How to Clean AC at Home – Simple DIY Guide to Boost Cooling & Save Energy

Air conditioners work hard to keep our homes cool and comfortable, especially during the hot summer months. Over time, dust, dirt, and moisture start to collect inside the unit, which may reduce its cooling efficiency and increase electricity consumption. Hence, it is essential to clean it regularly.

So, if you are wondering how to clean AC, here is the answer: You can do it yourself! With a few simple tools and a little care, it is quite easy to clean AC filters and remove dust buildup inside the AC unit by yourself. Whether it is a split AC or a window AC, it is quite easy to do it at home with proper knowledge.

Why Cleaning Your AC Regularly Is Important

Cleaning your AC regularly is essential as it will help it work more efficiently and avoid wear and tear. Dusty ACs have compromised airflow as dust and dirt accumulate inside the AC. The AC has to work extra hard to cool the room.

• Improves efficiency- Dusty ACs are less efficient as dust accumulates inside the AC. Cleaning the AC will help it work more efficiently.
• Reduces electricity bills- A clean AC does not consume much power to maintain the desired temperatures.
• Improves air quality- A clean AC filter will not allow dust and allergens to spread inside the house.
• Prevents costly repairs- Regular cleaning of ACs will help prevent costly repairs.
• Increases AC lifespan- Regular cleaning of ACs will increase their lifespan.

Types of AC You Can Clean at Home

Most types of AC are easy to clean at home. Although it is recommended to get professional help for deep cleaning and maintenance, cleaning filters and dusting is quite easy and can be done easily at home.

Split AC

Split ACs are popular among homeowners because they are energy-efficient and do not produce too much noise. When it comes to a split AC, you should know that you are required to clean the air filters, indoor unit vents, and ensure that the outdoor unit is free from dust and debris.

Window AC

A window AC unit consists of all the components in a single unit, and this makes it easier to clean. If you want to learn how to clean a window AC unit at home, you should know that there are a few basic steps to follow when it comes to window AC unit cleaning. When it comes to a window AC unit, you should know that you are required to clean the filter, front grille, and coils.

Portable AC

A portable AC is an AC that can be moved to various rooms. It is quite simple to clean a portable AC at home, as it is accessible. It only requires cleaning the filter and vents, as well as ensuring that the exhaust hose is not blocked.

Tower AC

Tower ACs are usually freestanding and quite tall. They are commonly used in large rooms. The cleaning process for a tower AC is quite simple and only involves removing the air filter, washing it with water, and wiping the outside vents clean of dust.

Central AC (Limited Cleaning)

Central air conditioning units are usually installed in large homes. While it is not possible to clean them thoroughly, it is possible to clean or change the air filters and wipe the vents clean of dust.

Tools Required to Clean AC at Home

You don’t need any specific or special tools to clean the AC at home. Some specific tools are required, which are easily available at home are:

• Soft brush- This brush helps in cleaning the AC filter and AC vents.
• Microfiber cloth- This cloth helps in cleaning the AC and removing the dust particles.
• Vacuum cleaner- It can be helpful in cleaning the AC vents and the AC.
• Mild detergent- This helps in cleaning the AC filter.
• Spray bottle with water– It’s helpful in cleaning the AC filter and removing the dirt.
• Screwdriver- It helps in removing the AC panel or the covers.

Safety Precautions Before Cleaning AC

Safety should always be your first priority, and keeping that in mind before you start cleaning your air conditioner, there are some safety precautions that need to be taken, such as:

• Switch off the power supply- Before cleaning, it is essential to switch off the AC and remove the plug to avoid any electrical shock.
• Avoid using excess water- Excessive water can cause damage to the electrical equipment inside the AC.
• Handle filters with care- AC filters are fragile and can break if mishandled.
• Use mild cleaning solutions- AC components are made of metal and can corrode if strong cleaning solutions are used.
• Let filters dry completely- If filters are not allowed to dry completely, molds can develop inside the AC.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean AC at Home

Though it is advised that you get your AC professionally cleaned and serviced from reliable companies like NoBroker, there are a few things you can do yourself, and if you are interested in learning how to clean AC at home, you can follow the simple steps given below. 

How to Clean Split AC at Home?

If you are interested in getting to know the process of cleaning split AC at home, then most of the attention should be placed on the cleaning of indoor filters, along with the removal of dirt from the outdoor unit.

Indoor and Outdoor AC Cleaning

1. Turn Off the Power Supply- Before you start to clean AC, you should first switch it off.
2. Cleaning of Indoor Unit- The front panel should be opened, and the air filters should be removed and washed with water and soap. The filters should then be allowed to dry before they are put back.
3. Cleaning of Cooling Fins- The dust on the cooling fins and vents should be removed using a soft brush or vacuum cleaner.
4. Cleaning of Outdoor Unit- The power supply should be switched off, and leaves and dust should be removed from around the outdoor unit.
5. Cleaning of Condenser Coil- The cleaning of the condenser coil should be carried out using a soft brush or water.

How to Clean Window AC at Home?

Window air conditioners have all their components integrated into one box, which is usually fixed in a window or wall. The fact that window ACs have all their components integrated into one box means that cleaning a window AC at home is quite easy compared to other types of air conditioners.

1. Turn Off the Power Supply- Before you start to clean AC, you should first switch it off.
2. Filter Cleaning- To clean the filter, remove the front grille and pull out the filter. Wash it with water and soap.
3. Dust Removal- Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust from vents and inside the AC.
4. Cleaning of Coil- Use a vacuum cleaner to clean the coils and remove dirt.
5. Exterior Cleaning- Use a damp cloth to wipe the exterior of the AC and remove dust.

How to Clean Portable AC at Home?

Portable air conditioners are small and can be moved around, making it easy to clean them. The process of cleaning a portable air conditioner involves cleaning filters and making sure the exhaust system is dust-free.

1. Turn Off the Power Supply- Before you start the cleaning process, ensure that the portable AC is switched off and unplugged from the power source.
2. Remove the Air Filter- To remove the air filter, you need to open the back panel of the portable AC and carefully take out the air filter.
3. Clean the Filter- The next step is to clean the air filter using water and detergent to remove dust and dirt that may have accumulated on the filter.
4. Clean the Air Vents- To clean the air vents, you can use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner to remove dust from the air vents.
5. Check the Exhaust Hose- The final step is to check the exhaust hose for dust and remove any blockage that may be preventing airflow.
6. Dry and Reinstall the Filter- Once dry, the filter is ready for use in the AC.

How to Clean Tower AC at Home?

Tower AC is a type of air conditioner that is tall and freestanding. It is generally used in larger rooms. Tower AC cleaning is quite easy. All one has to do is maintain the air filter and vents.

1. Turn Off the Power Supply – The first step in cleaning the AC is to switch off the AC and disconnect it from the power supply.
2. Remove the Air Filter – The next step is to open the filter panel, which is located at the back or side of the AC, and take out the air filter.
3. Wash the Filter – The air filter must be washed with water and soap to clean it.
4. Clean the Air Vents – The air vents must be cleaned using a soft cloth or a vacuum cleaner.
5. Wipe the Exterior – The outer surface of the AC must be cleaned using a microfiber cloth, and dust must be cleaned from the AC body.
6. Dry and Reinstall the Filter – Dry the filter properly before putting it back in place.

How to Clean Central AC at Home?

Central air conditioning is a larger cooling unit that is normally installed in large houses or buildings. Although thorough cleaning can only be done by a professional, homeowners can still do some simple cleaning procedures.

1. Turn Off the Power Supply- Turn off the power supply to the central AC system.
2. Replace or Clean the Filters- Remove the filters from the vents and clean or replace them if they have accumulated a lot of dirt.
3. Cleaning the Vents and Registers- Use a vacuum cleaner to clean the vents and registers of the AC system.
4. Removing Debris from the Outdoor Unit- Remove leaves, dust, and other debris from the outdoor unit of the AC system.
5. Cleaning the Condenser Coils- Use a soft brush to clean the condenser coils of the AC system.
6. Check the Drain Line- Make sure that the AC drain line is not clogged.

How Often Should You Clean Your AC?

The frequency of cleaning depends on how frequently you are using your AC and how dirty it is. Nevertheless, there are certain basic things that you should perform regularly to ensure that it works smoothly.

AC Component	Cleaning Frequency
Air Filters	Every 2 to 4 weeks
Indoor Unit Panel	Once a month
Evaporator Coils	Every 6 months
Outdoor Unit	Every 3 to 6 months
Complete AC Servicing	Once a year

Signs Your AC Needs Cleaning

If your air conditioning is not working properly, it may be a sign that it is not cleaned.

• Weak Cooling- When your air conditioner is taking longer to cool the room, air conditioner jet cleaning helps in the removal of dirt from the air conditioner.
• Bad Smell from AC- When your air conditioner has a bad smell, this indicates dirt accumulation in the air conditioner and can be solved through air conditioner jet wash servicing.
• Dust Coming from AC Vents- Presence of dust coming from the indoor unit indicates clogged filters and coils, which need to be cleaned through jet cleaning of the AC.
• Water Leakage from AC- Leakage occurs when the drain pipes are clogged because of dirt accumulation. It can be solved through the jet wash AC service.
• Higher Electricity Bills- Dirty AC results in the consumption of more electricity, and hence the need for jet spray AC service.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning AC

While cleaning an AC at home is helpful, there are mistakes to avoid in order to avoid damaging the AC or reducing efficiency if proper care is not taken.

• Using strong chemicals – The use of strong chemicals can corrode the AC’s delicate components, which can cause damage to the AC.
• Reinstalling wet filters – If filters are put back into place while still wet, it can cause moisture buildup inside the AC, which can cause mold buildup and unpleasant odors.
• Using high-pressure water- Using high-pressure water can cause the metal fins inside the AC to bend, which can reduce efficiency as it restricts airflow.
• Ignoring the outdoor unit- Dirt, dust, and other debris may be blocking the release of heat from the outdoor unit, causing the air conditioning to work harder and use more electricity.
• Cleaning without turning off power- Trying to clean an air conditioning system without turning it off and unplugging it from its power source creates a danger of electrical shock.

DIY AC Cleaning vs Professional Servicing

While DIY methods can help in basic cleaning, professional servicing helps in thorough cleaning of the internal components.

Features	DIY Cleaning	Professional Servicing
Cost	Very low	Service charges applicable
Cleaning Depth	Only filter and panel cleaning.	Deep cleaning of coils and drainage
Tools Required	Household tools	Professional tools
Time Required	20-40 minutes	1-2 hours
Effectiveness	Only for routine maintenance.	For thorough servicing.

Tips to Keep Your AC Clean Longer

Following some of these tips can help you maintain a clean AC for a long time while ensuring its efficiency.

• Clean the filters of the AC frequently- Cleaning the filters of the AC frequently can help maintain its efficiency by preventing dust accumulation inside the AC.
• Keep the windows and doors closed- Keeping the windows and doors closed while running the AC can help prevent dust accumulation inside the AC.
• Keep your room clean frequently- Keeping the room clean can help reduce dust accumulation inside the AC.
• Get the AC serviced annually- Getting the AC serviced annually can help maintain its efficiency by ensuring thorough cleaning of the coils, drainage system, and other internal components.
• Ensure proper airflow around the outdoor AC unit- Keeping the outdoor AC unit free from leaves, debris, and other objects can help maintain its efficiency.

How NoBroker Can Help

Though basic AC cleaning can be done by yourself at home, professional AC servicing will help ensure that the internal parts of the AC are properly cleaned and that the AC is functioning at its optimal level. NoBroker can help you with professional AC servicing.

• Verified Experts- NoBroker will send you trained and background-checked experts to ensure that you get safe and reliable AC servicing.
• Transparent Pricing- All service charges are transparent, and you will know exactly what you are paying without any hidden charges.
• Deep Cleaning Service- Professionals use jet spray machines to remove tough dirt from the coils, filters, and drainage pipes of your AC.
• Quick and Easy Booking- You can easily book your AC servicing through the NoBroker app or website in just a few easy steps.
• Service Warranty- NoBroker offers a 90-day service guarantee, which ensures that any problem related to the service will be taken care of without any additional charges.
• Convenient Doorstep Service- Trained experts will come to your doorstep at the scheduled time, making the entire servicing process hassle-free.

AC Service Available Across Major Cities

We provide professional air conditioner repair near me across India’s major metropolitan cities with a quick turnaround time and expert technicians.

Cities We Serve:

• Delhi
• Mumbai
• Bangalore
• Hyderabad
• Chennai
• Pune
• Gurgaon
• Faridabad
• Noida
• Greater Noida
• Ghaziabad
• Kolkata
• Ahmedabad

How to Book NoBroker AC Services 

Booking an AC service is easy:

1. Choose Your Service: You can select your service by visiting our website or mobile app and clicking on “AC Services” in the AC Services category.
2. Select a Time Slot: You can select the date and time as per your convenience. We operate 7 days a week.
3. Technician Allocation: We will allocate a verified expert in your area and provide you with their details.
4. Inspection & Installation: The expert will arrive, inspect the location, give you a final quote for any additional accessories, and start servicing the AC.
5. Pay Securely: Once the service is completed and you are satisfied, you can pay securely through online payment or cash/UPI.

FAQ’s

1. Can I clean my AC myself at home?

Ans- Yes, you can clean some of the parts of the AC yourself at home.

2. How much does AC cleaning cost in India?

Ans- The cost of AC cleaning or servicing varies between 500 to 1500 rupees, depending upon the type of AC.

3. Can I wash the AC filter with water?

Ans- Yes, you can wash the AC filter with water.

4. How long does it take to clean an AC?

Ans- It takes 20-40 minutes to clean an AC.

5. Is it necessary to clean the AC every year?

Ans- Yes, it is necessary to clean the AC every year.

6. How do I clean my AC filter at home?

Ans- To clean the filter, wash it with water, dry it, and then put it back.

7. Does cleaning an AC improve its cooling?

Ans- Yes, it does improve the cooling of the AC.

8. Should the outdoor unit also be cleaned?

Ans- Yes, because the dust on the condenser coils can reduce the cooling efficiency and increase the power consumption.

9. Can dirty AC units harm health?

Ans- Yes, because the dust and mold on dirty AC filters can contaminate the indoor air.

10. What happens if AC filters are not cleaned?

Ans- Dirty AC filters reduce the airflow and efficiency of the AC, increasing the electricity consumption.