still some dirt.
Step #7. Reassemble
After every component has dried, including the filter and the case, you can now bring them all back together.
Start by removing the cable ties and attach the case. Screw it tightly together with the control.
Attach the filter correctly and close the aircon by putting back its grill.
It’s A Wrap
And that is how to clean a window air conditioner without removing it.
It may not give you the same results as disassembling them all, but it could save you time.
Since it’s easy, you can do it once or twice every month!
So, thank you for reading.
Happy cleaning!