Do portable air conditioners require maintenance? If so, then how do you keep them maintained?
Portable air conditioners are a great way to cool down a room when the weather is hot and humid.
Like all appliances, they require regular maintenance to function correctly. This blog post will discuss some critical tips for maintaining your portable air conditioner.
Do Portable Air Conditioners Require Maintenance?
What is a Portable Air Conditioner, and Why Should You Keep it Maintained?
A portable air conditioner (portable ac unit) is a self-contained, mobile unit that you can use to chill single rooms. They are often placed on the floor and come with an installation kit for quick set-up. Most machines also have wheels, so you can transport them from one room to another, making them a handy substitute for window units.
Without routine and informed maintenance, issues are likely to occur quickly. Maintaining your portable air conditioner unit allows you to take advantage of its comfort during the summer months while reducing the danger of breakdowns or the necessity for expensive repairs.
Clean the Air Filter Regularly and Replace it When Necessary
It will eventually wear out if you don’t replace your portable air conditioning unit filter. It will no longer be able to properly filter the air, allowing dust and contaminants into the unit. Dust clogs the rotating components, including fan motors and valves. This problem will result in a strain on the system due to reduced airflow.
How Often You Need to Clean a Filter (On Most Portable Air Conditioners)
Check them at least twice monthly (and more often during the summer) to remove any dirt or obstructions from their system.
Problems with Leaving Excess Moisture in Filter
Moulds, mildew, and bacteria are the most typical reasons for musty smells from a portable air conditioner. … water collected in your air conditioner’s carbon filter creates a humid, wet atmosphere. Mould, mildew, and germs thrive in the moist environment created by water trapped within your air conditioner.
Make Sure the Exhaust Hose is Clear and Not Clogged
With a 50-50 ratio of water and vinegar, you may also clean detachable pipes and hoses. Rinse the lines with clean water after washing them, then run the air conditioner on fan-only mode for 30-45 minutes to eliminate the vinegar scent and completely dry your unit.
Don’t Put Anything on or Around the Unit that Could Obstruct Airflow
It would help to place a portable air conditioner next to an outside window and an electrical outlet. Make sure the power cable can reach the outlet without pulling it taut. Also, ensure that the vent hose can reach the window without being stretched excessively.
You shouldn’t put anything on top of the unit, and you should keep at least a few inches of clearance around the sides to ensure proper airflow.
Don’t Use an Extension Cord with the Unit – You Should Plug it Directly Into an Outlet.
Air-conditioner cords are thick and short because air conditioners consume a lot of power. If you connect your equipment to a standard extension cord from a hardware or drug store, the plug, socket, or entire length of the cable can overheat, causing fires that can be deadly.
Is it an Absolute No, No?
If you have to use an extension lead, make sure it is a minimum of 14 gauge. Extension cords for air conditioners are usually a minimum of 14 gauge, which is considered medium duty.
Clean Regularly with a Damp Cloth and Mild Detergent
Wipe the surface of the machine with a clean, dampened cloth. Avoid spray cleaners, chemicals, ammonia, water, chlorine bleach, or abrasives to clean it as they may alter the finish. Warm water and mild detergent solution are sufficient.
It’s a Good Thing to Get a Professional Check-Up Now and Again.
If you detect that your air conditioning unit isn’t operating as efficiently as it used to, have a professional come and service your unit. Various factors can contribute to underperformance, including blocked filters and leaks.
Do Portable Air Conditioners Require Maintenance? Yes, But It’s Worth Your Time!
In conclusion, by following the above tips and carrying out proper maintenance, you will help to keep your portable air conditioner in good working order.
This maintenance will improve your indoor air quality, but it will also prolong the lifespan of your unit. If you need portable air conditioning unit maintenance done, we can help. Get in touch today.