With the front cover of the wall-mounted air conditioner open, the internal dust filter and air outlet are visible (AI illustration)
AC TIPS & ADVICE

Hidden pitfalls in AC cleaning you should know! Avoid these common mistakes and keep your AC running more smoothly

Contents

An air conditioner is an indispensable household appliance. When cleaning it, there are some common pitfalls to avoid in order to keep it running smoothly. This article explains these hidden pitfalls in detail.

1. No regular cleaning

The air conditioner needs regular cleaning to stay in optimal operating condition. It is recommended to carry out a basic cleaning every 3 to 6 months and a deep cleaning once a year. If the unit has not been cleaned for a long time, dust will build up inside and affect cooling performance.

2. Use harsh cleaning agents

Please follow the manufacturer's manual to choose suitable cleaning products, and avoid using corrosive cleaners so as not to damage internal components of the AC, such as the heat exchanger.

3. Ignoring filter cleaning

The dust filter can effectively remove dust and dirt from the air. If too much dust accumulates on the filter, air conditioner performance will drop and power consumption will increase. During each cleaning, be sure to remove the filter and wash it with water or an air-conditioner-specific detergent so it stays clean.

4. Cleaning with too much moisture

When cleaning an air conditioner, avoid spraying water or cleaning agents onto the electrical parts. Excessive moisture on the electrical components may cause a short circuit and even start a fire. It is enough to clean with a damp cloth. Make sure the air conditioner is completely drained after cleaning before turning it back on.

5. Unauthorized dismantling of the AC

Although dismantling an air conditioner helps with deep cleaning, without professional training there is a risk of damaging parts during removal or making mistakes during reassembly. Unless you have the relevant training or knowledge, it is not recommended to dismantle the air conditioner yourself; seek help from a professional air-conditioner cleaning technician to avoid the risk of damaging the unit.

6. Ignoring outdoor unit cleaning

If the air conditioner performance is affected by heat dissipation problems, first ensure that the outdoor unit's installation environment meets heat dissipation requirements. AC cleaning must also take into account a safe working environment.

7. Overreliance on chemical cleaners

Whether a cleaning agent is suitable depends on the specific product, model, materials, dilution and rinsing requirements. It cannot be assumed to be suitable for internal use simply because it is 'neutral' or 'natural'. Residents should not spray chemicals onto electrical controls or internal components themselves; internal cleaning should be assessed by suitable personnel who will also protect electrical parts.

8. Ignoring maintenance

Regular AC cleaning is an important part of AC maintenance, but regular inspections and servicing should not be overlooked either. Ensuring all parts of the AC are operating normally can extend its service life and reduce the chance of breakdowns.

9. Choosing an unprofessional AC cleaning company

When choosing a service company, confirm the actual dismantling and cleaning scope, surrounding protection, quotation, restoration and follow-up arrangements, and keep written records. Words such as professional or experienced are not guarantees of no damage, a complete fix, or a fixed result.

10. Ignoring cleanliness around the AC unit

The cleanliness of the surrounding area also affects air conditioner performance. Make sure air can circulate freely around the unit and avoid placing too many items nearby. Regularly cleaning the floor and walls around the air conditioner helps reduce dirt buildup inside the unit.

Conclusion:

Regular AC cleaning and maintenance can help keep the unit running properly. If maintenance is needed, it is recommended to choose a professional AC cleaning or repair team.

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