Some families, after purchasing an air conditioner, assume it can be used indefinitely without maintenance, unaware of the need for regular care, which ultimately affects its lifespan. In reality, just like humans, air conditioners also require regular maintenance and upkeep. The following requirements apply:
1. Regularly clean the air filter. It is generally recommended to clean it every 2-3 weeks. The steps are as follows: remove the front panel; take out the air filter; clean the air filter. Place the air filter under a tap for rinsing. Since the filter is made from plastic frames and polyester fibers, it should not be cleaned with water hotter than 40°C to avoid shrinkage or deformation. After cleaning, shake off excess water, reinsert the filter into the panel, and reinstall the air conditioner.
2. Protect the condenser and evaporator fins. The condenser and evaporator fins are made by inserting 0.15mm aluminum sheets into copper tubes and expanding them. They are easily damaged by impacts. If the fins (or bent fins) are damaged, it will affect the cooling efficiency and reduce the effectiveness of refrigeration. Therefore, special attention must be paid to protecting these components.
3. Safeguard the refrigeration system. If any part of the refrigeration system or connecting pipes is damaged, it could lead to refrigerant leakage, rendering the air conditioner unable to cool.
4. Properly select fuses (保险丝). Choose the appropriate fuse specifications according to the rated current indicated in the product manual. A fuse that is too large will fail to provide protection, while one that is too small will frequently blow.
5. Operate the manual on/off function of the air conditioner with intervals of more than 2 minutes between operations. Avoid continuous on/off cycles.
6. Prevent moisture from affecting the electrical system. Moisture can cause electrical leaks. Ensure that no water enters the electrical components, especially during humid summer months or rainy seasons when extra care is needed to prevent moisture damage.
7. Regularly check the contact between the power plug and socket to ensure there is no looseness or disconnection.
8. Pay attention to the operating sound of the air conditioner. If abnormal noises such as metal clanging, motor humming, or casing vibrations are heard during operation, immediately turn off the air conditioner and inspect the cause. Do not blindly continue using it to avoid further damage.
9. Regularly wipe the outer surface of the air conditioner, particularly the panel, to keep it clean. Every six months, use a long-bristled brush to clean the dust off the outdoor cooler. Annually, remove the core unit and add an appropriate amount of lubricating oil to the bearings of the fan motor. The refrigeration system does not need special treatment, but any external dirt or grime should be removed.
10. For water-cooled air conditioners, do not shut off the water supply when the refrigeration system is in operation. For outdoor air-cooled condensers, clean the dust every 1-2 months. During winter shutdowns, drain any remaining water from the water-cooled condenser to prevent freezing and cracking.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can help extend the life and efficiency of your air conditioning unit.