Practice shows that after buying and installing an air conditioner, people use the device, but forget about the need for periodic maintenance. The issue of prevention or repair is raised in the event of a breakdown or the appearance of an unpleasant odor.
This approach is flawed as it leads to reduced equipment life, additional remanufacturing costs, and other problems.
The way out of the situation is periodic prophylaxis of the air conditioner, taking into account the recommendations of specialists. Below we will consider how to correctly perform this work, and in what sequence to act.
Why is it worth doing prevention?
Prolonged use of the device leads to the accumulation of dust and grease on its elements. This applies to the heat exchanger, filter unit, fan and the inside of the case. As a result, fungi and bacteria appear, which, along with the air flow, enter the room, and then into the lungs of a person, negatively affecting his health.
Contamination of the nodes has a bad effect on its operation. If you do not do preventive maintenance, over time the process of air renewal in the room worsens, the load on the device and the electrical network increases.
In addition, not only the internal, but also the external unit of the device suffers. A layer of fluff appears on it, due to which the operation of the heat exchanger is disrupted and the refrigerant cooling process deteriorates. As a result, the air conditioner operates less efficiently.
To prolong the service life of the equipment and eliminate health problems, it is important to clean the air conditioner in a timely manner and disinfect the elements.
Prevention period
The frequency of cleaning the device depends on its purpose. For example, it is recommended to clean the filter elements of air conditioners for home use every six months. When it comes to office equipment, the frequency of work is once every three months.
If installed in a cafeteria, retail space, or other public area, cleaning is done once a month.
The need for prevention can be easily identified by the smell that appears after turning on the equipment. An unpleasant "odor" indicates the appearance of bacteria inside and the need to remove them.
Masters note that during the maintenance process, they often find mucus and various fungi inside. That is why it is so important not to delay the repair and call the foreman to carry out the work.
Signs of heavy contamination
The air conditioner, as a rule, itself "prompts" the owner about the need for preventive maintenance. The main signs of contamination include:
- The appearance of a leak from the indoor module;
- An unpleasant odor that occurs after switching on (this was mentioned above);
- Increased noise, crackling, or unstable sound;
- Poor cooling quality, spontaneous temperature change.
Any of the listed symptoms is enough to start revising the apparatus and cleaning its elements. If you neglect the need to perform preventive maintenance, the risk of failure of certain parts and the inability to use the equipment increases. In such a situation, one cannot do without calling specialists and additional costs.
Practice shows that many issues related to the maintenance of an air conditioner can be solved at home. In this case, no special tool is needed.
In addition, useful information on the maintenance of a particular model is given in the instructions. It contains a scheme for removing the indoor unit, as well as basic cleaning principles.
What is evaluated during the examination?
Air conditioner service technicians recommend that you inspect the unit regularly. The more often this happens, the better.
The main points to which attention is drawn should include:
- Tightness of the freon circuit;
- Oil appearance inside the compressor unit.
- Freon leakage;
- No contour disturbances, due to which moisture can enter the system.
Pay attention to the integrity of the wires through which power is supplied, and the quality of the pins. Tighten all the mounting screws just in case. Remember that all work is carried out with the air conditioner off.
Stages of cleaning the indoor unit
If the climate system has just been purchased, installed and is running constantly, maintenance work is carried out at intervals of 30 days. The main activities include flushing the fan and filter mesh, as well as cleaning the evaporator, radiator and drainage system.
As noted above, the lack of such work leads to the accumulation of dust, excessive heating and an increase in the noise of the device. Below we will consider how to prevent this.
We clean fans and filter nets
A mesh filter is mounted inside, which is easy to remove and audit. For dismantling, it is required to disconnect the equipment from the household network and dismantle the front cover by unscrewing the fixing screws.
Now it remains to get the mesh out of the conditioner, soak it in soapy water or a special agent, and then leave it for a while.
The next step is to flush the fan that keeps the cold air moving. During operation, a thick layer of dust, debris and grease accumulates on the blades of the product.
There are two types of fans - removable and non-removable. In the latter case, cleaning is done with a brush. This is not very convenient, but it allows you to remove excess pollution.
To prevent a removable fan, you need to lower it in soapy water, hold it in it for a while, then remove it and return it to its place.
Radiator and heat exchanger maintenance
In most models, the heat exchanger and radiator are mounted in an indoor unit. For high-quality cleaning, it is recommended to dismantle and disassemble the unit, and then proceed to cleaning work.
This is an expensive process, so you can save money on it and do the work yourself.
Here's a step-by-step instruction:
To avoid contamination of the heat exchanger plates, it is advisable to act promptly and to clean it every 30 days. It is best to do the work in conjunction with flushing the filter.
Cleaning and disinfection of drainage
The air conditioner has a drainage system, consisting of 2 nodes:
- Pallet - designed to collect excess moisture;
- Tube - with its help water is removed.
The accumulation of dust and its interaction with moisture leads to the appearance of mold, fungi and bacteria, and the main result is the appearance of an unpleasant odor when turned on.
After dust and debris enters the drainage system, these elements become contaminated. After a while, it starts dripping from the air conditioner.
For prophylaxis, you need to discard the pallet from the board and the outlet tube, and then remove and rinse in water.
The drain tube is cleaned with a conventional vacuum cleaner or a blower compressor. To flush the channel, running water, soap composition or a special cleaning agent are used.
In difficult cases, mold and mildew has already spread through the system, so a mold and mildew remover is required to remove the dirt. Special attention should be paid to the processing of the pallet, because often it is he who is the main source of the stench.
Method of using special means
For the prevention of the heat exchanger, a special foam is used. To process the assembly, shake the can several times, then process the finned part of the heat exchanger.
After some time, the foam is converted into a liquid, and the pollution goes into the drainage system. Next, you need to turn on the air conditioner to dry the treated parts. Detailed instructions on how to use the foam cleaner are provided on the can with the product.
If you use the product in the form of a spray, you need to spray it on a number of elements - the intake deflector and the heat exchanger.
In the process of preventive maintenance, it is worth turning on the device and putting it into ventilation mode. Information about the features of the use of the tool can be found on the packaging
How it works?
The principle of operation of the cleaner will be directly composed of the active components that are in its composition.
Typically, products contain:
- Surfactants (surfactants). Their task is to clean the surface.
- Fragrances and elements that ensure the "sticking" of the detergent to the units of the conditioner.
- Special additives (alkaline, acidic, chlorine-alcohol).
- Biologically active elements intended for pest control inside the apparatus.
Steps for cleaning the outdoor unit
In contrast to the indoor unit, the outdoor unit can be cleaned more frequently - twice a year is enough. It accumulates foliage from trees, branches, dirt, fluff and much more. Failure to clean the outdoor unit increases the risk of overheating of the radiator and compressor and a reduction in their service life.
The difficulty is that it is not always possible to access the module. Despite the installation of the outdoor unit near a window or balcony, it is not always possible to get to it without a safety belt and special equipment.
If you do not want to risk your life, you should call specialists.
If there are no difficulties with prevention, do the following:
- Turn off the power to the device (remove the plug from the mains).
- Remove various contaminants from the surface.
- Dismantle the protective casing and clean the inside of the debris.
- Clean the fan blades with a damp cloth.
- Clean the radiator with a steam cleaner or water pressure. Be careful not to get moisture on the electrical part of the device.
How to check the tightness of a freon housing?
One of the air conditioner malfunctions is the loss of tightness of the circuit with freon. If preventive measures are taken in time and the problem is detected, it is possible to avoid additional costs in the future and "save" the climate system.
The complexity of the situation depends on a number of factors - the volume of the released refrigerant, the place of damage, the time from the moment the leak appears until it is detected, as well as the operating mode of the device.
In general, refrigerant leakage leads to a number of unpleasant consequences, primarily overheating of the compressor.
This problem is diagnosed by the following symptoms:
- Darkening of the compressor insulation;
- From time to time protection against overheating is triggered;
- After 5 minutes after switching on, cold or warm air does not come out (taking into account the set mode);
- Damage to the insulation on the pipeline;
- Deterioration of the oil condition;
- Frost appears on the tube of the outdoor unit (during continuous operation).
If damage to the circuit is identified in a timely manner and preventive measures are taken, serious leaks and breakdowns can be avoided. Typically, the cause of a leak is a decrease in the density of the roller joints. This problem can be easily identified by monitoring the condition of the air conditioner.
How to identify the appearance of moisture in the freon circuit?
To determine the fact of the appearance of moisture in the freon circulation circuit, you should pay attention to a number of characteristic signs:
- The appearance of a green tint in the oil and increased acidity (confirmed by the test). The downside is that such a symptom appears already when the problem is running.
- When the climate system is switched to heating mode, when the outside temperature is low, thermal protection is triggered. This is due to the presence of water in the system, its freezing and blockage of the tube. As a result, the suction pressure drops and the compressor overheats. In such a situation, it is required to turn off the air conditioner and contact the repairmen.
Express oil analysis
Few people know, but in the process of prevention, you can do an express analysis of the oil yourself, which circulates in the freon circuit along with the refrigerant.
Considering the whole process, first a little oil is taken from the compressor, then it is checked and compared with a known pure oil.
- Turn off the air conditioner and wait 10 or more minutes for the oil to drain from the walls of the pipes.
- Connect one-fourth ball valve to the service outlet.
- Put the rubber tube on the tap, lower the other end into the container.
- Drain off a small amount of the oil and let it stand until the foam is gone.
- Pour the collected composition into a clean bowl.
The resulting oil needs to be compared with a known pure liquid. Comparison criteria are smell and shade.
If the oil is dark and stinks, this indicates frequent overheating of the compressor. Such a liquid no longer fulfills its functions and requires replacement. If the work is not done on time, the device will fail.
The presence of a greenish color indicates the appearance of "copper" salts, which is explained by the appearance of moisture in the circuit. An acid test is recommended for accurate diagnosis.
If the "diagnosis" is confirmed, the device requires prophylaxis. It will not work at home - you need to take the device to the workshop.
If the test results are positive, the liquid comes back:
- Pour the oil into a clean, high-sided glass.
- Mark the level.
- Lower the free end of the tube into it (it was connected earlier).
- Open the valve and wait a while.
- Add as much oil as is in the glass.
- Start the air conditioner and enter cooling mode, then close the liquid port. After a while, the pressure in the tube will decrease.
- Open the valve on the port to suck oil into the air conditioner. As soon as the level reaches the mark made, turn off the tap and turn off the climate system. When doing this, open the liquid port.
Cleaning products - overview, instructions for use
The market offers a wide range of products for the prevention of air conditioners, which are worthy of attention and do an excellent job. Let's highlight some of them.
DOMO
Disinfectant for the prevention of air conditioners and ventilation systems with antibacterial action.
- Cleaning and disinfection.
- Film formation on the surface of the air ducts (evaporator).
- Removal of bacteria and fungi, which eliminates the appearance of unpleasant odors.
Regular use of the product can reduce the risk of developing allergic diseases and other respiratory problems due to bacteria that appear inside.
The product is sold in 0.32 liter cans. The composition includes water, organic solvent, surfactant (cationic and nonionic), odor absorber, antimicrobial elements, corrosion inhibitors, perfume and hydrocarbon gas propellant.
To use DOMO, you need to do the following:
- Switch off the air conditioning system, open the cover and remove the strainers.
- Shake off the can and apply the product for 10-15 minutes on the evaporator, and after 3-5 minutes turn on the air conditioner.
Favor Cool
Favorkul is a product intended for disinfection and cleaning of ventilation systems and air conditioners. The product is suitable for removing mold, mildew, germs and dust. Regular use helps to remove unpleasant odors and clean the internal elements from contamination.
In addition, Favorkul is used for air ducts and disinfection of air conditioners in cars, as well as for air purification in a room.
Used at home and in industrial applications. Capacity - 0.5 l. Judging by the reviews, the product copes with the task perfectly.
TOP House
The TOP House cleaner was developed by German craftsmen and produced in Germany. Purpose - prevention of outdoor and indoor units. Also, the product is used to remove dirt in split systems, air filters, as well as cleaning fans and guides.
A feature of the product is the absence of a negative effect on the surface layer in the heat exchanger tubes. Volume - 0.75 liters.
Benefits:
- In the production process, a formula developed by leading European manufacturers is used;
- Dust settling protection;
- Powerful antiseptic effect;
- Refreshing the surface;
- Antibacterial effect.
Techpoint
One of the most powerful cleaning agents for air conditioners is Teechpoint. The product is produced in Russia, supplied in 200 ml plastic bottles.
The composition is intended for preventive treatment of air conditioners (including automobile), split systems, ventilation. The main function is to disinfect the surface for up to 8 months.
After processing, bacteria, viruses and mold are removed, which often leads to diseases and has an unpleasant odor.
As part of Techpoint water, glycols, surfactants, CHAS, solvents, isopropanol, complexing agents and dye. Also added are the company's secret ingredients, flavor and color.
Spray Cleaner Disinfecant (RTU)
Cleaner Disinfecant is used for preventive maintenance (periodic maintenance) of the indoor unit of the air conditioner. The agent is sprayed onto the coil from top to bottom.
According to the manufacturer, the spray keeps the internal components of the climate system clean and removes up to 99.9% of germs within 60 seconds.
The cleaning agent is supplied in a 1 liter container that is ready to use. A manual spray gun is provided. The product is based on an alkaline composition.
Indesit C00093751
Indesit C00093751 cleaner is in great demand and has received positive reviews from many users. This agent is used to disinfect air conditioning systems installed in a home or car.
Its action is aimed at neutralizing unpleasant odors, removing fungi, dust and dirt that accumulate on the internal elements of the device.
With the help of Indesit C00093751, you can clean the air conditioner yourself and without the involvement of specialists. The composition is sold in cans with a capacity of 150 ml.
Magic Power MP-028
If you need a reliable and effective agent for disinfection and prevention of air conditioners, Magic Power MP-028 is the best option. The product cleans, disinfects and deodorizes the treated surface.
Thanks to its well-thought-out composition, the spray prevents the growth of dangerous microorganisms, destroys mold, fungi and bacteria. After preventive maintenance with Magic Power MP-028, an unpleasant odor is also removed.
How to prepare the system for winter or summer?
Prevention of an air conditioner is the cleaning and disinfection of its elements. At the same time, it is important to tie your actions to a specific season. Regardless of whether the system is adapted to the winter period, there are a number of limitations that must be taken into account during operation.
For example, each manufacturer indicates the temperature, at a decrease of which it is not recommended to turn on the device due to the risk of leaks and the appearance of ice on the outdoor unit.
When preparing climatic equipment for the summer, it is required to clean the inside, because during the application a lot of dust must have accumulated inside. In addition, the fan and filters are cleaned as well as the evaporator.
Pay attention to the outer block, because poplar fluff appears in May, and the situation will only get worse.
Remember that timely care will prolong the life of the device and its life.
Prevention of an air conditioner is a complex of actions, many of which can be done independently and without calling specialists. So, cleaning and processing of the indoor unit takes no more than an hour and is calmly performed without the use of special tools. But situations are possible when you cannot do without masters.
For example, when it is necessary to clean the outdoor unit using safety belts or to analyze the oil in the compressor.
In addition, the volume of refrigerant in the system is reduced by 7% every year. The reserve needs to be replenished, and for this you will have to turn to professionals.
To extend the service life of the split system and avoid problems, it is important to periodically clean the device yourself, and if serious problems are identified, call specialists.
THE SPLIT SYSTEM HAS A LONG STOP TO BE AN EXOTIC TYPE OF TECHNOLOGY: IT IS POSSIBLE TO MEET IN ALMOST EVERY MODERN APARTMENT. LOTS OF ADVANTAGES, CONVENIENT SETTINGS, EASY TO USE, AND MOST IMPORTANT, CREATION OF AN OPTIMAL MICROCLIMATE IN THE ROOM MAKE PURCHASE OF THE AIR CONDITIONER AS A NECESSITY THAN A HANDLE. BUT LIKE ANY OTHER TECHNOLOGY, THE SPLIT SYSTEM NEEDS TIMELY MAINTENANCE AND REGULAR CLEANING. HOW TO CLEAN AIR CONDITIONER IN HOME CONDITIONS, WHERE TO START AND WHAT IS THE ORDER OF THE PROCESS?
Air conditioner cleaning is carried out both with the help of specialists and with your own hands. In the second case, you simply cannot do without operating instructions. But first, let's take a look at the signs by which it becomes clear that it's time to clean the split system.
Accumulating dirt impairs the performance and quality of the air conditioner. Most importantly, polluted air affects your health. There is mold, fungus, dust mites, and whole families of different bacteria in the air we breathe. Hence, asthma, various dermatitis and other skin diseases.
To avoid such a situation in the apartment, a light cleaning of the split systems is carried out: from one to three times a week, depending on the intensity of use of the device. There are several obvious indicators that your air conditioner is dirty.
What you should pay attention to?
- If you feel immediately after the start of the split system, then know: this is the most obvious sign of pollution. There may be dirt on the heater grate or there may be a drainage problem.
- If the electricity consumption has changed upwards, and the power decreases - it's time to open the air conditioner and check its cleanliness inside.
- A peculiar hum and crackle during the operation of the split system may be a signal of clogging of the filter or turbine. Knocking can also come from the outer casing if it is clogged. In this case, the fan blades will not be able to spin normally and will touch the walls of the case or other object.
- Condensation leakage is another indicator of contamination of the air conditioner by dust and dirt.
- “Sloshing” and “gurgling” occur in case of poor drain performance or loss of refrigerant.
After you notice any of these signs of deterioration in system performance, you can either call a professional to clean it, or do it yourself. What and how to start, we will now figure it out.
You can clean the internal filters, fan, drainage system and heat exchanger on your own. What is needed for this?
- user manual;
- toothbrush;
- soft tissue;
- warm water;
- soap;
- vacuum cleaner.
You are unlikely to enjoy touching dirty interior parts and breathing dust. Remember to wear a respirator and gloves before starting work.
The process of cleaning a split system at home will take place in several stages, depending on the part being cleaned. To figure out how to access each of them, let's look at them separately from each other.
Before flushing the air conditioner, be sure to disconnect it from the mains! Cover the floor with newspaper, plastic wrap, or damp rags to keep it from getting dirty.
Let's start with filters. To get to them, you need to understand how to open the air conditioner. It's simple: pry off the cover of the split system, pull it towards you and up and bring it all the way. Before us will open filters - curved mesh plates, to remove which you need to slightly raise them up, then pull them towards you and down. Already at this stage you can see the degree of contamination of your device.
Next, the filters must be washed with cool water. If the dirt won't wash off, soak the filters in warm water for about half an hour. To enhance the effect, add a few drops of liquid soap there or crumble the usual one and stir - let the soap completely dissolve.
Then rinse the parts with running water again, wait for the removed parts to dry naturally, and wipe them again with a soft cloth. You can dry the filters on the windowsill if it's sunny outside.
Do not dry the filters with warm air currents, such as a hairdryer, as this may deform them.
Before reinstalling the filters, it is necessary to vacuum the internal elements of the split system and wipe the accessible places with a soft cloth.
So far, we have been talking about mesh filters. If you use pocket filters, you will not be able to clean them - such filters are simply changed after the expiration of their service life.
It is highly discouraged to flush the filters more than six times, as the filter can lose its properties and reduce the throughput.
Radiators are designed to change the temperature of the distilled air and represent one large plate, which consists of many small ones. They are located at a very small distance from each other, and if the dust is not clogged in the gaps between them so deeply, then you can remove it with a brush with a long bristle.
A high-power vacuum cleaner will also cope well with this task. After cleaning, wipe the area with a damp cloth until all dust is removed.
If the dirt has gone deep, most likely it has already mixed with condensation and formed a mud film. It is not possible to remove it yourself. Steam cleaners are used to remove such contamination, and it is better to entrust this work to professionals.
You can find the radiator by opening the bottom cover of the split system. Pull the plate out. After cleaning, repeat the sequence in reverse order.
An important element of the system is the rotary fan. It is an elongated shaft with blades that "pushes" cooled air into the room. Its contamination can lead to complete failure, since the formed deposits of dust and dirt block the operation of the fan.
To prevent this from happening, you need to dissolve a little soap in warm water and spray it on the blades. After the dirt is soaked, turn on the fan at its lowest speed. Be prepared for droplets of liquid to fly apart. Then stop working and clean the area by hand: using a brush or toothbrush and the same soap solution.
Before starting work on cleaning the fan, cover the wall with a protective film and place newspapers on the floor so that dirt escaping from the air conditioner does not get on them.
You should be extremely careful: try not to damage the fan blades, otherwise it will need to be completely replaced.
If the resulting grease and dirt clog the drainage channels, then water will not flow outside, but inside the room. The fungus will not “sit” in the pipes for a long time and will begin to spread: first to the drain pan, and then to the radiator. All this will again affect the purity of the inhaled air.
You can only clean the drainage with your own hands: using a brush and a detergent, for example, for washing dishes. After processing the drainage itself, check the cleanliness of the drainage pan, or better wash it for prevention.
The professional treatment of the drainage system consists of an antibacterial effect using steam. Another option is to completely clean the entire air conditioning system by spraying a special substance.
This completes self-cleaning of the home air conditioner. If you do not want to waste a lot of time, that is, there is a simpler option, you can purchase a split system with an automatic cleaning system. Such a system works according to a simple principle: periodically switching to "idle" mode, it dries out internal components and parts.
Sometimes such air conditioners are accompanied by an ionic air purification system - dust is ionized, and it passes more easily into the dust collector. However, even such “smart” air conditioners have to be cleaned by hand, since they will not wash the filters by themselves, and the process itself is still ambiguous and mysterious.
The most difficult thing in cleaning an air conditioner is perhaps its outer part. The outdoor unit is usually located outdoors, and access to it is most often complicated by its height and location from the street. The only good thing is that such a block needs to be cleaned only 1-2 times a year.
What should be done?
- Turn off the power to the machine.
- Remove the top cover and immediately imagine the scope of work to be done.
- Remove debris that can be removed manually.
- Take a powerful vacuum cleaner and clean the accessible surfaces with it.
- Try not to touch the electrical circuit of the unit - only professionals can repair it.
- Brush out what's left with a medium-bristled brush.
- Wipe cleaned surfaces with a soft, damp cloth.
To clean the outdoor unit, steam cleaners or mini-washers are more often used, which give a greater effect. It is important to remember that the air conditioner must not be started until all internal parts are completely dry.
Even if everything is in order with your device and it works like a clock, there are some simple tips for caring for the technique that you need to follow.
- Let's start with the fact that if your apartment is located on the first floors of a building - from the first to the fourth - then it is recommended to clean the external block of the air conditioner once every three months, since the pollution in this case is greater and more intense than on the upper floors.
- If the air conditioner is located above the seventh floor, it can be cleaned once every two years or less. True, only if you did not notice the signs of contamination that we described earlier.
- No matter what floor you live on, the indoor units must be cleaned 3-4 times a month, because even with good work, dust and dirt settle on the walls and critical parts. It is better to spend a few minutes a month lightly flushing the air conditioner than a few thousand to repair or replace it.
- Remember to monitor the status of the outdoor unit c. Frost, icicles and snow can cause damage to the air conditioner, as well as threaten the lives of people and cars standing below - under your windows.
If coupled with the air conditioner you use supply ventilation with filters, then the air conditioner, as a rule, gets dirty less often. For example, it delivers purified air into the room. At the same time, the windows can be closed to keep out dust and exhaust fumes. In addition, the breather also works in the recirculator mode, that is, it will help clean the air already in the room. Of course, as in the case of a split system, the equipment needs care, but with such equipment it is much easier - it is enough to periodically change it. In return, you will get clean fresh air inside the premises, its recirculation, heating of incoming air in winter, quiet operation and complete protection from dust and dirt.
- First, check, consult with experts if in doubt.
- Make sure that there is no draft in the room when the split system is in operation. Otherwise, the device operates at increased loads on the fan and compressor - this will shorten its service life.
- The same can be said about the operation of the split system at maximum airflow and minimum temperature conditions. These modes require high power from the air conditioner, which, with frequent use, negatively affects the details of the indoor unit.
- Overhaul and cleaning must be carried out at least once a year. In case of constant use - twice a year. This "inspection" of your air conditioner will increase its life and reduce the risk of major repairs in the future.
- Install the split system in a place that is most out of the sun.
For a long time, different types of air conditioners have become almost the main technique in our homes, because thanks to them we establish an ideal microclimate in our premises and, thus, save ourselves from heat or cold. But there is no such equipment that does not require regular maintenance, so for the efficient and proper operation of the air conditioner, think about cleaning its parts. In what cases can the device be cleaned independently at home, and in what cases will the help of a master be required?
When is it necessary to clean the indoor and outdoor unit of the air conditioner
Clean the equipment immediately in the following cases:
- The air conditioner started using more electricity.
- The climate system began to work worse or its power decreased.
- When the air conditioner is turned on, a characteristic crackling or loud noise is heard to the electricity. In this case, you should check the block turbines or filters for clogging.
- During the operation of the equipment, condensation leaks from its external unit.
- An unpleasant and pungent smell that appears immediately after turning on the air conditioner. This is a warning that there is a problem with the drainage system or the evaporator grill.
- Gurgling or popping sounds that indicate that the drain is not performing well or the cooling system is losing refrigerant.
- The external unit emits a characteristic tapping, which means it's time to clean its case from clogging. The fan blades no longer spin or are caught on another object.
With a careful attitude to the air conditioner, it will work its entire operational life without repair, which is about 11 years of ideal work.
With a careful attitude to the air conditioner, it will work its entire operational life without repair, which is about 11 years of ideal work
How to clean an air conditioner yourself at home: step-by-step instructions for different components
Before you start cleaning the air conditioner, determine the types of work to be done. The following processes are done independently: cleaning the fan, heat exchanger, filters, drainage.
The outdoor unit also needs cleaning, but it is best to hire a professional for this job.High-altitude work is not safe and requires special equipment and experience.
For self-cleaning of equipment you will need tools:
- vacuum cleaner;
- soft rags;
- small brush (not very wide and with medium bristles);
- toothbrush;
- detergent;
- soap;
- container with warm water.
Cleaning the filters
It is easy to clean the filters, so everyone can cope with this process, the main thing is to adhere to the following sequence:
How to clean the heat exchanger
The heat exchanger affects the quality of cooling and heating of the room, so the procedure for cleaning it should not be ignored.
- To begin with, the indoor unit opens in the device.
It is also important to clean a dirty air conditioner heat exchanger.
- The grate is taken out.
We take out the heat exchanger grill
- The vacuum cleaner collects all the dust from the grate. The vacuum cleaner should be operated at medium power.
The heat exchanger is best cleaned with a soft brush.
- Wipe the grille with a slightly damp cloth, so that subsequently there are no traces of dirt and dust accumulation.
Wipe the heat exchanger grill with a rag
- We insert the element in its original place and cover it with a lid.
Antiseptic treatment of heat exchanger
- Wait a little before turning on the air conditioner.
How is the external cleaning of the device carried out
Also, the external unit of the device needs constant cleaning, although it gets dirty much less than the internal one, therefore, it should be removed from dust once every 6 months.
For the procedure, a powerful vacuum cleaner is used, which is able to pull out all dust from the external filters and heat exchange radiator, as well as a soft brush:
When the outdoor unit is located within reach, use a compressor to service it. A hose with a fitting is pushed into the body and the valve opens. In this way, you will remove dirt outside the grille of the air conditioner.
How to clean the fan
The fan is located inside the unit, so you need to open the cover to see its blades. The accumulation of dust on the fan does not allow it to work properly. You can remove plaque in this way:
The fan cleaning procedure must be carried out carefully and carefully so as not to damage the blades.
Cleaning the fan from dust must be done carefully and carefully so as not to damage the parts
Drainage cleaning
The drainage of the device is cleaned with an antibacterial treatment. This process includes the maintenance of all units of equipment. With a steam generator, this can be done much faster.
The housing, drainage and filters of the device must be cleaned regularly. This should be done depending on the functional purpose of the equipment and its climatic location:
The drainage of the equipment is cleaned as needed. You can check the contamination of the system channels visually on wet spots.
The service life of the equipment depends not only on the chosen model and good installation of the air conditioner, but also on its correct use. By adhering to simple rules, you will extend the operating time of the equipment.
- There should be no drafts in the room with the air conditioner. Close doors and windows to maintain the required temperature, otherwise the equipment will work in an enhanced mode, therefore, the load on the compressor and fan will increase.
- Do not turn on the air conditioner for maximum airflow, as well as minimum temperature conditions, unless necessary, because with a constant high power of the equipment, internal parts will wear out faster.
- The air conditioner must operate at the permitted outdoor temperature: inverter models - from -5 to -10 degrees, equipment with a "winter kit" to -20 degrees, basic models - from 0 to -5 ° C.
- Service must be carried out continuously. With intensive use, twice a year, with moderate use, once a year. Specialized firms will take relatively inexpensively for such a service, but at the same time, the likelihood of preventing serious repairs in the future increases.
- The indoor unit of the system should not be exposed to direct sunlight.
- After a long period of inactivity, the air conditioner switches to ventilation mode to run the entire system. This will remove accumulated condensation and eliminate unpleasant odors.
- The air flow coming from the air conditioner must not be obstructed in its path.
- The outdoor unit must be protected from atmospheric precipitation. For example, make a visor that will prevent snow and rain from falling on the block. You can also install an anti-vandal grill.
- Once a quarter, clean the air conditioner filters, dry them and replace them.
You can not only prolong the operation of the air conditioner, but also make the equipment less dirty. And for this, adhere to these rules:
- periodically ventilate the room while using the equipment;
- do not place foreign objects on the air conditioner or its indoor unit;
- containers with water and flowers also do not need to be placed on equipment;
- do not touch the equipment with wet hands;
- do not let animals sit on it.
In what cases it is impossible to do without a service center
When buying an air conditioner, be prepared for the fact that in some cases you cannot do without service. There are several reasons that will force you to contact a specialist:
You cannot eliminate any of these reasons yourself, which means that you cannot do without service.
Video: how to clean the external unit of the air conditioner with your own hands
Now you already know how to maintain the air conditioner, however, the cleaning process of various parts must be carried out carefully, as you can damage the equipment or get yourself injured. What can we say about the fact that a heavily damaged element will have to be changed. Also make sure that the air conditioner parts dry well after cleaning. Comprehensive service will help you to use your air conditioner for a long time.
Window air conditioner is the most acceptable option for an economical family. Possesses the main characteristics of powerful split - systems, but at the same time allows you to save significant money when buying.
The air conditioner requires careful and timely maintenance. Only with its correct operation can we talk about long terms of work. So, the main factor of care is timely cleaning. How to clean a window air conditioner. Difficult, at first glance, in operation, the device is actually cleaned quite easily. To carry out the basic cleaning of the device is quite within the power of the average owner.
Window air conditioner. Device
In order to clean a window air conditioner with your own hands, you should first familiarize yourself with the internal structure of the device.
Window air conditioner is used on old, "Soviet" window systems. The device crashes directly into the window. Therefore, its use in rooms with plastic windows is impossible.
Window air conditioner is a one-component device. It consists of one main unit. Its housing includes a compressor, a filter, and a refrigerant container. In appearance, it quite resembles a box.
Since the device is quite simple, it can be installed completely independently.
Main functions
A window air conditioner has several advantages:
- Easy installation
- Reliable work
- Long-term operation
- Self-care of the device without the need to call specialists
- Affordable price.
That is why the window-type air conditioner is so popular among the middle-income population. The owners have the opportunity to spend the basic funds once on the purchase of the device, then take care of the device on their own, without spending additional funds on the care. So, it is quite possible to independently clean the window air conditioner at a convenient time for the owner, without applying unnecessary efforts.
It is worth noting the minor disadvantages inherent in these models:
- The device makes a lot of noise during operation
- Due to the fact that the device is mounted in a window, sunlight penetrates less into the room. This contributes to the appearance of semi-darkness.
- Since the air-conditioned window is not tightly sealed in winter, cold air can enter the apartment.
Window air conditioners can support different functions. So, the simplest and lowest-priced models work only for room cooling.
More modern models are capable of cooling, heating, and also purifying the air, making the microclimate as comfortable as possible. The developers have achieved so many functions by increasing the number of built-in filters. However, the presence of filters leads to a gradual decrease in the quality of the device due to their rapid contamination. Timely cleaning will help you here. It is quite possible to clean the window air conditioner yourself. Even cleaning the internal filters from contamination is not difficult.
Work power
Despite its compactness, the window air conditioner has quite powerful characteristics. It can operate from 1.5 to 6 kilovolts depending on the model. This characteristic contributes to a completely high-quality work no worse than that of a split system and allows you to process air in a room up to 60 sq. M. (standard apartment). Low electricity consumption contributes to savings on utility bills.
Window air conditioner. Where to install
When buying a device, the question naturally arises, in which room is it better to install an air conditioner in order to fully use its maximum capabilities. In fact, the choice of location depends only on the aesthetic external perception of the owner. The device can be installed in absolutely any window of the apartment. The power of the device will be enough for the entire room, regardless of which room the air conditioner is installed in.
Remember that installing a window air conditioner in a room with an area of \u200b\u200bmore than 60 square meters is impractical. The device is simply not able to provide an inflow of clean air for such a large volume.
Air Conditioning Care
Any thing requires careful use and timely care. Only by observing these conditions can you achieve good and long-term operation of the device. If one day you see that the air conditioner does not work at all, or does not work at full capacity, it means that no basic maintenance has been carried out. The device needs to be cleaned immediately.
- Periodic cleaning at least 2 times a month
- Monitoring the air temperature outside. Timely shutdown of the device when it is low
- When the first signs of a breakdown appear, immediately contact the service center
- Do not set the power of the device to the maximum mode all the time. Excessive loading will severely damage the device.
Cleaning is the main type of care
When purchasing a window air conditioner, you should be aware of the degree of responsibility for the condition of the device. Your device won't last even a month without proper care. In order not to throw out considerable funds to the wind, it is worthwhile to clean the filters and other parts of the air conditioner from dirt in a timely manner.
Asking the question of how to clean a window air conditioner, it is worth understanding that all further operation of the equipment depends on a high-quality cleaning procedure. That is why cleaning should be taken as responsibly as possible.
The main contamination factor is the spread of mold. The fact is that an inoperative device is a favorable environment for the development of bacteria, dust accumulation and the development of mold. Therefore, do not leave the air conditioner turned off for a long time. Cold air currents of operating equipment simply do not allow harmful substances to accumulate.
Timely cleaning of the equipment has a beneficial effect not only on the operation of the device, but also on human health. The cleaning procedure removes harmful bacteria from the device and prevents their growth.
- Various screwdrivers
- Vacuum cleaner
- Rags
- Dust collection jar
- Long Handle Cleaning Brush
- Detergent in a spray bottle
- Oil
- Cooling effect plate
- Some models use disposable filters, so you should take a replacement filter when preparing for cleaning.
Stages of cleaning a window air conditioner:
- Disconnect the device from the network
- Disassemble the window air conditioner. To do this, you should familiarize yourself with its device so as not to damage the parts
- Remove the top cover of the device
- Carefully remove and pull out the main filter. A fairly large amount of dust accumulates in the filter, so it is imperative to rinse it under running water and wipe it with a detergent with a disinfectant effect to destroy harmful bacteria (the water temperature should be no higher than 40 degrees)
- Switch on the device at minimum power. Spray detergent on it, making sure that drops of liquid get inside the conditioner.
- Wait until the device is completely dry. After that, put the filter back in place or install a replaceable one
- The front panel of the air conditioner should be treated with detergent and wiped with a soft cloth.
- The housing should also be rinsed first, then wiped with a dry cloth.
The complete cleaning procedure should be performed at least twice a week.
The external air filter of the appliance needs to be serviced once a week.
The internal heat exchanger must also be cleaned once a year:
- Remove the top panel
- Remove the air filter
- Clean the edges of the device with a vacuum cleaner or brush. Make sure the ribs are not deformed. This reduces the efficiency of the air conditioner. The edges of the ribs may be sharp, so work carefully.
Remember that the main operating modes of the air conditioner should be used in the warm season at temperatures not lower than 0 degrees Celsius.
At temperatures below 10 degrees, only the "ventilation" mode should be turned on. The operation of the compressor during this period is extremely dangerous and fraught with damage. However, some models have the ability to work in the winter time. This is indicated in the specifications of the device.
It is worthwhile to clean the case in a timely manner. In winter, snow, ice, moisture may get into the device case. Which will also lead to its breakdown.
Do you know how to clean a window air conditioner? Keeping the air conditioner clean helps it operate more efficiently. Follow the tips below to clean your air conditioner thoroughly.
Cleaning a window air conditioner
You will need:
- Screwdriver
- Dishwashing liquid
- Vacuum cleaner
- Blinds cleaner
- Rag
- Bristle brush
- Wire
How to clean a window air conditioner:
- Disconnect the device from the network.
- Remove the front panel by unscrewing it with a screwdriver or removing it from the latches, depending on the design of the air conditioner.
- Take out the filter. If the filter is replaceable or very dirty, it is recommended to replace it. If the filter can be washed, wash it with dishwashing liquid and warm water. If the filter is not washable, vacuum it thoroughly with a portable vacuum cleaner.
- Attach the appropriate attachment to the vacuum cleaner to clean all accessible surfaces.
- Let the filter dry completely before installing the filter in the air conditioner unit.
- If any of the metal curtains are bent, they must be straightened using a special tool that can be found at the hardware store.
- Move to the outer surfaces, remove dust from them, not forgetting about the grate. This will help keep the filter clean for as long as possible.
- Unscrew one of the outer panels of the device and remove any leaves and other debris that gets inside.
- If you can access the metal blades, wipe them down with a damp cloth.
- Make sure the holes in the drain pan and drain tube are not clogged. If they are clogged, clean them with a piece of wire.
- Some window units are installed in a case with an open window. If you have such a case, remove the block several times a year and remove any leaves or branches that have gathered in the case.
- The filter should be cleaned in the spring and every month the unit is used.
- The coil can only be flushed with water.
- Vacuum the coil with care. It can be bent very easily.
- Older devices may require lubrication. To find out if your air conditioner requires annual lubrication, refer to the instruction manual. If the instructions have not been preserved, contact the manufacturer or look for instructions on the Internet. Most new devices do not require lubrication.