Window air conditioners can help keep a room cool and comfortable during the summer months, but they can also become dusty and dirty. With the right tools and a bit of time, you can quickly clean your window air conditioner without removing it and improve its performance.
Supplies Needed to Clean a Window Air Conditioner Without Removing It
Cleaning a window air conditioner is a relatively easy task. However, it is important to make sure that you have the right tools on hand before you begin.
- A vacuum cleaner with a soft brush
- Dish detergent
- Spray bottle
- Warm water
- Paper towel or wet cloth
- Screwdriver
Instructions on How to Clean a Window Air Conditioner Without Removing It
Before doing anything, unplug the AC unit from the electricity.
- To clean the window air conditioner without removing it, take off the grill and the case.
- Use the vacuum with the soft brush attachment. Carefully vacuum out any dust balls or other stuff you see inside the unit. Vacuum the unit with a soft brush attachment to remove any dust balls or other debris. This will help keep it running efficiently and prevent it from overheating.
- Mix together your water and dish detergent to create a cleaning solution.
- Fill the solution in a spray bottle and spray the cleaning solution inside the air conditioner and wipe down any areas with visible dust or dirt. This will help get rid of any dirt or dust that may have built up inside the unit.
- Repeat as necessary until the window air conditioner is clean and free of any buildup or grime.
- Make sure to dry everything off completely when you’re finished so that mold and mildew don’t have a chance to grow.
- Check for any leaks or other issues. A Window AC unit can develop leaks over time, which can cause them to run less efficiently and may even damage your home. Take a close look at your window air conditioner periodically to make sure that it is functioning properly and there are no signs of leaks or other problems.
Note: If you can already see or smell mold spores on the front panel, add a little bleach to the warm soapy water. This will not only clean the dirty AC but also kill the mold spores and prevent mold growth in the future. Make sure to wear protective gloves!
The Benefits of Cleaning the Window AC Unit
Window air conditioners can become extremely dirty over time, as they suck in and filter the air from the outside. This can cause them to work less efficiently and can also lead to health problems for those who breathe in the dirt and dust that accumulates inside.
Cleaning a window air conditioner regularly will help to keep it running smoothly and reduce the amount of allergens it releases into the air.
AC Performance
One of the main benefits of cleaning a window air conditioner is that it helps to keep the unit running efficiently. As dirt and dust accumulate on the air conditioner filter inside the machine, they can become clogged or covered in mold or mildew, which can cause them to work less effectively.
By regularly vacuuming out these filters and spraying them down with a mixture of water and dish detergent, you can help to prevent this buildup from occurring and ensure that your air conditioner works at peak performance levels.
Better Air Quality
Another benefit of a clean air conditioner is that it reduces allergens in the air. As dust and other particles accumulate inside the unit, they can be released into the air when the machine is turned on, causing sneezing, coughing, and watery eyes for those who are allergic to them.
By regularly cleaning your window air conditioner parts, you can help to reduce the amount of allergens in the air and improve the quality of the air in your home.
Find Mold Issues Early
A final benefit of cleaning your window AC on a regular basis is that it can help you to find mold or mildew issues early. If these growths are not cleaned out, they can become a major health hazard over time and lead to health problems like respiratory infections or asthma.
By taking the time to regularly clean your window air conditioner, you can help to prevent these problems from occurring and keep your family safe and healthy.
When to Call an AC Professional
Most people should call a professional to clean window air conditioner units every year, but it’s a good idea to check your user manual to be sure.
Some pros offer a tune-up service that includes cleaning the inside and outside of the unit, checking the refrigerant levels, and lubricating all moving parts. They’ll also replace the air filter and inspect the ductwork to make sure there are no leaks.
If you notice any problems with your unit, such as a bad smell or constant dripping, it’s best to call in the pros to check your HVAC system sooner rather than later.
You may also want to consider hiring an HVAC or air conditioning specialist if you notice that your AC is running constantly and uses lots of energy.
Finally, if you live in an area where the AC is used often or all year-round, consider having it serviced quarterly or semi-annually to avoid costly repairs and keep your home cool.
Window AC Cleaning FAQ’s
Is a dirty window air conditioning unit bad?
A dirty window air conditioner is not necessarily bad, but it will be less effective at cooling your home. Over time, dirt and dust can build up on the coils and fins of the unit, which can impair its performance. In order to keep your air conditioner running efficiently and effectively, it is important to clean the air conditioner regularly.
How often does AC need to be cleaned?
The frequency with which you clean your window AC depends on how often you use it and how dirty it gets. If you do not use it often, a monthly cleaning will be enough. If it’s heavily used or gets dirty quickly, you may need to clean it every week.
Can I Spray Water on my Air Conditioner?
No, you should never spray water directly on your AC unit because it will damage the machine.
How much does it cost to clean your AC?
The cost of cleaning your AC will depend on how dirty it is and the size of the unit. Generally, you can expect to pay $50-$100 for a professional to clean your window unit. However, if you choose to do it yourself, the cost of supplies will be around $10.
Conclusion
Window air conditioners can be difficult to clean, but the benefits of doing so are many.
Not only does cleaning your AC unit help it run more efficiently and effectively, but it also helps reduce allergens in the air, find mold issues early, and keep your family safe and healthy.
Most people should call a professional to clean their window AC unit at least once a year, but it is a good idea to check your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional, taking the time to clean your window AC will help ensure that it stays in top condition for years to come.
