How to Clean the Air Conditioner? 7 Practical Tips for Better Air Quality and Lower Energy Bills

If you, too, can’t do without cool air in the summer, knowing how to clean the air conditioner without trying to be Bob the Builder is important. Clean and maintain it regularly, and in return it will use less energy, work more efficiently and save you a lot of sweat, allowing you to sleep soundly.

So, if you’re wondering whether it’s really important to clean that little box that blows air into every corner of your home, the answer is yes, and here’s why:

• cleaner air;
• fewer unpleasant odours;
• lower energy consumption;
• better efficiency;
• longer lifespan of the unit.

Now, we know that the thought of calling a technician can get you down, and that’s exactly why you’re here. So, here are the 7 commandments of a happy air conditioner:

• You shall switch it off before cleaning it
• You shall clean the filters regularly
• You shall treat the vents and fins with care
• You shall use only suitable products
• You shall not forget the outdoor unit
• You shall check the condensate drain
• You shall clean it at the right frequency

1. Rule number one: switch everything off and work safely

Before starting any cleaning work, the number one rule is simple: switch off the air conditioner. Even better, if possible, is to disconnect the power supply at the dedicated switch. It may seem like obvious advice, but when it comes to electrical appliances, you can never be too careful. Even if you’re just wiping the surface with a cloth or removing the filters, it’s always best to work with the unit switched off and stationary. DIY is fine, but only when done sensibly: no running air conditioner, no hands near moving parts and no water sprayed directly onto the indoor unit.

2. How to clean the air conditioner filters

Filters are among the most important components of an air conditioner, although we often only remember them when the air starts to smell unpleasant. Their function is to trap dust, pollen and other particles present in the air. When they are dirty, the air conditioner may cool less effectively, consume more energy and circulate less clean air.

To clean them, simply open the front panel of the indoor unit, gently remove the filters and brush off the dust with a vacuum cleaner or a soft brush. If the product manual permits, you can wash them with lukewarm water and then leave them to dry completely before refitting them. Never refit them whilst damp: this risks encouraging mould and unpleasant odours.

It may sound obvious, but: read your air conditioner’s manual! Can’t find it? It’s often available online or on the manufacturer’s website. Just look up the product code.

3. Clean the vents, fins and surface of the split-system air conditioner

As well as the filters, the exterior of the split air conditioner also requires attention. Air vents, adjustable fins and the front panel can accumulate dust, especially after long periods of disuse. To clean them, simply use a soft, slightly damp cloth, gently wiping the visible surfaces. The fins should be handled with particular care, without forcing or bending them. It is best to avoid abrasive sponges, harsh detergents or sprays applied directly to the unit.

4. Disinfect using suitable products, without overdoing it

If you want to go the extra mile, you can use sanitising products specifically designed for air conditioners. These are tailored to this type of appliance and help reduce odours and dirt on the accessible parts. The important thing is to always follow the instructions on the packaging and, where available, those in the air conditioner manual. It is best to avoid room fragrances, general-purpose degreasers or improvised remedies: not all products are compatible with the plastics, internal components and surfaces of the split system. If the bad smell persists after cleaning, there may be deeper-seated dirt or stagnant condensation: in that case, it is best to call a technician.

5. How to clean the outdoor unit

In fixed air conditioners with an outdoor unit, the part installed outside the home is essential for the system to function properly. Although it is often overlooked, it works continuously to facilitate heat exchange and can accumulate leaves, dust, pollen, cobwebs and small debris. Before the hot season begins, it is a good idea to check that the grilles are not blocked. You can remove surface dirt with a cloth, a soft brush or a gentle broom. It is best to avoid high-pressure water jets or working on the internal parts. The outdoor unit needs to be able to breathe; it should not be subjected to a car wash.

6. Check the condensate drain

During operation, the air conditioner produces condensation, which is drained away through a dedicated drain pipe. If this pipe is blocked or not working properly, water leaks, dripping from the indoor unit or unpleasant odours may occur. It is therefore a good idea to check from time to time that the water is draining away correctly and that there are no stains on the wall, puddles or other unusual signs. Be careful, however, with DIY solutions: it is best not to insert rigid objects into the pipe or attempt invasive repairs. If the drain appears to be blocked, the safest solution is to contact a professional.

7. How often should you clean your air conditioner?

How often you clean your air conditioner depends largely on how much you use it and the environment in which it is located. During periods of heavy use, the filters should be checked and cleaned roughly every 2–4 weeks. The surface of the indoor unit can be cleaned whenever you notice dust, whilst the outdoor unit should be checked at least before summer and after periods of bad weather or strong winds.

Those who live in very dusty areas, have pets or use the air conditioner for many hours a day may need to clean it more often. In general, a little regular cleaning is much better than a major clean-up when the air conditioner is already on its last legs.

But… when should I actually call the engineer?

There are several tasks that users can carry out themselves: cleaning the filters, wiping the surface of the split unit with a cloth, checking the air vents, removing leaves or surface dust from the outdoor unit, and checking for any obvious leaks. Cleaning the air conditioner is no longer a problem. However, there are tasks that require specific expertise, such as deep cleaning of the coils, checking the refrigerant, inspecting electrical components, fans, blocked drains or unusual leaks. Unusual noises, a noticeable drop in performance and persistent bad odours are also signs that should not be ignored. In such cases, it is best to avoid DIY attempts and rely on a qualified technician.

The 5 best-selling air conditioners

Air conditioner Candy CY-2T14AOUT/CY-09RAIN-MA

The Candy CY-2T14AOUT/CY-09RAIN-MA Pura is a fixed multi-split air conditioning system designed for those who want to cool two rooms using a single outdoor unit. It includes two 9,000 BTU indoor units and offers a total cooling capacity of 14,000 BTU/h, featuring inverter technology and a heat pump for consistent performance all year round. Built-in Wi-Fi enables smart control via the hOn app, whilst the Self-Clean function helps keep the evaporator cleaner. Quiet, energy-efficient (A++/A+) and featuring a minimalist white design, it is ideal for homes, offices and modern spaces seeking convenience, control and everyday comfort without compromising on style.

Air conditioner Daikin ATXC35E/ARXC35E

The Daikin ATXC35E/ARXC35E is a 12,000 BTU/h fixed single-split air conditioner, ideal for medium-sized rooms requiring comfort, efficiency and reliability. Thanks to its inverter technology with heat pump and R32 refrigerant, it offers A++-rated cooling and A+-rated heating, whilst keeping energy consumption low. Its quiet operation, at up to 20 dBA, makes it suitable for bedrooms too. Powerful mode, Sleep mode, dehumidification, fan-only mode, automatic swing and a 24-hour timer simplify everyday use. The simple, understated white design blends easily into any home environment. Compatible with the Onecta app, it also allows for convenient optional smart control.

Air conditioner Mitsubishi Electric MXZ2F53VF32525VGKWKIT

The Mitsubishi Electric MXZ2F53VF32525VGKWKIT is a fixed dual-split air conditioning system designed to cool two rooms using a single outdoor unit. The kit includes two MSZ-LN25VGK indoor units, each with a capacity of 9,000 BTU, and an MXZ-2F53VF3 outdoor unit, featuring inverter technology, a heat pump and R32 refrigerant. Its A+++ energy rating for cooling and A++ for heating helps keep energy consumption low, whilst built-in Wi-Fi, a silver ion filter, Silent mode and a night-time programme enhance comfort and air quality. Ideal for two rooms of up to 25 m² each, it combines quiet operation, smart control and reliable performance in an elegant, discreet white design for the home.

Air conditioner Candy CY12ERKIT Aura

The Candy CY12ERKIT Aura is a 12,000 BTU/h fixed single-split air conditioner, ideal for cooling or heating rooms up to 35 m². Thanks to its inverter technology with heat pump and R32 refrigerant, it offers efficient performance with an A++ energy rating in cooling mode and A+ in heating mode. The Turbo, Sleep, energy-saving, timer and dehumidification functions make it simple and versatile to use all year round. The built-in Wi-Fi allows for convenient smart control, whilst self-diagnosis and auto-restart enhance convenience and reliability. With its compact white design and low noise levels, it is well suited to bedrooms, living rooms and small offices, even in modern domestic spaces.

Air conditioner Daikin ATXC25E/ARXC25E

The Daikin ATXC25E/ARXC25E is the more compact model compared to the ATXC35E/ARXC35E: with a cooling capacity of 9,000 BTU/h, it is ideal for bedrooms, studies and rooms up to approximately 25 m², whilst the 12,000 BTU/h model is better suited to medium-sized spaces. It features inverter technology with a heat pump, R32 refrigerant, Powerful and Sleep modes, a noise level as low as 20 dBA, and optional smart control via the Onecta app.

Of course, you’ll find many other brands and air conditioners in our catalogue, including fixed units with both indoor and outdoor units, as well as portable models, to suit all your needs.

That’s all for today! Please remember that our team is always on hand to answer any questions or offer free advice: don’t hesitate to get in touch – drop us a line here.

In the meantime, don’t miss out on the latest market updates and lots of other useful tips for you and your home:

• How to Clean the Oven in 5 Minutes: 7 Tips for Getting It Sparkling Clean Without Stress
• What Temperature Should the Fridge Be Set To: 5 Tips for Storing Food Properly
• How to Place Dining Table and Sofa: 7 Tips to Get It Right

See you next time!

The Vieffetrade Team