Have you ever thought about the best ways to clean wall mounted aircon? It is thus important to strive for decent indoor air quality – even more so in Singapore where relative humidity is always so high. Among all the frequently used products, air conditioners seem to come in first place.
However, to provide the best air conditioning, you should clean the appliance regularly. If an aircon is not cleaned properly, it not only worsens the air quality but also affects its performance and durability
Here is a complete guide on how to clean wall mounted aircon properly, tools required, and signs you need professional help. LS Aircon Servicing Singapore provides expert services in Singapore regarding aircon installation, aircon relocation, aircon repair, and aircon general services.
Why Clean Your Wall-Mounted Air Conditioner Regularly?
With constant use, your air conditioner’s filters and components accumulate dust, dirt, and moisture, which can:
- Block the filters and therefore reduce flow of air and efficiency.
- Make conditions favorable for molds and bacteria to grow thus negatively impacting your health.
- Lead to more energy usage and hence high electricity costs.
- Reduce the total number of functioning years of a unit due to strain on its components.
- Aircon maintenance is important so you get value for money, have good quality air, and avoid shocking repair bills.
Regular aircon cleaning ensures efficient cooling, better air quality, and fewer unexpected repairs.
Tools Needed for Wall Mount AC Cleaning
Before starting, gather the following tools to ensure a thorough cleaning:
- Vacuum cleaner (particularly if it has a brush end).
- AC fin comb used for aligning condenser fins.
- Spray bottle filled with just water or a diluted mild detergent.
- Antifungal cleaning spray for mold prevention.
- Soft brush and a microfiber cloth for gentle scrubbing.
- Rubber gloves and a face mask for hygiene and safety.
- Flash light in order to be able to see well inside the unit.
For deep cleaning, use a waterproof cleaning bag so that you will not accidentally spill water on your walls, or floor.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Your Wall-Mounted Air Conditioner
1. Turn Off and Unplug the Unit
First of all, turn off any electricity supply to the AC to minimize the risks of shock when working on it. If need be, use the circuit breaker to switch off the current completely through the unit.
2. Clean the Outdoor Unit First
Outdoor Unit normally collects dust such as the leaves, grass, and dirt from its surrounding environment.
- Clear the surrounding area of litter and debris.
- Fortunately, you only need to clean the outside of the cabinet with a damp cloth. For difficult to remove stains, apply a cleaning solution, wash with fresh water, and dry with a clean towel.
3. Wash the Air Filters
Air filters are the most sensitive parts to clean first since they attract dust most of the time.
- The unit’s filters can be cleared by opening the front panel.
- Wash them under running water under the tap or using a garden hose.
- To remove dirt and odor then wash gently with soap and water.
- Air dry completely before reinstalling to avoid accumulation of moisture on it.
Personal Tip: Soak filters in a solution of vinegar and water for 15 minutes to get rid of the unpleasant smell and to sanitize the filters.
4. Clean the Blades and Fins
- Wipe the fan blades with a damp cloth to remove dust and grime.
- Inspect the condenser fins for bends. Carefully align the fins using a fin comb.
- Gently scrub the fins with a soft brush but be careful as they have a tendency to break easily.
5. Coil Maintenance
The evaporator and condenser coils require cleaning in order to cool effectively.
- Wash them gently with a solution of water mixed with some mild detergent. Leave it for a few minutes.
- Remove the loose debris with a piece of cloth.
Cleaning of coils makes the system work effectively with less energy consumption.
6. Vacuum the Interior
Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining dust and dirt from the interior of the unit. Make sure every corner is also cleaned up before moving to the next step.
7. Flush the Drain Line
The drain line can get blocked with dirt and algae which results in water leakage.
- Pull out the drain hose and rinse it with water or an antifungal solution.
- It is advisable to allow it to air dry before connecting it again.
8. Reassemble and Test
After cleaning, reassemble all the components together and reconnect the power supply. Sometimes, simply turn the aircon on for a few minutes to test the performance of the unit.
Should You DIY or Call a Professional?
While cleaning your aircon yourself can save money, some situations require professional expertise:
- Persistent cooling issues despite regular cleaning.
- Strange noises or foul odors from the unit.
- Bent or damaged fins, or low refrigerant levels.
A professional technician will:
- Perform deep cleaning and check the unit for potential issues.
- Perform advanced maintenance, such as chemical cleaning and coolant refilling.
Conclusion
In the end, it is crucial to learn how to clean wall mounted aircon in Singapore. It will help in maintaining its efficiency, extending its lifespan, and ensuring cleaner air in your home. Whether you do it yourself or consult a professional, regular maintenance will save you time, money, and energy in the long run.