Top 5 Aircon Cleaning Hacks (That Actually Work)

Top 5 Aircon Cleaning Hacks (That Actually Work)

Air conditioners are a lifesaver during the hot months — but let’s be honest, most of us forget about cleaning them until something goes wrong. A dusty or clogged aircon doesn’t just reduce cooling efficiency; it also leads to higher electricity bills, unpleasant odours, and even health problems caused by bacteria and mould.

At Cool and Clean, we’ve seen it all — from neglected filters to mouldy coils — and we know how much of a difference regular maintenance makes. So, if you want your unit to run smoothly, last longer, and cool better, this guide is for you.

In this post, we’ll share five proven aircon cleaning hacks that actually work — not internet myths, but practical tips backed by experience from our team of professional technicians.

Why Aircon Cleaning Matters

Before we get into the hacks, let’s understand why cleaning your air conditioner regularly is so important.

An air conditioner works by circulating air through filters, coils, and vents. Over time, dust, dirt, pet hair, and mould spores build up inside these parts. This causes:

• Poor airflow and weak cooling

• Musty smells or unpleasant odours

• Higher energy use and electricity bills

• Bacteria and mould spreading in your indoor air

• Shortened lifespan of your aircon unit

Regular cleaning helps prevent all of these problems. It’s not only about comfort — it’s about your health, savings, and air quality too.

Hack #1: Clean or Replace Your Air Filters Regularly

Let’s start with the most effective yet most ignored part of the air conditioner — the air filter.

Your air filter traps dust, pollen, and debris from the air before it enters the unit. Over time, it gets clogged, forcing your aircon to work harder.

How to Do It:

1. Turn off the power — always switch off your aircon before cleaning.

2. Open the front panel and remove the filter carefully.

3. If it’s reusable, wash it gently using lukewarm water and mild detergent.

4. Let it dry completely before placing it back.

5. If it’s too dirty or damaged, replace it entirely.

How Often to Clean:

• Every 2–4 weeks during peak usage seasons.

• Replace every 3–6 months if it’s disposable.

Pro Tip from Cool and Clean:

To reduce odours, sprinkle a small amount of baking soda on the dry filter before reinstalling it. It naturally absorbs smells and keeps your air fresh.

Why it works:
A clean filter improves airflow by up to 30%, reduces strain on the compressor, and cuts down electricity costs — it’s one of the simplest ways to make your aircon perform like new.

Hack #2: Use a Soft Brush or Vacuum for Dust Build-up

One of the easiest ways to extend your aircon’s life is to remove visible dust from both the interior and exterior vents.

Dust and debris often settle on the grille, fins, and coils, preventing proper air circulation. Using harsh materials can damage the delicate fins — so be gentle.

How to Do It:

1. Turn off and unplug your aircon.

2. Remove the outer cover carefully.

3. Use a soft brush or small vacuum with a brush attachment to remove loose dirt.

4. Wipe gently with a microfibre cloth.

5. Make sure not to bend the aluminium fins — they are fragile.

Why It Works:

When you clear away surface dust, your unit can “breathe” better. Improved airflow means faster cooling and less stress on the compressor.

Pro Tip:

After brushing, use compressed air (like the one used for keyboards) to blow out hidden dust from narrow spaces.

At Cool and Clean, our technicians use safe, low-pressure air tools to do this professionally without damaging any internal components.

Hack #3: Clean the Condenser Coils with Vinegar Solution

The condenser coils (the ones at the back or outside unit) are responsible for releasing the heat your aircon absorbs from inside. When dirt and grease coat these coils, heat transfer becomes inefficient — leading to poor cooling and increased energy usage.

You can safely clean them with a simple vinegar and water solution.

What You’ll Need:

• Spray bottle

• White vinegar

• Water

• Soft cloth or brush

Steps:

1. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle.

2. Turn off the air conditioner and unplug it.

3. Spray the solution evenly on the condenser coils.

4. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes.

5. Gently wipe away the dirt with a soft cloth or brush.

This method removes light grime and disinfects the coils naturally. For heavy build-up, professional deep cleaning is recommended.

Pro Tip from Cool and Clean:

Avoid using strong chemical sprays as they may corrode aluminium fins. Natural cleaning solutions like vinegar or mild coil cleaner are safe and effective.

Why it works:
Clean coils allow heat to escape efficiently, reducing your system’s workload and saving up to 15% on electricity.

Hack #4: Use a Foaming Coil Cleaner for Deep Cleaning

If your air conditioner hasn’t been cleaned for months (or even years), basic brushing or vinegar might not be enough. For a more thorough clean, use a foaming coil cleaner — easily available at hardware or home improvement stores.

How to Use It:

1. Power off your aircon and open the access panel.

2. Spray the foaming cleaner directly on the coils.

3. Let the foam expand and sit for about 10 minutes — it will dissolve grime and grease.

4. Rinse carefully with water or let it self-rinse if designed to do so.

5. Allow the unit to dry before switching it back on.

Safety Note:

Always follow the cleaner’s instructions and wear gloves. Avoid inhaling the spray.

Pro Tip:

Perform deep cleaning once every 6 months, especially before summer starts.

At Cool and Clean, we use eco-friendly cleaning foams that not only clean but also prevent future mould growth — keeping your aircon fresh for longer.

Why it works:
Foaming cleaners penetrate deep into the fins, removing stubborn dirt that can’t be reached manually. You’ll notice cooler air and quieter performance almost immediately.

Hack #5: Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear and Clean

Many people forget that their air conditioner’s outdoor unit (condenser) is just as important as the indoor one.

If the outdoor unit is blocked by leaves, dust, or rubbish, the aircon will struggle to release heat — leading to overheating and reduced cooling power.

How to Clean It:

1. Turn off the power.

2. Remove any leaves, weeds, or debris around the unit.

3. Use a brush or soft broom to clean the vents and fan guard.

4. Wash the exterior casing with mild soap and water.

5. Make sure there’s at least 2 feet (60 cm) of open space around the unit.

Pro Tip from Cool and Clean:

If you live near a busy road or construction site, cover your outdoor unit with a breathable mesh cover when not in use — it keeps dust out but still allows airflow.

Why it works:
A clear outdoor unit keeps air moving freely and prevents the compressor from overheating. This small step can increase cooling efficiency by up to 20%.

Bonus Hack: Use Your Aircon’s Fan Mode Before Turning It Off

Most modern air conditioners come with a fan-only mode, and using it for 10–15 minutes before shutting down helps dry out the internal components.

This prevents moisture build-up, which is a common cause of mould and bacteria inside your unit.

Why It Works:

Moisture is the enemy of clean air. By drying the system after use, you reduce the chance of musty odours and fungus growth.

At Cool and Clean, we recommend using fan mode regularly, especially in humid climates.

Signs Your Aircon Needs Professional Cleaning

Even with regular home care, some parts of your aircon need expert attention. Look out for these signs:

• Weak or uneven cooling

• Strange noises or rattling sounds

• Water leaking from the unit

• Persistent bad odours

• Ice forming on coils or vents

• Unusually high electricity bills

If you notice any of these, it’s time to call Cool and Clean for a professional aircon servicing. Our trained technicians use high-pressure steam cleaners, safe disinfectants, and specialised tools to give your air conditioner a deep, long-lasting clean.

Professional vs. DIY Aircon Cleaning

While DIY cleaning helps keep your unit in good condition, there are limits to what you can safely do yourself.

The best approach is to combine both — regular DIY maintenance between professional servicing sessions every 6–12 months.

Additional Tips to Keep Your Aircon in Top Shape

• Keep your doors and windows closed when the aircon is on.

• Avoid setting the temperature too low — 24°C is ideal for comfort and efficiency.

• Clean your remote and thermostat sensors regularly.

• Check for drain pipe clogs — blockages can cause water leaks.

• Book regular maintenance before the summer rush.

These small habits can save you hundreds of pounds (or dollars) a year in repair and electricity costs.

Conclusion

Air conditioners work hard to keep your home cool — it’s only fair that you return the favour by keeping them clean and maintained.