As summer approaches and the sun becomes more... persistent, not only do residents wake up from their winter slumber, but so do air conditioners. But before you entrust them with the care of your summer comfort, there is one task that most people prefer to postpone until "tomorrow" - cleaning. How to clean your air conditioner yourself (and not get poorer)?
Why clean the air conditioner yourself? If you've ever called repairman and experienced a minor heart attack when you saw the bill, then you know that even the most basic filter cleaning can be more expensive than a weekend getaway to the seaside in the off-season. The good news? You can easily do much of the maintenance yourself. No, you don't need to have a degree in mechanics or wear overalls - all you need is good will, some basic cleaning products and this guide to help you achieve a clean air conditioner without (too) much complication.
Why would you even bother cleaning the air conditioner?
Besides the obvious – fresher air – there are some pretty compelling reasons. Clogged filters are a great breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and other microorganisms that happily sabotage your airways. An unpleasant odor, less efficient airflow, and higher electricity bills are just a bonus. And really, who doesn’t want to pay more for less? Need more reasons to clean your air conditioner yourself?
How to clean your air conditioner yourself (without turning into a repairman)
1. Turn off the device.
Don't play the electric hero - first unplug the device from the power supply. Safety comes first, especially if you're about to encounter a turbine.
2. Open and remove filters
Most filters open with a simple click (or two). If you have to use muscle, something is wrong – check the instructions.
3. Clean the filters
If they are only slightly dusty, a vacuum cleaner is enough. For more serious dirt, wash them with lukewarm water and a mild detergent. After drying (completely!), you can additionally disinfect them with an anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agent. Because, let's face it, no one likes musty smells.
4. Check the interior
Use a soft cloth or dry brush to clean the visible parts of the inside of the device. Use a flashlight to check if there is any mini ecological disaster lurking near the turbine. If it is really bad – it may be time to call a technician.
5. Drainage – often forgotten, but crucial
If the condensation has nowhere to drain, it will quickly start to drip, smell, or worse. Carefully clean the drain with a thin wire or plastic tube. By feel – we are not here to tear up half the apartment.
6. Reassembly and test
Once everything is clean and dry, replace the filters, plug in the device – and enjoy the freshness you created yourself (almost like DIY aromatherapy, except it really works).
When is it time for a professional?
If the climate:
- suddenly it's not cooling anymore,
- makes strange sounds (that are not your imagination),
- leaks water,
- or if you notice mold inside that has more square meters than your balcony,
...then it may be time to call a professional. It is recommended to perform a thorough service once a year, which also includes an outdoor unit and refrigerant gas check. Prevention is cheaper than replacing the entire device, believe me.
With a clean filter for a fresh start
With simple steps you can ensure cleaner air, better efficiency and, most importantly, lower electricity consumption. And all without tears, expensive service or a course in electrical engineering. So – get to work, put the filter in the tub, and let's go! Yours air conditioning (and your wallet) will thank you.
