Air conditioning3 min read
How often to clean your air conditioner
A dirty filter makes the unit cool less, use more power and smell bad.
The air conditioner filter holds back the room's dust. When it clogs, air struggles to pass, the unit works harder and the electricity bill goes up.
What you can do yourself
Every 15 days, turn the unit off, remove the filters from the indoor unit, wash them under running water with mild soap and let them dry in the shade before putting them back.
The full cleaning
Every six months, or every three if the unit runs all day, it is worth a technician's cleaning: coil, tray, drain and fan, where the filter can't reach.
Signs it's overdue
A musty smell when it starts, water dripping indoors and weak airflow are the most common signs.