How To Clean Your Window Air Conditioner Without Removing

Window air conditioners are great for cooling a room quickly and efficiently without causing a significant increase in your energy bill. Nonetheless, they require AC unit maintenance, just like any other type. After all, the filter can accumulate dust and even mold which is not healthy, especially if you already have respiratory issues like allergies or asthma. So to help you to improve your indoor air quality and to keep up with your AC unit maintenance routine, we bring this guide for cleaning your window air conditioner. The best part? This process doesn't require you to remove the unit, making it much easier. Keep reading to learn more about this simple process.

Essential Cleaning Supplies: What You’ll Need

When you're cleaning your air conditioner, it's important to pay attention to lots of small details. That's why it's really helpful to have all your cleaning supplies nearby

Here is a list of the must-have items:

• A container with warm soapy water (or a sink)
• A vacuum with a hand-held brush attachment (not too abrasive)
• A soft brush or comb (for reaching into the unit’s interior)
• A spray bottle filled with warm water and two drops of detergent
• Old newspapers or drop cloths (to protect your work area)
• Old clothes for wiping
• Screwdriver and tray for keeping screws and small parts
• Owner’s manual for the AC unit (or search for the model online)

Steps To Cleaning The Window AC Unit Without Removing it

Here are the steps that you’ll need to follow to thoroughly clean your ac unit.

 1.Gathering Supplies And Removing Exterior Parts

To begin start by unplugging your air conditioner and removing the filter. If your filter is disposable make sure you have one to replace it. In case the filter is not disposable you'll need to clean it by soaking it in water or a nearby container.

Afterward detach the case of your air conditioner along, with the back grills. These parts also require cleaning so soak them in the soapy water. Remember to pay attention to components like screws! Place them in a tray, for safekeeping while you clean the remaining parts.

By following these steps you can ensure that your air conditioner remains in working condition and provides you with refreshing and clean air.

2.Vacuuming And Wiping The Interior

Once the unit’s exterior is removed, and you can access its inner parts, run the vacuum gently to remove dust and wipe off any areas where you see the beginnings of mold growth. Also, you will need to use the spray bottle (with the water and detergent mixture) to spray the rest of the interior areas and wipe them down as well. If the stains don’t come out, you may need to allow the spray mixture to soak for a few minutes, respray, and then wipe again.

3.Cleaning The Exterior And Reassembly

As for the hard-to-reach interior parts, you’ll need to gently brush those off or use a can of compressed air to loosen the dust. Plus, don’t forget about the parts that have been soaking in the soapy water. Those will need to be wiped, rinsed, and dried.

Once you have all the parts cleaned, you can reassemble the ac unit and plug it back in.

How Often Should You Clean Your Window Air Conditioner?

Now that you know how to clean your window air conditioner, it's a good idea to inspect it every month when you clean or replace the filter. If you see dust starting to accumulate, all you have to do is wipe the exterior, but mold growth will require a more extensive cleaning like the process mentioned above.

Benefits Of Window Ac Maintenance

Regular AC unit maintenance is key to prolonging your appliance's life and keeping the room’s atmosphere as clean as possible, thus maintaining a healthy environment. Plus, you won’t have the stress of high electricity bills since your unit will run more efficiently. In doing so, you'll not only prolong your appliance's life but also maintain a healthier indoor environment and avoid the stress of high electricity bills due to improved efficiency. So, with a little effort and regular upkeep, your window air conditioner will continue to cool your space efficiently and effectively.

However, when you feel like it's time to upgrade your window air conditioning units you can rely on the experts, at Rizzo HVAC. We have been committed to improving air quality and comfort in homes and businesses for 60 years. From quality installation to consistent maintenance and effective repairs, we offer prompt and professional service for all your heating and air conditioning needs.

Read more: Why is my ac not blowing cold air?