Air Conditioning Maintenance: Cleaning and Checking Before Winter

Air Conditioning Maintenance: Cleaning and Checking Before Winter

Proper air conditioning maintenance is essential to ensure its efficiency during the winter months.
A dirty, neglected or poorly maintained appliance can increase fuel consumption by up to 30% , reduce air quality and compromise the life of the engine.
With a few simple steps, your air conditioner can run like new for years, ensuring clean, warm air, comfort, and lower bills.

Why maintenance is so important
During the summer months, the air conditioner accumulates dust, pollen and impurities in the filters and fins of the exchanger.
If not cleaned before winter, when it is used for heating, this dirt can obstruct the passage of air, reducing efficiency and encouraging the proliferation of bacteria and mold.

A well-maintained air conditioner:

• Heats up faster
  
  

• Consume less energy
  
  

• It spreads healthier air
  
  

• Avoid bad odors
  
  

• It lasts longer
  
  

Cleaning the internal filters
The indoor unit filters are the first item to check.
Remove them following the manufacturer's instructions, vacuum them or wash them with warm water and a neutral detergent.
Do not use solvents or aggressive products: they could damage the filter surface.
Let them dry completely before reinstalling them.
In winter, if the air conditioner is left on every day, it is a good idea to clean them once a month .

Sanitizing the exchanger
After cleaning the filters, you can proceed with cleaning the exchanger (the visible metal part under the filters).
Use a specific sanitizing spray for air conditioners: it removes organic and bacterial residues, leaving the circuit clean and disinfected.
This operation must be carried out at least twice a year , before and after the winter season.

Maintenance of the external unit
The outdoor unit is the heart of the system: it houses the compressor and the heat exchanger.
Check that it is not blocked by leaves, dust or cobwebs, which can limit the airflow.
Clean with a damp cloth or soft brush, avoiding direct jets of water on the motor.
Also check that the grilles are not damaged and that the cables are in good condition.
A clean and free outdoor unit significantly improves energy efficiency.

Professional sanitization
Every two years, it is advisable to request a complete professional sanitization , which includes:

• Deep cleaning of internal and external batteries
  
  

• Refrigerant gas control
  
  

• Drain check
  
  

• Performance tests
  
  

Sanitization ensures healthier air, eliminates invisible mold, and maintains high heat pump efficiency.

Odors and mold: how to eliminate them permanently
If you notice bad odors when you turn on the air conditioner, it means that moisture or mold has accumulated inside.
To eliminate it, use specific antibacterial products that neutralize fungal colonies without damaging the electronic components.
Avoid home remedies such as using vinegar or bleach: they are corrosive and dangerous for the circuit.

End of maintenance check
After cleaning, perform a short function test:

• Turn on the air conditioner in heating mode (HEAT)
  
  

• Set 22°C
  
  

• Check that the hot air is constant and that no abnormal vibrations are felt
  
  

If you notice noise, leaks, or poor airflow, contact a qualified technician.

Properly cleaning and maintaining your air conditioner means saving energy, breathing cleaner air, and extending the life of your system.
In our e-commerce site you will find complete cleaning kits, sanitizing sprays, and original filters for every brand.
Prepare for winter the right way: an efficient air conditioner heats better and consumes less.