Hot weather is just around the corner. This means it’s just about time to prepare yourself for high temperatures by performing the regular cleaning of your window air conditioners.

How To Clean A Window Air Conditioner That’s Been In Storage

When you store your air conditioner in the basement or in the attic for months, chances are you’ll find it full of dust and debris. The last thing you want is all that junk to become airborne when you turn your air conditioner on. This is why the first thing you need to do is to clean the outside of the AC unit. A damp microfiber cloth should do. Remember to remove the front grill and to wipe it down thoroughly, as well.

How To Clean Window AC Filters

Your window AC units are supposed to work hard throughout the whole summer. If you notice that the air coming out of your unit isn’t as cold as it used to be, chances are you’ve forgotten to clean the filters. Some window AC models need filter replacement every year.

You should clean the filters every month and replace disposable ones every two to three months. If you suffer from allergies, you may want to clean and replace your filters more often.

Fortunately, cleaning the filters is an easy task.

Here’s what you need:

• Dish washing soap
• Warm water
• Sponge
• Vacuum cleaner
• Old towel or cloth

Remove the filter and vacuum it thoroughly to remove all dust and dirt.
Mix water with dish soap in a bucket or in your sink.
Use the sponge to remove tough dirt and grime from the filter.
Let the tap water run and hold the filter under the water jet until the water runs clear. Rinse the filter very well to remove all traces of dish soap.
Let the filter sit on the towel for a while. After it dries, put it back into the AC unit.

Cleaning The Coils And The Coil Fins Of Your Window Air Conditioner

These parts need regular cleaning, as well. Regular window AC units have two coils. You’ll find the evaporator coils behind the filter, inside the unit. The condenser coils are outside, at the back. If needed, check out the user’s manual or search for your AC model online.

Here’s what you need:

• Your vacuum cleaner
• The brush attachment of the vacuum cleaner
• An old toothbrush you no longer use

Vacuum the coils, trying to remove as much dust and dirt as you can.
Use the toothbrush to remove stubborn dirt.

You don’t know what coil fins are? Take a look at the metal strips at the back of your AC unit. They are very thin and easy to damage, so make sure you clean them with a special fin comb. This tool is fairly inexpensive and it is the most effective method to straighten up bent coil fins. You can find it at y

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