According to experts in the HVAC industry, a window air conditioner should last approximately 12 years, perhaps longer with the proper care. But just because your AC is not operating properly is no reason to toss it out. There are several maintenance and repair steps that you can take yourself in rectifying the problem.
Debris Buildup
Depending on where you store your unit over the winter, dirt and debris has a way of finding a way into the small breather slits that your unit has. Even if you leave your unit in the window and wrap against the winter weather, there will still be dirt inside that needs to be removed. Take off the outer box and using a garden hose, spray out the leaves and dirt that have taken up residence in the back of your unit. This works for central AC units also.
Check Filters
Some window units have a washable filter that sits in the front portion of your air conditioner. Simply remove, wash with detergent and water, let air dry and place back in your unit. If your AC is fitted with special HEPA or other air cleaning filters, these should be checked weekly while using your unit in the summer months and always replaced before turning on your unit at the beginning of the season.
Drain Ports
The job of a drain port is to guide the condensed water and water vapor that collects from the evaporator coil to the condenser coil where the fan dissipates the water with air. Sometimes the drain port will get plugged into dirt or scum. Dripping water from the interior part of the AC is a good indicator that the water is not being properly funneled and could have a blockage. Running a wire hanger through the tube and removing any dirt blocking the flow of water can easily clean these ports.
AC Repair Augusta
Fan Malfunction
The fan blades inside of your unit will become caked with dirt from the air coming in and collecting. Vacuum off and wipe down with a clean cloth. Check the bolts that hold the blades in place. The vibration of the unit running will often loosen these screws. Tighten up with an Allen wrench.
No Cool Air
If your unit is not cooling as it used to, your system probably needs to be recharged. This is not a job for the unprofessional but you can check the R-22 lines before calling a technician. If the line is leaking or damaged in any way, you can replace the line yourself but adding R-22 and recharging the system is best left to a professional.
The main reason that most window AC units become inoperable is due to lack of maintenance. Get your unit out in the spring before a real need is present and make sure that it is clean, all lines are clear and your power cord is in good shape.
