The Importance of Having Your Wall-Mounted Air Conditioner Cleaned

June 12th, 2020

Now that the hot summer-like weather has finally arrived, more people will be starting up their long dormant air conditioning units. If you didn’t happen to clean and service your wall-mounted AC unit in the fall as you prepared your home for winter, you’ll want to give it a good cleaning now before you get it up and running to keep you cool all summer long.

Cleaning the Indoor Unit and Filters
Before you do anything, remember to turn off the unit and disconnect the power. Safety first! Once you’ve done that, you can open the unit and clean any dust inside with a dry cloth and your vacuum. The part of the inside unit you need to pay most attention to is, of course, the filter. Depending on the kind of filter your unit has, you may be able to wash it or, if your unit uses carbon filters, they may need replacement (consult the owner’s manual for your unit for directions). If you have a filter you can wash, make sure it is completely dry before you place it back into the unit.

In either case, a clean air filter will improve the energy efficiency of your unit, provide utility cost savings, and prolong the life of your unit. Dirty air filters reduce air flow and increase the noise level of your unit, as well as reduce the effectiveness of your unit at cooling your space. For people who are sensitive to allergens, dust and mould, it is vitally important that you keep your filters clean and your unit running effectively.

Cleaning the Outdoor Unit
The outdoor unit of your wall-mounted air conditioner also needs regular cleaning. You need to make sure that no plants have grown in and around the unit, clear it of spiderwebs and any other obstructions around it. Even if you did clean the outdoor unit in the fall, giving it another light cleaning in the spring is a good idea.

Inspect the unit visually to see if any parts seem damaged or worn. When you turn on the unit for the first time, pay attention to the sounds it makes (both the indoor unit and the outdoor unit). Any sustained unusual noises may be a sign that something is wrong with the unit and may need to be checked further.

The Benefits of a Professional Cleaning and Servicing
Good maintenance of your unit should also include having it professionally serviced periodically. The frequency of a professional cleaning and servicing can vary by individual preference, from annually to only when a fault is detected. A professional will give both the indoor and outdoor units a good cleaning, but will also check the components and system to ensure everything is in good working order. They may be able to detect things like coolant leaks, wear to mechanical parts that may cause issues, and any other items that could reduce the life or effectiveness of your unit.

So as you start to prepare for summer, don’t forget to take care of those things, like your wall-mounted air conditioner, that will keep you cool and comfortable this year!