It is a task that should be carried out regularly to ensure optimal performance and to avoid unpleasant inconveniences. Let’s explore together the steps for properly cleaning your air conditioner and why it is important to do so.

How to clean the air conditioner yourself?

The air conditioner has become an increasingly essential tool for cooling indoor spaces during the hot summer months. Moreover, if the installed device is also equipped with a heating function for the winter season, it becomes clear how proper cleaning further enhances the machine's efficiency, just as regular maintenance does.

While a specialised technician is the go-to person for more complex interventions and a thorough check-up, there are some tasks that can be easily performed by the user. These include cleaning and sanitising the internal unit, known as the "split," which emits the cool air.

For instance, keeping the filters free of dust helps to prevent the spread of harmful particles that could pose a risk to the health of household members, as well as preventing unpleasant odours.

The tools required for cleaning include:

• microfibre cloth;
• mild soap;
• soft-bristle brush;
• sanitising spray;
• screwdriver, if necessary, to open the split unit cover. 

The operation should be carried out with the air conditioner switched off.

• After opening the front panel of the internal unit, the filters can be removed. Most models available on the market don’t even require the use of a screwdriver to open the cover.
• Once the filters are removed, you can assess their condition. The amount of dirt and dust they collect depends on how frequently the device is used. 
• If the air conditioner is used heavily, cleaning should be performed at least once a month.
• The filters should be washed with lukewarm water and mild soap. 
• Avoid using harsh chemical products; however, a sanitising spray can be applied to eliminate mould, fungi, and other pathogens that may have accumulated.
• Once dry, the filters can be reinserted into the split.

Cleaning the filters ensures clean air circulation in a well-cooled room.

When should you clean your air conditioner?

When removing the filters, you will notice the cooling fins—components that enhance the heat exchange between the air conditioner and the room, helping to improve cooling efficiency.

The cooling fins should also be properly cleaned using a soft-bristle brush to remove dust. In cases where dust buildup is substantial, it can be wiped away with a damp cloth, taking care not to bend the fins.

A thorough cleaning of the entire unit should be performed at least twice a year: once before the summer season and again at the end of it. This includes cleaning the external unit, which houses the air conditioner’s engine and is more exposed to weather and dirt.

As for the internal unit (split) and its components, as previously mentioned, the frequency of filter cleaning and sanitisation depends on how much the air conditioner is used. If it runs for extended and frequent periods during summer, cleaning should be done at least once a month.

How to clean the external part of the air conditioner?

Cleaning the external unit is crucial for maintaining a well-functioning air conditioner and preventing issues or diminished performance. Since the external unit is typically installed in open spaces (such as a garden or balcony), over time, dirt and debris can become obstacles that affect the operation of the motor and other components.

• The user can start by using a broom or brush to remove dirt from the outer surfaces, ensuring first that the unit is disconnected from any power source to avoid the risk of electric shock. Water and soap should not be used for this task.
• For a more thorough clean, the outer cover needs to be removed. This step is more delicate and requires experience and skill, which is why it is recommended to leave this to a specialised technician. A professional can perform this task as part of regular air conditioner maintenance.
• It is important not to damage sensitive components, such as electrical cables and the fan, in the process of trying to clean hard-to-reach areas.
• To protect the external unit during long periods of inactivity, especially in winter, the user can cover it with a protective sheet.

What happens if you don’t clean the air conditioner?

Neglecting to clean your air conditioner regularly can lead to a variety of issues that affect both the efficiency of the device and the health of the household.

• When filters or other parts of the internal or external units become clogged with dust and dirt, the air conditioner struggles to cool effectively. 
• The system is forced to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, which leads to increased energy consumption.
• A lack of cleaning also accelerates wear and tear. This raises the risk of breakdowns, resulting in costly repairs or even the need for premature replacement of the unit.
• In terms of health, clogged or dirty filters can reintroduce mould, fungi, and bacteria into the air, which negatively impacts the air quality and could pose health risks.
• Additionally, unpleasant odours can develop, which are dispersed into the environment each time the air conditioner is turned on.

These undesirable situations can easily be avoided with regular and simple maintenance