Our air conditioners are our cooling buddies, especially in beating the warm weather in Singapore. The most common type of air conditioner we often see in households and offices is the Split Air Conditioner. However, prolonged usage of this unit without proper maintenance can cause it to perform poorly.
But here's the good news: with these 9 quick steps to clean your split air conditioner at home, you can ensure your unit runs efficiently, saving you discomfort and unexpected repair costs.
Step 1: Prep Your Split Air Conditioner
- Air conditioner unit must be dry. Set the unit to fan mode for a short while to eliminate moisture effectively. This can lead to efficient cleaning of your air con in the subsequent steps.
- Before opening up any part of your air conditioner, turn it off or disconnect from the power source. This is a simple step, but the most crucial part is that safety always comes first.
Step 2: Initial Cleaning Steps
- Place a cleaning bag beneath the inner division of the air conditioner split type. This catches dirt, dust, and drippings, ensuring a clean workspace.
- Locate the latches or clips on the front panel of your aircon.
- Gently release these to detach the panel, revealing the interior components.
- Approach with patience and care to avoid damaging any parts.
Step 3: Deep Cleaning: Filters and Fins
Air and Bacteria Filters
Identification: Recognise the long rectangular pieces inside your unit; these are your air filters. Some models also feature bacteria filters.
Cleaning: Gently remove the filters and shake off any loose dust. For a deeper clean, use a soft brush or vacuum. If they're dirty, consider washing them with mild detergent and water.
Replacement: If the filters show signs of wear or damage, it's best to replace them. Refer to the manufacturer's guidelines or user manual for specific replacement recommendations.
Cooling Fins
Understanding Their Role: Cooling fins are essential for the heat exchange process in air conditioning, helping to cool the air that circulates through the unit.
Maintenance: These fins can accumulate dust over time. Gently clean them using a soft brush or specialised fin comb. Ensure you move in the direction of the fins to prevent any damage. Regular maintenance ensures efficient cooling and prolongs the lifespan of the unit.
Step 4: Maintenance of Split Inverter Coils and Getting Rid of Moulds
Coils Maintenance
The Essence of Coils: Coils work tirelessly at the heart of your cooling system, drawing in heat and expelling it.
The Cleaning Ritual: These coils can become a magnet for dust and other particles as they operate. A regular cleanup using a handheld vacuum or a specialised cleaning solution is necessary to keep them in top shape. Before powering up the unit, ensure everything's dry.
Warding Off Mould
The Challenge with Mould: The moist conditions inside your cooling unit can sometimes welcome unwanted guests like mould, impacting the system's efficiency and indoor air quality.
The Shield of Antifungal Spray: An antifungal spray is your best ally to keep mould at bay. It not only halts mould formation but also rids the system of lingering musty smells, ensuring the breeze you get is as refreshing as a morning in the mountains.
Step 5: Keeping The Drains Clear
Flushing the Drain Lines
Why It Matters: The drain lines serve as the escape route for the condensation your unit produces. Over time, these lines can become clogged, leading to water backup.
The Flushing Technique: A pressurised flush kit is your go-to tool here. By sending a high-pressure stream through the lines, you can effectively clear blockages, ensuring smooth drainage.
The Dirty Water Dilemma
Understanding the Problem: Stagnant or dirty water in your system isn't just a sign of a clogged drain. It can also become a breeding ground for bacteria and mould, affecting the quality of air your unit produces.
Performance Impact: Dirty water can strain your system beyond air quality, reducing its efficiency and potentially leading to more significant issues. Regular drain maintenance ensures your aircon operates at its best, providing clean, cool air without hitches.
Step 6: Reassembly and Testing
Reassembling the Unit
Attention to Detail: After the thorough cleanup, it's time to put everything back in its place. Start with the air filters, ensuring they snugly fit into their designated slots.
Securing the Front: The front panel is your unit's protective shield. Carefully align it and snap it back into position, ensuring it sits flush with the rest of the unit.
The Test Run: Think of this as a dress rehearsal. Running your home air conditioner after the cleaning session helps you spot any anomalies immediately.
What to Expect: As the system kicks into gear, you should be greeted with a fresh breeze, free from musty or off-putting odours. Listen for any unusual sounds and observe the unit's performance. A smooth run indicates a job well done, while hiccups might require a second look or expert intervention.
When To Call for Professional Help?
Trust Your Instincts: While DIY maintenance can be fulfilling and cost-effective, there are moments when things might seem out of your depth. If the unit makes unusual noises, emits odd smells, or doesn't perform as it should post-cleaning, it's a clear sign to seek professional insight.
Finding the Right Expert: Many retail outlets specialising in air conditioning systems offer expert services. Whether you own an inverter aircon or another air conditioning system, these outlets often have seasoned professionals who can diagnose and address any issues.
The Value of Expertise: Remember, while there's an associated cost, relying on experts ensures your unit gets the best care, prolonging its life and ensuring optimal performance.
Key Takeaway:
Taking care of our air conditioning units goes beyond a simple task on our to-do list; it's about ensuring every inhale is crisp and refreshing. When we give our aircon the attention it needs, we're not just looking after a machine but enhancing our well-being and those tranquil summer moments.
If you're pondering about the future of your cooling solutions, it's time to explore what's new and efficient out there.
Dive into the collection of aircon units at Megafurniture. We have hand-picked air conditioner units that promise both durability and top-notch performance. So, as we gear up for warmer days, let's commit to treating our dependable air conditioners with the care they merit.
If thoughts of a home upgrade cross your mind, you know the perfect place to start is by doing some readings. Check the articles below for some essential reads!
Interior Design Singapore: Best Firms for Your Next Home Renovation
Your Ultimate Cheat Sheet to Renovation in Singapore: HDB Guidelines, Procedures & Tips
Bonus Treat: DIY Anti-Fungal Spray for your Air Conditioner
Ingredients:
Purified water: 2 cups
Natural white vinegar: 1/2 cup
Melaleuca oil (Tea tree oil): 10-15 drops
Eucalyptus or lavender oil (for a pleasant aroma): 5-7 drops
Procedure:
- Combine the purified water with the white vinegar in a container. The vinegar serves as a potent cleaner known to neutralise various microbes.
- Add the tea tree oil, renowned for its robust anti-fungal traits. If you opt for eucalyptus or lavender oil, add it for a refreshing fragrance and added microbial resistance.
- Carefully pour your concoction into an empty spray container.
- Before you start, ensure the air conditioner is deactivated and disconnected. Gently mist the solution onto potential fungal hotspots, like the coils and filters. A subtle spray is all you need.
- Let the solution settle for around 10 minutes to combat any fungal presence effectively.
- With a lint-free cloth, dab away any lingering solution. If you've sprayed the filters, allowing them to dry naturally is best.
- To keep fungal growth at bay, consider using this solution bi-weekly during high-usage periods of your air conditioner.