When To Clean Window Type Aircon

Tropical countries deal with a lot of rain and a lot of dust, almost every day. Because of this, owning an air conditioner can be quite a hassle sometimes because of the maintenance checks. Hence, it’s important to know when to clean window-type aircon.

The simple answer is to clean it on a regular basis to prevent the build-up of moisture and dust in the AC’s internal system. Cleaning your window air conditioning unit on a regular basis will make sure it can run efficiently for a longer period of time. In addition, a clean window-mounted aircon can help you save money by lowering your electric bills and avoiding costly maintenance.

But what should you remember when cleaning your window air conditioning unit? Here are some tips that can help you!

How Often Should You Clean Your Window Type Aircon?

Although most window air conditioners appear to be in good working condition, it’s still preferable for you to have it cleaned at least once or twice every 12 months. In this manner, you can check if there is accumulated dust or mold inside the system. It usually settles on locations like the coil and air filter which lower the cooling capacity of most window air conditioners.

Below is the general timeline you can follow.

Clean Your Air Conditioner Every 2 Weeks to 1 Month

When dust starts to accumulate in the filters, it’s only a few counting days left before it becomes a breeding habitat for germs. This is the reason why sometimes window air conditioning units emit an unpleasant odor or cause an allergic reaction. 

To fix this, simply remove the filter, wash or vacuum the clogged filter, dry it, and place it back. However, make sure to always check the instructional manual or call a technician to prevent more aggravating damage. This monthly check-up on your window air conditioner can help reduce excessive power consumption.

Clean Your Air Conditioning Unit Every 3 Months

In any case that you’re a fur-parent, it is recommended to thoroughly clean your window air conditioner at least once every three months. Furs are easily sucked into the compressor of the AC and can cause molding more rapidly. This is because it carries grease and other germs or virus that can potentially harm you in the long run. Hence, most window air conditioners suffer from intense dirt clogging caused by animal fur. Thus the air conditioning capacity of the unit lessens.

Signs That the Window Air Conditioners Require Cleaning

Window air conditioners might be strong against weather changes, but they cannot escape the signs of potential malfunctioning. When you observe these unwanted changes, it’s high time to clean the dust and dirt accumulated on your window air conditioner.

So how will I know when it’s time to clean my window AC?

1. Mold and mildew have taken over the outdoor vents.
2. There is a dust and dirt build-up on the filter.
3. Hot air comes from the aircon more often
4. The noise from your window aircon becomes unbearable
5. The air quality is unpleasant
6. It’s been more than a year since you last clean unit

After verifying all the signs, it’s time for you to take the next step, which is to prepare on cleaning the window-type aircon.

What Do I Need to Prepare?

Much like every other piece of equipment, you need to prepare the necessary tools to ensure nothing will go wrong. In cleaning a window air conditioner, you need the following tools and supplies:

1. Small vacuum
2. Soft brush
3. Spray bottle
4. Gloves (preferably cotton or rubber)
5. Face masks
6. Screwdrivers
7. Dish detergent
8. Water bucket 
9. Window AC instructional manual
10. Fin comb to straighten the wires or coils
11. Used clothes and newspapers

Once everything is set, then you are ready to clean your window air conditioner.

Tips on Cleaning a Window-Type Aircon

Don’t panic if you forgot to maintain a cleaner window air conditioner in a while. According to research, cleaning and sanitizing it on a regular basis can help you maintain at least 95% cooling performance. It’s not bad, considering it helps reduce energy consumption. 

To give you an idea of how to properly clean a window-type aircon, here are some tips and tricks you can use.

Clean the Filters

Check the window pane where the air conditioner is mounted, and see if there are accumulated unwanted particles. Ensure that the plugs are unplugged before opening the window-type aircon and removing the filters. 

Use the vacuum to clean it, then soak the filters in warm soapy water until it looks as good as new. Reinstall it when it’s already dry and remember to conduct regular maintenance on your AC’s filters.

Clean Off the Fins and Coils

Most manufacturers recommend doing, is to clean the coils regularly by using a soft brush, and fin comb in case you need to untangle them. If there are any bent fins, gently place them back. Spray the container with condensation to make sure there are no potential risks that can harm your cooling device.

Wipe Down the Grill and Exterior

While your filter is dried, wash it with warm water. Let them dry thoroughly prior to attaching them back. If there are any visible issues with the grill, call for the service of a technician and see what you can do. 

The exterior should also be checked if there are potential cracks, that can reduce the cool temperature of your room. If it has a high chance of being out of service, contact the manufacturer to have it replaced.

Final Word

It’s cool to have a window-type air conditioner or any type of aircon during hot steamy weather. However, it’s also important to do maintenance so that it can give us the best cooling service constantly.

The best thing about maintenance is that you can do it on your own provided that you have the tools and supplies for it. In case you’re having a difficult time with window-type aircon or air conditioners in general, visit our website to learn more about your favorite cooling device.