Did you know that  air conditioning absorbs all impurities from the environment during the cooling process? Or what factors such as moisture and pollution can cause a significant increase in the number of fungi, bacteria and other microorganisms harmful to health? If the answer is that you don’t know, this little tutorial will be the beginning so that from now on you can be more attentive to your air conditioner. The first step to preventing the search for relief from becoming a headache is simple:  Clean out the air conditioner .

Cleaning residential air conditioners

A properly cleaned device avoids unnecessary energy expenditure, freeing up air circulation. At home,  cleaning the air filter  is usually sufficient. You can do it yourself. Simply remove the part, wash it, and replace it after it’s completely dry. The recommendation is that this routine be performed every three months.

Now let’s see how you should clean the filter effectively step by step:

Step 1: Unlock the device

First, carefully open the front panel of your machine to access and clean the air conditioning filter. The method for removing and installing the air conditioning filter varies with the models on the market. Therefore, remember to follow the opening instructions in the device manual.

Step 2: Remove the filter

Grasp the handle of the air conditioning filter and lift it slightly to release the filter holder attachment. Always check if the model has an  activated carbon filter  (right side) or  a HEPA filter  (left side). These components must be  removed prior to washing the nylon filters.

Activated carbon filters, in particular,  cannot be washed with water . In devices of this type, the air conditioning filter must be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner.

Step 3: Wash the filter with water

Since dirt usually collects outside the filter, it is recommended to use a water jet against the flow. In other words: the dirty side of the nylon filter should not be the side where the water flow is applied, if you want the best result.

Remember to use warm or cool water, not too hot. You should also not use sandpaper or polishing pads to clean the air conditioner filter.

If necessary, use a gentle soap to help remove impurities. Chemicals should never be used to clean an air conditioner filter.

comments:

• Water above 40°C can damage the air conditioning filter and plastic parts in general.
• Do not operate the air conditioner without the filter.

Step 4 – Dry the filter

After cleaning the air conditioning filter, the washed parts should be left in the shade to dry naturally before being placed in the air conditioning unit.

If there are still wet spots even after a while, wipe them with a cloth. Be sure to check the connection after placing the filter on the air conditioner.

Air conditioning help

More detailed maintenance is required from time to time. For such cases, the ideal is to seek  cleaning services  with professionals in this field. Give preference to the brand’s certified technicians to avoid unwanted surprises without damage or loss of warranty.

The technical assistance will be responsible for cleaning the tubes and coils, as well as changing the operating gas. Prepare to do  preventive maintenance annually , though you should always be attentive to the signals that the air conditioner itself is sending. On visual inspection, note whether the amount of dust or dirt interferes, generates odors, leaks, or even cooling to be reduced.