Taking care of household climate appliances in a timely manner, you can maintain the efficiency of work, high level reliability, prolong service life. Initially, this concerns cleaning the home split system from dirt and dust. It is not necessary to call a professional cleaning service. Consider how to clean the air conditioner yourself, using a minimum of funds, financial costs.

What is cleaning for?

Cleaning the home climate system is necessary first of all to preserve the health of residents, and only then - for quality work technology. The effect of cool air, but saturated with pathogens, does not manifest itself as quickly as the breakdown of climate equipment, an unusual smell, a leak, and the appearance of mold on the module.

The decision to clean the air conditioner is made precisely after the appearance of the above signs of a malfunction of the climate system. But this is just an extreme degree of pollution that has been accumulating for a long time, poisoning the air being driven.

If the tenants are relatively healthy, the impact of a damaged split system will not be felt immediately. It will be more difficult for asthmatics, people who have problems with the respiratory system, cardiovascular diseases - they will quickly feel the difference in the operation of dirty equipment.

To prevent an extreme degree of the situation, it is necessary to regularly clean the entire climate system as a whole. This will help maintain the health of people living in the apartment, extend the life of electrical mechanisms, and create optimal microclimatic conditions every day.

How often should you clean your home air conditioner?

The frequency of cleaning a split system is determined by many factors. If we talk about the external module, once a year is enough for the normal functioning of the entire system.

Various elements of the internal module require a specific processing time period for them. So, the most frequently cleaned parts are air filters, which take on the bulk of all the debris that comes with the air. They need to be cleaned once in 1-3 months, which depends on the degree of contamination of the room itself, the characteristics of its location, etc.

Fan, heat exchanger can be cleaned less often - twice a year is enough. As a rule, experts recommend processing in the spring before active use. summer period and late autumn, before the onset of winter frosts.

If the air conditioner is used under conditions of increased pollution, cleaning procedures are carried out even more often, as dust settles on the elements of the device. You need to monitor this yourself, carry out maintenance of the climate control installation in time, then it will not be difficult to clean the air conditioner at home.

What needs to be cleaned?

Household climate control equipment is subject to cleaning almost completely, to one degree or another. At the indoor module, it is necessary to process the fan, evaporator, drainage group, air filters, internal, external surfaces of the plastic case.

Processing of the outdoor unit - washing the metal case, filters, fan, condenser. Particular attention is paid to the equipment located under the visor. Birds like to settle under it, thus clogging the outer element of the system with fluff, small feathers, food residues, and other waste products.

Let's consider in more detail how to clean the air conditioner in the living space with your own hands.

How to clean the outdoor unit of the air conditioner?

Most often, the outer element is clogged with down during the flowering of poplar, street dust, sand brought there by the wind. If the house is located near the highway, on a street with active traffic, outer case block, internal parts are covered with soot, soot.

Over time, these contaminants stick to the blades of the fan, compressor, condenser in a dense layer, making it difficult for them to work. The heat exchange process is disturbed, since the adhering dirt does not allow the refrigerant to be effectively cooled. This leads to an increase in energy consumption during the normalization of work on heat transfer, wear internal details devices.

Mechanical flushing of the outdoor module of the split system is sufficient to maintain cleanliness and proper operation. Let's define a few recommendations on how to clean outdoor unit:

• Disconnect the equipment from the power supply before starting cleaning work.
• Remove the outer metal case.
• Remove large debris (feathers, fluff, leaves, small branches) with a brush, an autonomous compressor unit.
• Use a vacuum cleaner to clean fine dust deposits of hard-to-reach parts, or blow with a compressor.
• Clean fan blades.
• Rinse the lamellar condenser from dirt with a strong pressure of water, steam generator unit.
• After drying all the elements, put the module case back.
• During cleaning work, make sure that moisture does not get to the electrical unit.

How to clean the indoor unit of the air conditioner?

cleaning indoor unit requires more attention, time, a set of funds. The highlights of the process are the cleaning treatment of air filters, a fan, an evaporator, a drainage system, and the inner surface of the case. Let's consider each separately.

Air filters

They are processed most often, because they become contaminated with dust faster than other parts. They are a fine mesh with a plastic partition, they are a system of primary, coarse cleaning of incoming air. How to clean the filter in the air conditioner:

• Switch off the power supply.
• Open top plastic panel body, lock in this position.
• Carefully remove air filters.
• Clean the dust with a brush, using a vacuum cleaner.
• Rinse under running water. If necessary, soak in soapy water, after a while rinse under the tap.
• Dry completely.
• Install back after complete cleaning of the indoor unit (if any).

Fan

Most modifications of climate technology provide for a removable drum with fan blades. This allows you to rinse it separately if necessary. Cleaning sequence:

• Make sure the installation is turned off.
• Remove the front panel of the case.
• Remove the drainage container, having previously disconnected the electrical unit.
• Locate the fan retaining screw connecting it to the motor.
• Remove the screw carefully so as not to damage the evaporator.
• Clean the fan blades from dirty deposits with a soapy solution, a disinfectant.
• Dry the item.
• Treat the fan blades with an antibacterial agent that inhibits the spread of germs.
• After completing all cleaning work, install back using the reverse order.

Evaporator

Deep cleaning of the heat exchanger is carried out only by employees of a special cleaning service with the removal of the indoor unit. At home, it can only be processed superficially. Therefore, you should not clog the air conditioner, you need to clean it in a timely manner in order to avoid large financial expenses. Cleaning process:

• Check if the equipment is disconnected from the mains.
• If the front panel, the filters are previously removed, proceed to processing. If not, carefully dismantle the elements.
• Gently clean the evaporator from dust deposits from top to bottom with a long-haired brush, being careful not to damage the thin plates.
• Use the purchased antimicrobial agent according to the manufacturer's instructions. It could be foamy substance, antiseptic spray, etc.
• Dry the heat exchanger.
• Carry out a fixing disinfection treatment of parts.

drainage system

It is very important to clean this part of the split system. It accumulates a lot of moisture, which subsequently combines with dust, becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, fungal colonies. From pollution, mucus, a plug is formed that prevents the outflow of condensate, which leads to a leak from the climate device module. Purification sequence:

• Checking that there is no connection to the power supply is mandatory.
• If the panel, filters are removed, disconnect the drainage from the electrical unit.
• The drainage container is treated with soapy water, antiseptic, washed with running water.
• Rinse the drain pipe under pressure with water and an antiseptic solution.
• Dry.
• Set the parts in place.
• Inside the container, it is recommended to mix an antibacterial agent in the form of a tablet, which inhibits the further activity of pathogens.

The process of cleaning the air conditioner can be seen in the video.

The process of cleaning the air conditioner is not difficult, but requires care and accuracy. It can be carried out independently, or entrusted to professional workers. The frequency of processing must be observed in order to avoid unpleasant consequences, unforeseen financial expenses. It is necessary to clean any climate system, even equipped with a self-cleaning option.

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If earlier air conditioners were installed only in restaurants and other public places, and today this Appliances installed in almost every apartment or private house. These devices allow you to adjust the optimal microclimate and beat the sweltering summer heat. But, like any other home appliances, the air conditioner needs regular maintenance. If you want your air conditioner to work for a long time and benefit, you need to clean this device.

Here you have two options. For maintenance of air conditioners, you can use the services of specialists. A more economical and sensible solution would be do-it-yourself cleaning. It is better to learn how to clean the device yourself once than to regularly spend time and money calling the masters.

Of course, different models air conditioners have their own design features, so there may be some differences. If the design is fundamentally different from standard options, then it is better to use the factory instructions, there should be a section on caring for equipment.

Why does the air conditioner clog and why is it dangerous?

V summer time the air conditioner works almost every day and a large amount of polluted air passes through its design, and this leads to clogging of the internal and external parts of the equipment. As a result, the device starts to make noise during operation and an unpleasant odor may even appear. It is also worth considering that the air conditioner units are in contact with condensed water all the time, which means that the units must be cleaned regularly. You can handle this task on your own.

This is a simple task, but in order to properly approach the cleaning process, you need to learn the basic features of air conditioner care. When there are some changes in the operation of the music center or the microwave, it is immediately noticeable. In the case of air conditioning, everything is a little different, the changes are cumulative, and they are not entirely noticeable. True, when problems reach a critical level, it all has a bad effect on the process of cooling the air in your home.

There are several factors that directly affect the level of wear of the air conditioner and its parts, and they also lead to pollution:

1. The level of air pollution.
2. Moisture indicator.
3. Installation height of the device above the ground.

The last factor may not seem very important to you, but in fact, air quality really depends on altitude. So, devices that are at the level of the 12th floor and above collect much less dust, because there is a small concentration of it.

Also important is the peculiarity of the region. Most of the dust will be near highways, v industrial areas and near construction sites. A serious pest for home air conditioners will be poplar fluff, which settles on the outdoor radiator unit. This reduces the efficiency of heat exchange between the outer and outer parts of the device. If cleaning is not carried out in such a situation, then the temperature of the freon will increase significantly, and the load on the compressor will also increase. Needless to say, the service life of equipment in such operating conditions will not be long.

If this does not convince you that regular cleaning is needed, then it is also worth saying that even mold or fungus can appear on the filters. In a special sump, which is in the device, there is a lot of moisture, as well as dust and dirt, which are washed off the radiator. As a result, large blockages in the drain pipe may appear, through which condensate will drain. In such areas of the system, condensed water will be retained, it will not enter the sewer system, and linger on the surface of the outdoor unit. All this will begin to flow out of various holes during the operation of the air conditioner. High humidity will create good conditions for the development of fungus and other microorganisms, which can harm the health of people and pets. Such rapid reproduction of harmful bacteria will saturate the air with mold, which smells unpleasant.

Signs of pollution

If the air conditioner in the house has been installed for a long time, then it is worth doing the cleaning yourself. The following factors may indicate that you need to clean the device right now:

1. An unpleasant odor that appears during operation of the device.
2. Leakage from the inside when the air conditioner is running.
3. Extraneous sounds in the form of crackling and noise that appear when the equipment is connected to the network.
4. Inefficient air conditioner. The device simply cannot cope with the cooling of the air in the apartment or does it for a very long time.

In such a situation, prompt cleaning is needed, because if this is not done, some structural elements will have to be changed, which will entail additional financial expenses. You can call in cleaning experts or do it yourself.

How and when to clean the air conditioner

To clean the working air, all air conditioners are equipped with modern system filtration, and if it becomes clogged, the performance of the device will be significantly reduced.

Also, the air conditioner will not cope with its task, and will begin to consume more electricity. Such a device is already famous for its “voracity”, and now you will have to pay even more for electricity. Yes, and this phenomenon affects the service life of equipment badly. To avoid such troubles, it is necessary to regularly clean all parts of the device. And this should be done not only when an unpleasant odor appears, but at least 2 times during the year:

1. Before starting intensive work in the spring.
2. In autumn, when the device enters off-season mode.

With careful care of such household appliances, you will allow the air conditioner to work out its full service life, which is 7-12 years, and during the period of operation not to carry out additional repairs to the arrangement. The air conditioner consists of an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, the cleaning processes of these two parts are slightly different, and this must be taken into account.

Cleaning filters

You need to start by cleaning the filters, this is very simple to do, and in most cases it is these elements that become contaminated. Filters are installed in air conditioners in order to trap dust and other types of air pollution.

Experts advise doing such cleaning once a week, during house cleaning. But in general, the regularity of filter cleaning will depend on the frequency of use of the air conditioner. They are cleaned with a conventional vacuum cleaner, but if the dust has strongly eaten into the mesh, then this part will have to be washed.

But it should be borne in mind that you should not roughly wipe the filter in this way. You also don't need to use detergents and household chemicals another type, because it has a bad effect on the design of the filter and the indoor unit of the equipment, and it can also provoke air pollution that enters your home.

It is necessary to pay attention to another important factor that concerns warranty service. The fact is that if the device breaks down due to the fact that there was no proper maintenance, then warranty repairs will be impossible.

Cleaning the heat exchanger

It is also necessary to take care of the condition of the heat exchanger, which controls the heating of the air in a special mode of operation of the air conditioner, and also controls the cooling of the air in the summer heat. After cleaning the ventilation holes on the top cover, it is necessary to start caring for the heat exchanger.

First you need to open the cover and sweep the dust from the fins of the device. If the degree of contamination is very high, then wet cleaning can be arranged. But everything must be done very carefully so as not to damage the thin plastic plates. Cleaning of this kind should not be carried out as often as filter cleaning, once a year is enough.

Outdoor unit care

The outer part also needs to be looked after, but cleaning here will not be so frequent, it will only be necessary to flush the block once a year. The main problem, as already mentioned, is poplar fluff, and small twigs, debris particles and leaves can also clog the outdoor unit. If you do not clean the external unit, then this can lead to bad consequences. In such a case, the unit will not be able to effectively perform air conditioning, and there will be a breakdown. It should also be borne in mind that all kinds of debris after getting into the external unit will interfere with the normal process of heat transfer. The compressor under such operating conditions can simply overheat and fail.

Whole cleaning process outdoor unit is divided into several stages.

1. First you need to remove large particles of debris. They are what slow down the device. Pick up all large particles in the form of leaves, etc. You can do it by hand, no special tools are needed for this.
2. The next step is to get rid of small particles and dust. To do this, experts advise using a brush and a vacuum cleaner, which will help draw dust from hard-to-reach parts of the unit.
3. Fan blade maintenance. In order for this element to be clean, it is necessary to carefully, so as not to damage the parts, wipe the blades with a damp cloth. But you should be extremely careful, because when wet cleaning, the liquid can get on the electrical components of the air conditioner. To avoid such a nuisance, it is necessary to cover these elements with a film.
4. Radiator plates must be cleaned under a powerful pressure of water. For such purposes, you can use a hose or a small sink. If the dirt is very strong, then you can add a little detergent.

1. The last step in cleaning the outdoor unit is to wipe the inside of the unit. It must be remembered that it is necessary to assemble and connect the air conditioner to the mains only after all the elements have completely dried.

Cleaning the drainage system

If the drainage system is not periodically cleaned, the air conditioner may leak. The problem is that not only dust and dirt, but also fungus and mold are drained through a special tube. As a result, the inside of the tube can become so clogged that the liquid simply does not pass, it accumulates and flows inside. If mold gets into the tube, then harmful microorganisms will begin to spread to the radiator and the walls of the device.

There are three effective ways cleaning the drainage system:

• Simple washing with water and detergents;
• Disconnecting the tube, its subsequent flushing and blowing with air;
• Complete disassembly of the block and subsequent cleaning.

With your own hands, the easiest way to do the usual cleaning. To do this, experts advise using special fat-dissolving agents. In particular, dishwashing liquid is suitable. You should also thoroughly rinse the drain pan, because it is because of its clogging that an unpleasant odor appears.

Automatic cleaning system

The newest air conditioners are already equipped with all sorts of useful features, which help to optimally configure the equipment for work. Even more than that, some models are equipped with an automatic cleaning system. The principle of operation is very simple, the device is idling, and the air that passes through the structure will dry the internal elements.

Some air conditioners also use an ionic cleaning system. A special mechanism allows oxygen or nitrogen ions to bind to dust elements and charge them. As a result, microparticles become easy prey for the dust collector device. There is an alternative option, other air conditioners use ionized mist, a complete filtration and ionization system, this will get rid of unpleasant odors.

If the design of the device has a special sensor sensor, then the air conditioner will monitor the composition of the air, and at the right time turn on automatic cleaning. It is clear that such modern functions greatly facilitate the care of the device, because the devices themselves purify the passed air. But also do not forget that the device will not be able to remove the strainer on its own and rinse it with water.

Preparing the air conditioner for operation

In order for the air conditioner to work properly, it is necessary to properly prepare the device for the operating season:

1. We are preparing the split system for the hot season. Before the onset of heat, the masters are advised to clean the evaporator of the device and the heat exchanger. It is also necessary to conduct a test run of the air conditioner in different modes. It is worth considering that all this is not included in the warranty service, so you will have to do all the work yourself or invite an expert from special companies.

1. Preparing the device for winter period. Most modern air conditioners are designed not only for cooling, but also for heating, therefore they are also used in winter time. But the problem is that they are not designed to work in harsh winter conditions. Average temperature regime air conditioning is only -3 degrees. If the temperature drops below this mark, then this will adversely affect the operation of the compressor and ice will appear on the drainage. Such a plug will lead to the accumulation of condensate, and it will begin to flow out of the inside.

Prepare for work in winter conditions almost every device of this type is possible. Adaptation of the air conditioner provides for the installation of a special device that performs the function of heating the crankcase of the compressor and the mechanism for adjusting the speed of the outdoor unit. There is also a special, "warm" drainage.

1. For cleaning, you must use special means and tools. On the market, you can find a brush and antiseptic spray just right for this type of device. This will effectively get rid of not only dust, but also grease and other types of contaminants. Using a brush, you will remove small dirt from the air conditioner. The teeth of such a tool pass freely between the packing and do not harm the structure. A fairly functional option would be a brush with interchangeable nozzles. After cleaning, spray the surface with an antiseptic spray. Such a tool will remove even fat or resin.

1. To care for the outdoor unit, especially if you live in high-rise building better call the experts. The fact is that such cleaning requires special knowledge, and access to such a device is very difficult.
2. After the purchase and installation of the device, it is necessary to conclude a service contract.

1. The first few cleanings of equipment should be entrusted to professionals. Specialists will clean the device with a steam generator, and you will be able to observe how to properly clean certain parts, which will be useful to you in the future when cleaning yourself.
2. When there are signs of unstable operation of the air conditioner, it is necessary to turn off the device from the power supply and contact the service center.
3. In winter, you should not run the air conditioner without special adaptation devices.
4. It is necessary to follow all the rules of operation and follow the tips for maintaining air conditioners, and then the equipment will work for a long time.

• What will happen if you do not clean the filters: the air will no longer be cooled properly;
• How to wash the air conditioner filter: Grasp lower part filter and pull it up a little and then down and towards you.
• How to clean the heat exchanger
• How to clean the outdoor unit of the air conditioner

In operating mode, the split system of the air conditioner distills a large amount of uncleaned air through the filters. Dust particles in the air settle on filters and other parts of the air conditioner. Contaminants are formed, which lead to an unpleasant smell from the air diffuser and the noisy operation of the climate system.

How often should the air conditioner be cleaned?

Carry out regular preventive maintenance on your own or with the involvement of specialists if you notice:

• unpleasant and strong smell after turning on the air conditioner in one of the operating modes;
• water flows from the indoor unit during its operation;
• when turned on, a loud crackling and noise is heard.

The indoor unit of the air conditioner is cleaned twice a year during the off-season - in spring and autumn. Proper care will provide the air conditioner from seven to twelve years of proper operation with careful operation.

How to clean the air conditioner and remove unpleasant odors: step by step instructions

Step 1:

• open the top cover of the indoor unit;
• carefully pull out the clogged filter located under the front panel by lifting it from the bottom.

Step 2:

• rinse under running water;
• let it dry.

Step 3:

• turn on the air conditioner in fan (recirculation) mode;
• use an air conditioner cleaner;
• spray the contents of the bottle within the limits allowed near the air intake area. 10 - 15 min disinfectant working area air conditioner and the surface of the evaporator, creating a protective film on them;
• treat the air filter in the same way.

Step 4:

• wipe dusty blinds with a damp cloth;
• very dirty - remove and rinse with warm water.

Step 5:

• reinstall the air filter;
• close the front cover of the air conditioner.

How to clean the outdoor unit of the air conditioner?

The heat exchanger of the outdoor unit is gradually clogged with dust, dirt and poplar fluff. To prevent the compressor from overheating, it is recommended:

• remove the protective cover for effective cleaning outdoor unit;
• rinse with a hose under high pressure water.

Call a specialist from the service center for a comprehensive cleaning of the air conditioner and diagnostics possible breakdowns.

We bring to your attention a video review of the air conditioner with an ionizer.

Your air conditioner handles large amounts of unclean air every day. All dust and dirt settle on its filters, which require regular and thorough cleaning. If cleaning is not done, then dirty air with dust will again enter the room, and you will breathe it. And this is fraught with allergies and other health problems. Moreover, an uncleaned air conditioner is noisier and may emit an unpleasant odor. Experts advise to carry out preventive cleaning of the air conditioner at least twice a year before the start of the season of use. In this article we will figure out how to clean the air conditioner at home.

Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Cleaning

The frequency of cleaning the air conditioner may depend on many factors, such as:

• The degree of air pollution in the room;
• Frequency of use of the device;
• The height of the air conditioner above the ground (floor);
• Air humidity.

More frequent cleaning may be due to the fact that you have a device installed that combines the functions of air conditioning and air purification.

If the following symptoms are found, it is recommended to clean the air conditioner yourself as soon as possible:

1. The air conditioner was very noisy.
2. There was an unpleasant smell.
3. The device began to cool badly.
4. Condensation is leaking from the indoor unit.

Cleaning the indoor unit of the air conditioner

To clean the indoor unit, unplug the appliance. Carefully remove the top cover and take out the strainers. Soak them in warm water with the addition of soap and leave for a while. So the dirt accumulated over a long time is better left behind. If an unpleasant smell is felt during the operation of the air conditioner, use antiseptic and disinfectant when cleaning. This will help fight bacteria and fungi. It is recommended to clean the indoor unit at least once a month.

As for pocket filters, it is not recommended to clean them yourself. Otherwise, you will most likely have to change the entire block. Just remove and replace them with new ones.

After the filters, it is necessary to clean the rotary fan, made in the form of a roller. Since this part of the indoor unit of the air conditioner is designed to drive the cooled air from the device into the room, enough dust also settles on it. If left uncleaned for a long period of time, the fan blades can get so dirty that they stop working. For effective cleaning of a rotary fan, it is necessary to moisten the blades in a soapy solution and, turning on the device, drive air through them. After a few minutes, the device is turned off and manual cleaning is completed with a brush and soapy water.

Cleaning the heat exchanger

Cleaning the air conditioner also includes cleaning the heat exchanger, which is responsible for both heating the air in the cool season and cooling it in the summer. After you clean the vents on the top cover, proceed to clean the heat exchanger.

After opening the cover, carefully brush off the dust from the fins of the heat exchanger with a brush. When heavy pollution apply wet cleaning, but special care is needed here so as not to deform thin plates. This cleaning should be done about once a year.

Cleaning the outdoor unit of the air conditioner

The outdoor unit does not need to be cleaned as often as the indoor unit. It is enough to clean and rinse it 1-2 times a year. Most often it is clogged with poplar fluff, plant pollen, leaves, debris, small twigs. If the outdoor unit is not cleaned, then this will most likely lead to serious problems. The equipment will not be able to effectively perform the function of air conditioning, breakdown is inevitable. It is also necessary to clean the outdoor unit because the dirt that gets there interferes with the normal heat exchange in the radiator. And this, in turn, leads to its overheating and failure of the compressor.

The cleaning steps for the outdoor unit of the air conditioner include the removal of large debris. Next, clean with a brush and a vacuum cleaner. The vacuum cleaner will pull the dust out of hard-to-reach places. Then the fan blades are cleaned, for which it is better to use a damp cloth. This must be done very delicately. During wet cleaning, water may get on the electrical components of the device. To prevent this from happening, you need to cover them with plastic wrap.

Radiator plates are washed with a strong pressure of water. To do this, use a hose or a special mini-sink. If the pollution is strong, then detergents are additionally used.

In conclusion, you can wipe with a sponge inner surface block. It is important to remember that the assembly and connection of the device can only be done after all parts have completely dried.

Cleaning the drainage system

If the drainage systems are not cleaned for a long time, then the air conditioner is likely to leak. The fact is that in the drainage tubes in in large numbers not only dust and dirt accumulate, but also fungi or mold. All this can clog the pipes so much that the water outflow through them will stop and the water will go inside. The danger is also that mold from the pipes can spread to the radiator and to the walls of the case.

There are three ways to clean the air conditioner drain:

• Normal washing with water and detergents;
• Flushing the disconnected drainage with air blowing it;
• Flushing when the unit is completely disassembled.

At home, the easiest way to do regular cleaning. Fat-dissolving detergents, such as dishwashing liquid, are suitable for it. And don't forget to rinse the drain pan well, as its contamination is the main cause of bad smell.

Rules for the operation of the air conditioner

In order for the air conditioner to serve you for as long as its manufacturers promise (the service life depends on the brand and manufacturer and is 7-12 years), you must adhere to the following rules:

1. Regularly (at least once a month) clean the indoor unit of the air conditioner and wash all filters.
2. If there are any signs of a malfunction of the air conditioner, immediately turn off the device and call the service department.
3. Once a year, it is imperative to call specialists who will check the pressure of the device and refuel the air conditioner with freon. Also, experts will clean those blocks that you could not clean yourself.
4. Air conditioners with a built-in all-weather unit must never be used at an ambient temperature below 0°C.

Seasonal preparation of the air conditioner

Now you know how to clean your air conditioner at home, but that's not all there is to know about air conditioners. Along with regular cleaning twice a year, it is necessary to prepare the equipment for the start of the new season.

Preparing for the summer

Before the start of the warm season, it is imperative to clean the heat exchanger located in the external unit of the air conditioner. Also check how the equipment works in all modes. Check the operation of the fans, set them to full power. The only exception to this is high humidity air. Replace air filters if necessary. Rinse the outdoor unit thoroughly, ideally this should be done under high water pressure.

Preparing for the winter season

If the air conditioner is not equipped with an all-weather unit, then it is permissible to use it up to a temperature of minus 3 ° C. If such a unit is installed, then no more than 0оС. Turning on the device at more than low temperatures dangerous by freezing of its drainage system. If this happened, then most likely you will soon find out about it, since water will begin to flow from the indoor unit of the air conditioner. This is the condensate that was supposed to drain through the drain tube to the outside.

Adapting the air conditioner to winter may also include equipping it with a special crankcase heater in the compressor, as well as a speed controller in the outdoor unit. And if you install the so-called "warm drainage", then the air conditioner can be operated all year round at any temperature.

So, once again we recall why we need to regularly clean the air conditioner:

• A dirty air conditioner is a health hazard;
• A dirty air conditioner wastes electricity;
• Pollution reduces the resource of the split system;
• Pollution increases the risk of breakage by up to 95%.

Thus, we see that in order to clean the air conditioner with your own hands, no special skills and tools are required.

Most modern air conditioners are not limited to air cooling, but allow you to purify the air with the help of appropriate means. Such a combination is logical and the presence of antiseptics, anti-allergenic substances, stabilizers and deodorants in the device is quite natural. Naturally, every air conditioner requires regular filter cleaning. A dirty purifier will at least let the room filled with dust and harmful substances air.

How to clean the indoor unit of the air conditioner?

Of course, for such work, you can call a specialist at home, but believe me, any person has all the necessary data to carry out the cleaning on their own. To clean the indoor unit, no complicated devices are required, the main thing is to understand the principle and have at hand the appropriate instructions, such as ours.

First of all, our site ksportal.ru would like to tell you about the classification: filters are divided into pocket and mesh. The first ones are much more complicated, but the mesh ones will not be difficult to clean.

Before starting work, disconnect the appliance from the mains. Then sequentially open the lid and remove the filter itself. Take any, non-aggressive, antiseptic and rinse the filter with tap water and a sponge. Dry the filter completely, carefully assemble the device and check its operation. This is what mesh filters are good for: they can be washed repeatedly, dried in almost any conditions, etc.

Unlike mesh, pocket ones cannot be washed at all, after the quality of your air conditioner deteriorates, you will have to completely replace the filter. Replacement blocks can be found at any store. The sequence of actions here is the same, but nothing needs to be washed, and the filter is changed to a new one.

There are also complex options in which it is highly not recommended to change the filter yourself - modern hard or soft filters with a complex device. To replace, you will have to purchase a new filter unit and call the wizard to the house. Fortunately, these two points usually coincide.

During the work being carried out, pay attention to such details as the structure rubber seal and the integrity of the framework in which the block itself is installed. Perhaps some of them also need to be replaced.

Please note that Maintenance should be carried out regardless of whether you performed the cleaning yourself or not. The minimum number of visits of the master to your home is twice a year. Compliance with such standards will allow the air conditioner to comply with all the standards declared by the manufacturer.

How often should the air conditioner be cleaned?

It is not difficult to guess that the time of full operation of the filter is directly related to the cleanliness of the room. If you have a lot of dust, then you will have to clean the air conditioner more often. It is possible to calculate the time during which the filter in the air conditioner becomes dirty, empirically. Try to disassemble the device when it seems to you that the quality of its work has fallen. If the filter is clogged, try doing it earlier next time. and if clean - later. Some residences allow you not to change the filter for a whole year, but such conditions can be considered ideal - constant wet cleaning or even an accompanying air purifier.

Cleaning the outdoor unit and other components of the air conditioner

What elements need to be cleaned, along with the filter?

Flushing the filter is not a difficult job, but it is better not to touch other parts of the air conditioner without special training. Heat exchangers and radiators in air conditioners are also subject to contamination, but their condition should be entrusted to specialists. In these elements, the processes of cooling and heating the air take place - this is an important part of the device. The quality of air circulation affects the quality of its cooling, and therefore the space between the plates must be free.

Light dirt can be removed with a stiff brush. However, not only dust settles on the plates. Condensation can turn dust into a film, and fumes contain tar and grease that can damage the air conditioner over time. Gradually growing on the plates of the device, they can clog the air passage, which will lead to the burnout of the air conditioner. In addition, a small part of the fluff and wool penetrates the filter and also settles here.

The block located outside is subject to even greater contamination. This is not often remembered, but its clogging can also cause failure.

Severe pollution will require serious effort for cleaning. The difficulty is not to damage their delicate protective covering. The very nature of pollution usually requires drastic measures. Such, for example, as washing with cleaning liquids. It is not always possible to resort to them, and here special flushing fluids designed for radiators can come to your aid. Examples of such appliances are steam cleaners and powerful vacuum cleaners. The latter have a special nature of pollution and a complex design of heat transfer.

Regardless of the device and means, you must understand exactly what you are going to do and why.

Cleaning the turbine (fan) in the indoor unit
Cleaning requires not only radiators, but also fans, and especially those located in the interior. The design of modern models is arranged so that the turbine only deals with air that has already passed through the filter and radiator. Those. it requires less cleaning, and it stays clean for a long time.

Unfortunately, not all models are designed this way: in some of them, air enters the fan, regardless of the filter and air conditioner. This model has its advantages, but you need to constantly monitor its contamination. In extreme cases, due to insufficient air supply, the radiator walls may begin to freeze. As a result, the system may begin to flow.

After the blades wrap a mud coat, a putrid smell will appear in the room. Such material absorbs water well and mold and fungus appear on it. Wet accumulations of dust, hair and wool are an excellent breeding ground for microorganisms. Unpleasant fumes will not keep you waiting and will be a signal that the fan needs urgent cleaning.

More important unpleasant odors- braking of the fan during rotation. dirt build-up can lead not only to a slowdown in rotation, but also to a violation of the center balance, which will cause the device to fail. If you hear extraneous noises coming from the indoor unit, then most likely the reason is the pollution of the turbine.

Cleaning up in drainage system air conditioner
The air conditioner can also leak for another, rather banal, reason - the clogging of the drainage system. The "sewer" pipes of the air conditioner look much more presentable than their original counterparts, but they perform the same functions. Similar, respectively, the problems and methods of their solution. The accumulation of grease and dust can clog the drainage more; in some cases, a colony of fungi (dense mold) can act as a plug, etc. The reason for this is the atmosphere in the room. Most likely it contains too much dust. The reason may be too long operation of the device. Problems with the tubes are no less common: kinks in the drainage hoses, accumulation of fluid in the sags.

Despite the fact that its direct purpose is to accumulate excess dirt, the drainage pan is also prone to clogging. Excessive accumulation of moisture and dirt in it can lead to poor functioning of the device, the appearance of a corresponding smell. Where there is dirt and moisture, colonies of fungi will not keep you waiting. After they develop their population sufficiently, mold can appear on the radiator plates, and then on the walls of the device. If you do not stop this process in the bud, then disassembling the air conditioner, you will see mold not only on the radiator, but also on the walls of the case.

Popular questions about cleaning and maintaining the air conditioner in the apartment

Are there special recommendations for the use of the air conditioner and what are they related to?
Any household appliance has its own operating standards and maintenance rules - air conditioning, in this regard, is no exception. Such devices are complex structures of several modules, each of which performs its own function. Therefore, preventive care measures are diverse, but require accurate and timely execution.

Strict operating rules did not originate in empty place:

• The device is used frequently, and the operating conditions (air pollution, evaporation) are most often difficult;


• Air conditioners use refrigerant, the evaporation of which during use is an integral part of the operation of the appliance.

Continuous work device leads to the fact that all the most important elements systems. Together with the contamination of the filter and radiator, the characteristics of the device are reduced, the power will drop. In this regard, constant monitoring of the filter and indoor units is required. The volume of freon must be maintained at the desired level, and all the rules specified in the instructions must be strictly observed.

It is best to conclude a contract not only for installation, but also for the subsequent maintenance of equipment. Regular service maintenance save you a lot of problems, and the life of the air conditioner will increase significantly.

How bad are filters in air conditioners?
Filters of modern split systems are not only absolutely safe for humans, but also able to make the air favorable for health, save owners from such problems as seasonal allergies, dust allergy, etc.

Does the air conditioner need preparation for the summer season?
Without a doubt, such a device needs to be prepared for atmospheric changes. Air pollution is much higher during the warm seasons, and if you plan to actively use the air conditioner in the summer, then it will require inspection and preliminary technical preparation.

My air conditioner has stopped cooling the air, what could be the reason and how to restore the operation of the device?
Several reasons can lead to such breakdowns. Among them, the most common are: a strong freon leak, breakdowns in the compressor unit, clogging of the radiator or turbine. Whatever the specific reason, resort to self-repair not recommended, because the device has fine tuning, and many parts require careful handling. Wrong actions can cause really serious damage.

How to understand that the filter in the air conditioner has reached the limit of contamination and needs to be replaced? How often is this replacement required?
Modern models, the design of which includes an air purification unit, have an indicator showing the level of filter contamination at the current moment.

In the absence of such an indicator, manufacturers recommend a period of 1 month, as optimal time operation of one filter without purification. But replacement will be required much more often if the device is operated continuously or the air in the room is heavily polluted.

The house has a split air conditioning system. In winter, water accumulates in it. Where does it come from and what to do with the device?
Nothing bad is happening. Split systems have operating features that involve the accumulation of ice in the drainage system. The ice in the pipeline melts over time and flows into the tray or the inside of the appliance. The “warm drainage” system or self-heating of the drainage will help to avoid this.