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Cleaning Air Conditioners
Clean the filter at least
once a month. It will help the unit run more efficiently. To reach the
filter, unit and remove the front grille, usually held in place by spring
clips or hidden tabs along its top edge. (Many new models now have a filter
you can pull out sideways from under the grille without removing the
grille.) Plastic filters can just be washed or vacuumed. Wash a foam or
metal filter in soapy water, and let it dry. Replace a disposable filter
with the same type. While the filter is removed, vacuum the evaporator coil
and fins, which are located just behind the filter. |
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Since removing an AC
involves heavy work, it's best to have a serviceman do this job. At the
beginning of each summer, unplug the unit and, with a helper, carefully
slide the air conditioner out of its casing onto a strong support such as a
table. Vacuum the inside of the unit, paying special attention to the
condenser coil at the rear. you may have to remove smaller units from the
wall before you can remove the casing. |
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If you have a split AC, get
the panels on the outdoor unit washed with water, then rinse with a hose. To
prevent rust from spreading, lightly sand any scratches with metal-grade
sandpaper and touch them up with any kind of outdoor enamel paint. .Change
or clear the Filter on the split AC's indoor unit at least once a month
during the cooling season. Shut off the power to the entire unit first.
Have the
condenser coil and fins on the outdoor unit cleaned once a year, at the
beginning of the summer--and more often if they get particularly dirty. |
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