Updated at: 09-06-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

High-rise residents and those who live in residences that don’t have a strong flow of air from the central HVAC unit can greatly benefit from window units. Your home may also benefit from an additional supply of cold air. As with anything else, it has to be cleaned.

The unit requires less cleaning and maintenance than a typical residential HVAC system. Is there a way to clean a window air conditioner without having to remove it from the wall? YES!

When it comes to cleaning your air conditioner, there are a few things to keep in mind. If everything else fails, seek the advice of a trained specialist.

Why This is Important

It is necessary to clean and maintain window air conditioners, just like any other item. It’s not a good idea to do this in the dead of winter if you reside in a chilly climate. When you’re doing your spring cleaning, consider adding it to your to-do list.

Consult the Manual

Having a window air conditioner’s manual handy is a huge help. If you can’t find a manual online, you can try searching for the name and model of the device and adding “manual” to the end of the search. As each machine is unique, it will be necessary to have a manual on hand.

How to Clean a Window Air Conditioner Without Removing It? - Home Gears Lab

Supplies Needed to Clean a Window Air Conditioner Without Removing It

  1. Fill a nearby bucket or sink with warm, soapy water.
  2. With a gentle brush attachment, a vacuum cleaner
  3. Comb or soft brush that hasn’t been used in a while
  4. 2 drops of dishwashing liquid and warm water in a spray bottle
  5. Dirty or stain-prone clothing
  6. Put some newspaper under your air conditioner as a lining.
  7. A screwdriver is what you’ll need.
  8. Storage for screws and other small parts so they don’t go lost.
  9. Protection for hands from the razor-sharp edges of the fish.
  10. Comb to straighten the coils if necessary.

How frequently do I have to clean my Window AC?

You should treat your air conditioner the same as you would your other workplace or home appliances. When it comes to cleaning, it may be necessary to do so after every usage or at least once a year.

At the very least, it’s a good idea to clean your air conditioner twice a month.

Cleaning your window air conditioner on a regular basis has the following advantages:

  • Asthma and allergic responses can be avoided if the air conditioner in your workplace or home is in good working order. Your health is directly impacted by the quality of the air you breathe. Filters in air conditioners can become clogged, resulting in stale air that can aggravate respiratory conditions.
  • It’s time to clean your windows. You can save money on your electricity cost by using an air conditioner. You won’t have to run your air conditioner all day because it will chill your house faster and more efficiently if it is clean. It’s time to clean your air conditioner if you’ve noticed a decrease in performance.
  • To avoid overworking an air conditioning unit, clean and clogged filters should be replaced regularly. Air conditioners that are properly maintained and serviced will last longer, saving you money in the long run. Filters that are blocked and unclean cause the majority of the damage to modern air conditioners. You can extend the life of your equipment by cleaning it on a regular basis, which will save you money in the long run.
  • Your office or home will always be fresh and clean because of the clean air your air conditioner provides. Even if you’re in a spotless office, knowing that the air you’re breathing is polluted might cause you great anxiety. A soiled window air conditioner can ruin the appearance of a well-kept home or office. The endless flu is one of the numerous health consequences of a dirty air conditioner. Smell is another. Fresh-smelling air is made possible by well-maintained air conditioners.

Steps to Clean the Window Air Conditioner Without Removing It

1. Unplug the Unit From the Wall to Clean the Window Air Conditioner Without Removing It

You don’t want to get electrocuted because you’ll be touching the air conditioner and utilizing a spray bottle.

2. Take Off the Grill of the Air Conditioner Unit and Take Out the Filter

Filters should be replaced every 1 to 3 months if a smoker is present in the home. Check the device every 30 days to ensure sure it is not blocked or clogged with dust and grime.

After soaking in the bucket of soapy water for a while, you may be able to let it air dry. It’s also possible that it’s time to find someone new. It’s important to know the model number if you need to order a replacement. Various shapes and sizes are available, so make sure you purchase the right one for your needs.

How to Clean a Window Air Conditioner Without Removing it.

You should also keep in mind that the air filter is responsible for maintaining clean air. In a tiny window unit, you may not need to change it very often, but it’s always a good idea to check. Filter rest buttons are available on some air conditioners, alerting you when it’s time to change the filter.

3. Take the Case Off the Air Conditioning Unit

The case can be removed with a screwdriver. You’ll be able to see the drain pan and other elements that can be removed, such as the condensation drain. You can clean them by soaking them in warm, soapy water. In order to prevent mold growth in the drain pan, it is critical that it be kept clean.

4. Vacuum and Spray the Inside Parts to Clean the Window Air Conditioner Without Removing It

Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove any dust balls or other debris from the window air conditioner so you don’t have to take it apart. After that, combine two drops of dishwashing liquid dish detergent with your water.

After that, spray the inside of the machine and wipe it down with a microfiber cloth. Make careful to inspect the fins as well. You can also use a fin comb to clean and straighten the fins.

5. Clean the Condenser Coils

You can remove the covering on the back of the unit as well. Despite the fact that this cover protects the unit from the weather, it still need regular cleaning. The condenser coils are hidden beneath the protective covering.

They may be cleaned by spraying them with a mixture of water and detergent. The filth can then be washed away. A hose can be used, however detergent is preferable for a more thorough clean. Let the area dry afterward.

6. Reassemble the Air Conditioner Unit

Put the components back on as soon as they’re dry on the inside. Consult the owner’s handbook if you’re unclear how to assemble it. It’s crucial to keep the interior of your home dry to prevent the growth of mold.

Cleaning The Unit Monthly

Be prepared to invest a little time on your monthly cleaning activities. A lot of dust may accumulate within the unit, therefore you must ensure that the cleaning has been done thoroughly. This is how it’s done.

  • You’ll need to remove the panel on the front of the machine to inspect the filter. The front panel of most units is attached using screws or tabs. There is a slot in the unit where the filter is always placed. If you don’t know how to remove them, you’ll need to consult the user handbook.
  • To begin the process of removing the filter, just dip a cloth into a soap solution and remove the filter (made from using the detergent and water). Place the filters under the running tap after wiping them down with the cloth. You can use warm water if you like. Use a vacuum cleaner if the filter appears to be full of dirt.
  • Drying – Before reinstalling the filter in the unit, make sure it has dried fully. Use a cloth to remove any excess water from the surface. You should never put it back in the air conditioner while it is still wet, as this could cause it to malfunction.
  • Filters are delicate, so use caution when brushing them. Remove any remaining grime, dust, or debris with a soft-bristled brush. Let them air dry once they’ve been cleaned with soapy water. Because we do it on a weekly basis, you can, too. This isn’t a difficult task at all!
  • Replace – Do not hesitate to replace the filter if you see it is worn out. Make certain that the filters you purchase are compatible with the specific brand of air conditioner you own. Your air conditioner should be cleaned every month to ensure that it is working properly.

Cleaning Your Conditioner Daily

Window air conditioners may be cleaned without removing them if you follow these simple steps:

  • Switch off the machine after using the Hydrogen Peroxide spray bottle to fill it up with a generous amount of the solution. Spray the unit with peroxide, but don’t forget to put on a mask to avoid inhaling the chemical. After using this chemical, wash your hands thoroughly.
  • You must allow the conditioner to dry before using it. So that it can dry overnight and be ready for use the next morning, it is best to clean at night. You must check that the device has dried adequately before turning it on.
  • An in-depth cleaning of the filters may be in order if you’ve noticed a buildup of gunk. Take out the filters and spritz them with a solution to get this done.
  • You can also use a dampened towel to wipe the filters clean. The air conditioner must be allowed to dry before you can reinstall the filters. Do not turn on the air conditioner until the hydrogen peroxide has completely dried, since this could cause it to malfunction.

Benefits of Cleaning the Window Air Conditioner Unit

1. Air Filter is Clean and Does its Job

This can create breathing problems, as well as a lack of airflow. As a result, the coils become frozen. The longer the machine lasts, the better the air quality in the home is, and the quieter it is, the more money you save.

Consider purchasing an air filter that can be installed in most window air conditioners.

How to Clean a Window Air Conditioner Without Removing It? - Home Gears Lab

2. Fins Allow Air to Flow Through

Use the fin comb specified above to straighten the cooling fins after any cleanings.

3. Find Mold Issues Early

The carpet may be becoming wet, which could lead to mold growth. You need to get on top of this as soon as possible! If you can’t figure out why it’s leaking, call a professional. Mold can cause health problems if water leaks.

When to Repair or Replace?

If you and the HVAC technician have become friends and the air conditioner is older than eight to ten years, it’s probably time to replace it. Depending on the style and size, these might cost anywhere from $150 to $1000.

Other Things to Consider

The window unit should be kept in the shade if at all possible, so that it doesn’t rust as quickly.

If you won’t be using the air conditioner for an extended period of time, remove it from the window. Then, it will be protected from the weather and will live longer as a result.

Would a plug-in fan enough, or need I get an electrician to install a ceiling fan? Energy-efficient ceiling fans and plug-in fans can save you money by running for extended periods of time.

Set your ceiling fan to run the blades in the opposite direction when it’s cold outside, and you’ll help keep your house warm. If there is a draft in the house, this will show you where it is located.

You can remove the entire unit to clean it if you find it too cumbersome to clean while it is in the window. You may learn how to do it yourself or hire someone to do it for you if you prefer.

When to Call a Professional

If you’re having problems with your window air conditioner, don’t hesitate to call a professional. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the service call will cost you less than the purchase of a new appliance. Regular maintenance, on the other hand, may help you extend the life of your machine.

Is It Difficult To Clean A Window Air Conditioner?

A window air conditioner can be cleaned without having to remove it by following the recommendations provided in this article. Most householders can easily do this task. They won’t have to fork over too much money to a cleaning service.

A well-maintained air conditioner will ensure that it is always in good working order. Clean and hygienic air is the most essential benefit of an efficient cooling system.

To avoid any damage to your machine, carefully follow the instructions provided. Maintaining a clean air conditioner will also save you money on your utility bills, so trust us.

If, after cleaning, your unit still exhibits signs of dysfunction, you may want to consider calling in a professional to have a look.

Conclusion

It’s wonderful to have a window air conditioner to keep a room that is located in a hot area of the house cool. However, regular maintenance is required, as it is with any other electrical device.

Fortunately, the window air conditioner unit may be cleaned without having to remove it from the window as described above. In the event that you have questions or concerns about your window air conditioner, please feel free to contact us or leave a comment below.