Portable air conditioners are a great and inexpensive way to keep your entire RV comfortable during the summer. However, to keep your portable air conditioner running at perfect conditions, you need to learn how to properly maintain it.
Here are some useful tips to help you better maintain your portable air conditioner and extend its life span.
Remove any filters you use in your portable air conditioners, such as carbon or HEPA filters. As a general rule, these filters should be replaced rather than cleaned, but follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance. If you need to replace them, they are readily available from various retailers, including Amazon’s Parts & Accessories section.
Portable air conditioners collect water from the air inside your RV during the cooling process, so this condensate needs to be removed. Most portable air conditioners have an internal tank to catch excess condensation, so be sure to empty it using a drain pump or hose.
Some newer models may be easier to clean. Detachable tubes and hoses can also be cleaned with a 50:50 solution of water and vinegar. When you’re done, rinse the pipes with clean water and run the air conditioner in the fan-only mode for 30-45 minutes to remove any vinegar odors and dry the unit thoroughly.
In addition to draining the water and changing the filters, you should also clean the outside of the unit every few weeks. With the device powered off, wipe the surface clean with a damp, soft cloth. Stay away from abrasives and harsh detergents as they may damage the finish.
Cleaning your portable air conditioner regularly can help keep bad odors to a minimum, but there are many more deodorizing options. You can use a few drops of essential oil or a scented disinfectant like Dettol in a vinegar and water solution. This keeps your portable air conditioner free of musty and musty odors and leaves your home smelling fresh.
A good maintenance tip for portable air conditioners is that he cleans the entire unit twice a year, at the beginning and end of the season. Before storing your portable air conditioner in a dry place out of direct sunlight, follow these simple steps:
・Be sure to drain the remaining condensed water. Remove the bottom drain plug and use a shallow pan to catch the water (be sure to replace the drain plug when you’re done). To dry excess moisture, run the device in the fan-only mode for 30 minutes before storing.
・Remove the air filter and wash it with water. Dry the air filter before installing it.
・Remove the windows install kit.
・Remove plastic hoses, window brackets, window bracket plate adapters, and hose connectors and store them with the portable air conditioner. Be careful not to bend the parts at sharp angles.