How to clean the air conditioner

Regular cleaning is essential to ensure maximum performance and avoid unpleasant surprises. Let’s explore the key steps for properly cleaning your air conditioner—and why it’s so important.

How to clean the indoor unit?

The air conditioner is becoming an increasingly essential appliance for cooling our homes. Proper cleaning plays a crucial role in keeping it working efficiently, just like regular maintenance—both in summer and winter.

While a certified technician should always handle more complex procedures and full servicing, some cleaning tasks can be carried out by the user. One of these is cleaning and sanitising the indoor unit (the split), which distributes air into the room.

Keeping the filters free of dust prevents the build-up of dirt and bacteria, which can produce unpleasant odours when the system is running—and may even become harmful to health over time.

You will need:

• A soft cloth

• Mild soap

• A soft-bristle brush

• Sanitising spray

• A screwdriver (only if needed to open the unit)

Always turn off the unit before beginning.

• Open the front panel of the indoor unit and remove the filters. Most models on the market do not require a screwdriver to access the filters.
• Check their condition: the level of dust and debris will vary depending on how often the air conditioner is used. During periods of intensive use, filters should be cleaned at least once a month.
• Wash the filters with lukewarm water and mild soap—avoid harsh chemicals. You can use a sanitising spray to eliminate mould, fungi, and other pathogens.
• Once completely dry, reinstall the filters.
• The result? Fresh, clean air circulating in a perfectly cooled room.

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How often should I clean my air conditioner?

When the filters are removed, you’ll notice the cooling fins inside the unit. These internal components help improve heat exchange between the unit and the surrounding environment, enhancing cooling performance.

These fins should also be cleaned regularly. Use a soft-bristle brush to remove dust. If the build-up is heavy, gently wipe with a damp cloth—being careful not to bend or damage the fins.

A deep clean of the entire system—indoor and outdoor units—should be carried out at least twice a year: once before switching it on for the summer, and again after the season ends.

The internal unit (split) and its components should be cleaned more frequently depending on usage. If the air conditioner is used continuously, filter cleaning is recommended once a month.

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How to clean the outdoor unit?

Cleaning the outdoor unit is crucial for keeping the air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently. Since it is installed in open spaces (such as balconies or gardens), it is exposed to dirt, dust, and debris that can obstruct the motor and other key parts.

You can use a broom or brush to remove surface dirt, but first ensure the unit is disconnected from the power supply to avoid any risk of electric shock. Do not use water or soap.

For deeper cleaning, the external casing needs to be removed—this is a delicate step and best left to a qualified technician, usually done as part of scheduled maintenance.

Attempting to clean hard-to-reach parts yourself may damage sensitive components such as cables or the fan.

To protect the outdoor unit during periods of inactivity (especially in winter), cover it with a breathable waterproof sheet.

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What happens if you don’t clean the air conditioner?

Neglecting to clean your air conditioner regularly can lead to a variety of issues that affect both the efficiency of the device and the health of the household.

• When filters or other parts of the internal or external units become clogged with dust and dirt, the air conditioner struggles to cool effectively. 
• The system is forced to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, which leads to increased energy consumption.
• A lack of cleaning also accelerates wear and tear. This raises the risk of breakdowns, resulting in costly repairs or even the need for premature replacement of the unit.
• In terms of health, clogged or dirty filters can reintroduce mould, fungi, and bacteria into the air, which negatively impacts the air quality and could pose health risks.
• Additionally, unpleasant odours can develop, which are dispersed into the environment each time the air conditioner is turned on.

These undesirable situations can easily be avoided with regular and simple maintenance