It’s beginning to warm up, which is also the time when homeowners lug out their portable A/C units that have been in storage during the colder months. Starting the summer off with a clean unit can guarantee better efficiency & healthier air distribution. This is how to clean your portable air conditioner unit!

This is a Health Task!

Going long periods without properly cleaning air conditioning units can negatively impact you and your family’s health. Anywhere that can have excess moisture can be a place for mold to form and thrive. Unmaintained units can spread mold, dust, and dirt throughout your home for you and your family to breathe in. This can lead to getting sick easier and other complications.

This is a Preventative Maintenance Task!

Not only does proper maintenance improve the life of a portable air conditioner, but it also improves the unit’s overall efficiency. Without proper care of your air conditioner, you run the risk of having to spend the money to replace it prematurely.

Tasks can be done by: Homeowner, Handyman, or Cleaning Company

How To Clean Your Portable Air Conditioner Unit | Task Steps

Step 1 – Getting Prepared

• The first thing you will want to do is locate an owner’s manual that goes along with your specific type of A/C unit.
• You’re then going to want to unplug the system while you’re working on it completely.
• To properly clean, you will need access to the internal water reservoir, the filter, and the air intake vents on the system. Some units require taking the cover off to get a good look at what areas need to be cleaned, so it’s essential to figure out if this step applies to you. If this step does apply, then now would also be the time to remove the housing from your unit and set it nearby.

Step 2 – Cleaning the unit

• First, you need to unplug the units and completely empty the internal water reservoir (if your unit has one).
• After fully emptying the internal water reservoir, plug it in and turn to fan mode, which will help it dry faster.
• (Remember to notice which way the filter fits in the unit for when you need to put it back).
• Next, remove the filter from the frame and remove loose dirt and dust particles. Tap on the filter lightly with your hands or on the side of a garbage can to discard all the particles.
• Additionally, if your unit has a reusable fiber filter, thoroughly rinse the filter or immerse the filter in warm water with a mild cleaning detergent.
• After the filters are clean, use a vacuum on the air intake vents to remove any remaining dust particles.
  • Tool List: vacuum cleaner, vacuum – attachments, bucket – medium, brush – non-abrasive
  • Supply List & Costs: dish soap, cleaning cloth – damp/wet

Step 3 – Finishing up & testing

• You can refill the internal water reservoir and place it back in place (if your unit has one).
• Once the filter is dry, place it back in the unit facing the appropriate direction.
• If you needed to remove the air conditioner’s shell/housing, quickly wipe it down before placing it back onto the unit.
• At this point, you should plug the unit again and have it run for a few minutes to make sure everything is working as it should.
• If there seems to be an issue with your portable A/C unit after cleaning, it would be a good idea to call a professional to take a look.
  • Supply List & Costs: cleaning cloth – damp/wet

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Also, check out another interesting article- How To Properly Inspect Your Basement!