on new a/c units(R134A) you have to cover the thermastate in a plastic bag to protect it from cleaner ( newer thermastates are neaprime (not metal) ) and will damage the plastic thermastate which will cause a no start and will be buying a complete control head !!!
@2hatelibs1 I don't mean to sound sore, but have you read any of the other comments? I'm not a professional. Nor did I ever claim to be.
I have clearly (and repeatedly!) stated that this video is for the average homeowner who wants to clean their air conditioner and potentially improve its efficiency. I stand by everything I said in this video and urge people to think before they do.
I leave comments enabled here only because there are some folks who are grateful to have their A/C back again.
I have an older air con unit that needs this treatment. It's a 34,000 btu unit (220 volts on a dedicated circut).... It's probably the largest window unit I've ever seen... but it's used to cool the whole house (sorta, well not even close) but it's never been serviced. (wish it fit in the dish washer like your computer) anyway, this is a great video but it's gonna take three of us to get it out of the window.
@mrRhwalden Dang...that is a HUGE window air conditioner. Probably more like a "two window" air conditioner! It's certainly the largest I ever heard of.
I've gotta hand it to you--putting an air conditioner in the dishwasher...now THAT is hardcore. :-D
@uxwbill It is. I was going to replace it last summer but the largest unit I could find was like 28,000. I'm telling you, they don't build them like "Big Birtha" any more. You even look at that air conditioner and the bill goes up like 70 bucks.
@LastCynicStanding Remove your own comment if you must ... but before you do, please consider the following:
1. Comments wouldn't be moderated on this video if it weren't for the multitude of...well, there is no really polite term...people who feel the need to make pointless comments.
2. It takes me time to notice everything and respond to it.
3. The vast majority of my videos have fully open comments. Most people know how to behave themselves, but as usual the few spoil it for the many. Sorry.
lol i got scared when u put pinesol in there cause i saw a video where pinesol basically idk what to say killed the unit maybe the aluminum fins like just fell off lol
It has been 100°+ temps here in Kansas for the past month and my window a/c unit, i'd say about early to mid 90's Kenmore 5000 BTU, has been working overtime trying to cool an area a little larger than it's meant to cool. It is keeping the temp in the house down to about the lower 80's, with the help of several fans, but it has run non-stop 24/7 for about the past month. I have been changing the inside filter once every 2 weeks. Should I hose the outside with a hose with it running?
@wduane2807 I would not recommend hosing the unit down while it is running. If there is anything wrong with the internal wiring or the ground connection, you could get a nasty shock and be hurt or killed. A circuit breaker or fuse would not react to shut off the power.
You would do well to get a bigger unit if you can. It will do a better job of cooling your house, run less often and probably save you a lot of money compared to your overworked current unit. A used unit can be a good choice.
great vid..seems like something even i could do..one thing , when you place the unit back into the window,instead of a level to make sure its tilted outside,i use water..pour some water on the outside shell and make sure it flows away from the window..levels can sometimes not tell you all you need !..
right on - i am putting duct tape over that hole in about 5 minutes - but have noticed a buildup of crud is already helping me out that way by clogging the hole - and i wont drink the water....but will let the cat do what cats do.....whatever they WANT.
my a/c drops a lot of condensation - my plants love it - but should my cat drink the condensation water?
why did my window unit not have an adequate way for it to drip the condensation water? it is new and after a few days of use i could hear all the condensation water being circulated throughout the unit - a huge amount of condensation water had built up..i drilled a 1/2 hole in the a/c frame..and it dropped all the water....and the fan ran much easier and quieter. why didnt samsung do that?
@1969wareid While I don't think there is anything overly harmful about it, bacteria and moldy stuff can build up in the air conditioner and contaminate the water. A little bit of the water isn't likely to hurt, but I wouldn't give the cat a bowl of it.
That buildup of water is normal and helps the unit to work better. The fan sprays it around to help cool the compressor, condenser and other parts. Sometimes refrigerant lines are routed through it.
@fisherman3694 This video is focused on the things that an average person can do with stuff they have around the house. If you have access to coil cleaner, it should be used. But if not, you can do a fine job with dish soap or pine cleaner. Just don't use anything too aggressive.
great vid. loved the writing at start commenting on the stupid commentors that seem to come out of the wood work offering their "advice" but of course lack of thier own vid.
@bowtechgeneral Many people who have watched this video series (there is a second part as well) have been genuinely appreciative. This is intended to help the average person get all of the cooling they are paying for and as such and I believe it does a good job of that. Like you say, if someone can do a better job, they should just do it. :-)
Very good video for someone who had no idea of how to clean a window air conditioner. Thank you so much for taking the time to make the video. Sharing your wisdom is a gift to others.
i have a problem mi window ac unit has stopped working in the middle of a heat wave the fan function works and i can hear the compressor still engages bus the unit still does not cool u have any idea what it could be ?
@crackerjack5229 If the compressor is really still running, it sounds bad for the health of the refrigeration system. The refrigerant may have escaped or leaked out to the point where it can no longer work.
@uxwbill ok so i have put in a new ac unit but i have a problem thit one was working fine but wasentblowing much air so i took of the front bessel an found ice! on the intake coil thing what do i do just let it melt ,leve it running or hit it with a blo dryer plz resopnd A.S.A.P!
@crackerjack5229 Turn the unit off and let it thaw. Before you turn it back on: check the filter, make sure it's not too big for your room and check to be sure it isn't tilted too far inward.
Really helpful video. Our AC has been leaking some water into the house, so hopefully a good cleaning will fix that. I read one page that suggested pouring some bleach into the bottom to clear out any dirt, etc. that may be blocking drain holes. Do you think this is a good idea?
@emeraldorange Use a stiff wire (like that from a coat hanger) to clean the water drain hole. Also make sure the unit is not tilted too far inside. Bleach would be helpful in potentially reducing unwanted odors if the unit has any.
I have a 5200 btu unit i live in the country and there is alot of bugs so i have to clean it every 2 weeks like this and its a pain since its a 2 story farm house and the a/c unit is of course up stairs is there a way to stop those little pricks from getting in there
@garyssmallengines The only thing I could suggest would maybe be to install mesh screens over any place the bugs might get in. I've seen people do this before and it's worked reasonably well to keep bugs out.
What kind of bugs are you dealing with...any idea? Maybe something else is attracting them?
@muffintoplover2000 A fin comb works fine if you want to buy one. It's nothing more or less. The idea behind using a bladed screwdriver was to use a tool that many are likely to have.
Thanks for posting this. The only thing we will do different next time is put a plastic bag over the electronics. But our AC looks and smells like new now.
THank you so much for this video. Mine has been smelling like mold and mildew and I just knew I needed to get it cleaned like this. I just needed more info!
Your video is very helpful. Cleaning AC is something that people don't realize the importance. Only one thing that I will suggest is a differente method to clean the evaporator and condenser fins.
@spinaxchin Don't worry about it. At least you didn't say anything about fin combs! :-) Depending on exactly what you mean by simple electronic controls, it's better not to get those too wet, or if you can't avoid it, at least allow them plenty of drying time.
I was hoping that I could use a garden hose to do most of the work on my window unit. I've noticed that the unit in this video has mechanical controls, but mine has some simple electronic controls - would you recommend that it's OK to do this even with electronic controls?
Thanks for this! I've got a window unit that's pretty dirty, and I was wondering if I could use a garden hose to do most of the work, or if that would damage the unit. I guess this video answers that.
@malinko35 I would suggest removing the unit from the wall first, to avoid damaging your building. It does not hurt to clean any air conditioning system, although how much you can do varies depending upon what you have to work with.
@piper4seeformerly There is a reason why I used a screwdriver. It's the tool that an average homeowner will have. Please read some of the other comments and the video description--after two years and change, many people have made the suggestion.
@twitchy66 It certainly can, although you will have to clean it out really well. Nasty stuff can hide in out of the way places. Just don't abuse any of the refrigeration tubing or coils.
I use to pick up window units constantly ... Tear them completely down... Condenser coil clean works well on cleaning the coils properly/ cleans mold etc...
I would usually braze in my own low side / high side ports... then leak check / pull vacumm 500 microns/ Weigh in freon to factory specs... test... *sits back and opens beer*
Hi thanks for the videol! We tried it on our old AC coz it's kinda dirty, old and it's not giving enough cool. The problem is that after doing that we still have the same result. We tried asking a professional about it so he checked for leaks, if there's enough refrigerant. He found that it has and there's no leaks and the electrical components are still good. He just said that it's probably that it's been unused for years. What do you think the problem is? can you please help us :(
I have an old firgidaire window AC that I would like to install through the wall where my old one used to be. The dimensions are fine, and will fit with more than enough room. It it a good idea? Do I have to remove the shroud of the window AC? Thanks.
@biped19 As long as the unit physically fits and the wall is strong enough to support the weight, it should work. The only thing you should have to remove are the "curtains" that would facilitate its installation into a window.
You are a magician... not with ACs... I mean making riding-lawn-mower-mounted-women just DISAPPEAR!!!!! 2:48 :D Good video. Thank you for the contribution!
@BallisticPenetration That's no woman...that's the Keykeeper! (If you're new here, he's my brother and also the guy who has the keys to almost everything.)
@boodrow24m A lot of people have pointed that out now. :-)
I chose a tool that A) I had B) I felt others would be likely to have and C) will work in a pinch even if it does take longer. This guide is not aimed at the professional so much as it is the average, moderately knowledgeable air-conditioner owner who wants to make sure they are getting the cooling that they are paying for.
oh and if your fins are not fucked all the way down like his put a piece of ice on the straight fins and slide it up its amazing it is a good fix cause its fast and easy but you gotta let the ice melt a bit to ingrave the pattern in the ice
Bro, thanks so much for posting this video. My window unit has lost a lot of it's air velocity and I'm betting it's because there's dirt buildup from months of running and not being cleaned. I'll be cleaning that bad boy off this weekend. Thanks again!
Everyone, please don't use a jet spray to clean the electrical components on any unit. It's stupidity in the extreme. If you need to clean coils use oxygen free nitrogen (and chemical coil cleaner if needed). For the plastic casings, motors, housings etc, a soft brush, dry cloth and a vacuum for the difficult to reach places is usually enough. Bit of common sense (like not giving your ac a shower) is needed when doing stuff like this.
@jock101dbpe Read the other comments. You're not the first, you won't be the last. And you'll also get to know that I contest your assertions. The way some A/C units are designed, wiring is exposed to the weather. Let the unit dry, you will be fine.
You are doing this the hard way. Do not use a screwdriver or putty knife. You can buy a fin comb really cheap. Even the part stores sell them between $5 to $20. You can buy them at auto part stores and even harbor freight. Spray a lubricant like WD-40 to make it go even smoother. You can straighten at least 5 fins at a time without risking messing them up even more with a screwdriver or putty knife.
you are right though this will reduce the energy costs. There are better ways to do this.
@BGreenHVAC You have to read the other comments. You are not the first to suggest a fin comb, and you won't be the last. I don't have a problem with the suggestion, but this video has been online for a while now. I used a tool that people are likely to have around their home and it does work, even if it will take longer.
@uxwbill also one more thing it's a magnasonic works great compressor is in ship shape condition but i cannot find anything on google nor youtube about magnasonic A/C units is magnasonic not a company anymore or well known? cause i wanna find like manuals and shit to find out some stuff but i cannot
@Mooseguy15 The company could be long out of business or it might have been bought out by someone else. Maybe they never had a web site. I don't have any manuals or know where you could get them. (And yes, I know it's been a while since you made this comment. It got overlooked.)
Oxididation of the plug does cause fires for sure. I have seen it happen twice myself. Once on an electric heater and once on a drill press. Both times the wall caught fire right at the outlet.
Thank you william. I just got it. its a 1998 fedders window unit. It was in the wall of a building at my friends house. I thoght we would never get it out! But we did. It probley has not been used for about 5 years? But when I turned it on, dust flew out! But somtime mabey this week, I will wire up a gfci outlet. Also I need to replace the cord because the retards who installed it, CUT the ground prong of the plug. it still works, but i am doing it for saftey concerns. :-)
@Averythefanman Good thinking. The third plug prong is there for a real reason. I find a lot of older homes that do not have outlets with the third prong. People simply buy those adapters. I dislike this practice. Typically they have a metal hole that is supposed to ground it to the conduit. I guess it is better than nothing (as long as it actually functions as a ground). Usually they don't. I encountered this situation with an elderly woman. Her outlets showed evidence of burn marks.
I just done this to my fedders today, and I think the first time this spring and summer its going to work very well. thank you so much for all this. I can't stop watching it its so cool!
@Averythefanman Good luck. I hope it will help your air conditioner work better. Thanks for watching and do feel free to comment or send a private message.
Hey no offense my friend most people would probably hurt themselves or break there ac in the process. I make my air conditioner more efficient by running it off solar but i suppose it would need a good coil cleaning too!
@DCAIRCONEXPRT None taken. :-) This video was made in the hope that it would be helpful to reasonably capable "average" people who are capable of using hand tools without injuring or maiming themselves.
I've got another air conditioner right now that is full of mold spots. Should be interesting to see what it takes to get that one clean.
This guy's existents is a bit of a dichotomy - on the one part - if you have kids he is a great guy to teach and educate regarding the mechanic world around them. On the other hand the crap in his front yard will drive down your property values.
@Mooseguy15 It's probably just what the designers felt they ought to use--or maybe a question of the kind of compressor that was available from the lowest bidder.
I do not handle refrigerant as I am not trained or licensed to do so.
omg I cant beleive you are telling people to hose out there air conditioner.I would of chose compressed air as it is not conductive...geez man I am not arguing with the fact that it will run more efficiently but the hose thing is a little too much when dealing with an electrical appliance. Water and electricity do not mix so choose life you wont need an air conditioner if your dead!
@DCAIRCONEXPRT It actually doesn't hurt a thing. I do it to my Frigidaire all the time and no problems. It is a window A/C, and it sticks outside, so what happens when it rains? Water! As long as you are careful, you will be just fine. Believe me.
@HCVguy93 I'm not sure what this person is on about, because not only is there atmospheric water but also condensate from the cooling process. A lot of it does get into the bottom pan, and the outer fan tends to fling it around. In my good old trashpicked Carrier window A/C, the wiring loom and contacts going to the capacitor were open to the elements, facing down. I've seen some with exposed controls as well.
In any case, they've made the same comment many times here. Maybe they are trolling?
@uxwbill You are probably right, trolling. It might be that they have nothing better to do, or maybe just that they know nothing about window A/C units. BTW I also don't think I ever thanked you for this video! I have a video on my channel about cleaning my Frigidaire window A/C and I wouldn't have known how to do it without this video!
There is a wire comb that us a/c technicians use for straightening out the fins on the radiator... you might be able to find it at your hardware store.
@Epicx1984 A number of people have pointed that out, and I'm sure it's true. :-) Were I doing a lot more of these, I would probably get one of those tools.
Happy to report that cleaning the air conditioner did help a lot. Thermostat does not have to be turned up as high for the AC to do the equivalent cooling that it did before which also means that it is using less power and the compressor is turning on somewhat less frequently. This video was great. I followed exactly what you said Bill and the results were great. The air coming out of the front vent doesn't stink as bad anymore either. :) The AC has the dial controls instead which is good.
well thanks for the info i have a digital fedders ac can i still spray it down or would u not advise that cause its not cooling all that well and theres crud an inch thick in there
The AC here is 240V so I could not run it on an extension cord like you did. However, I slid it back into its chassis and I will run it tomorrow off the 240V outlet for a while on the fan after its had a chance to dry out a bit.
Well, I just cleaned the air conditioner out today. It is still sitting for a while to dry out. I will start up the fan for a while (by itself without the compressor) in the morning to finish drying everything out. I could not believe the years worth of dirt, mold, slime, gunk, etc that had built up in it. Fortunately, it has the knob type controls like yours and so those should be OK after it has dried out good for a few hours and then run the fan for a while. :)
Anyway, I will be cleaning the carrier behemoth tomorrow it appears. Not much fun. It is heavy as hell to move. Perhaps I will get my neighbor to help me lift it outside and set it on the patio to be hosed down with the nozzle and a bottle of Ajax dish detergent and a brush. :) Thanks for the video. The nasty air conditioner here has been smelling bad and making me sick! Aside from the fact that it collected a bunch of water recently but I fixed the drain hole. Time to clean it. :)
Yep, Thanks Bill for uploading this video. I saw it earlier this summer. In the house that I rent there is a 240V carrier 15000BTU air conditioner that I am not sure has ever been cleaned. I cleaned out the filter and helped a little. But then I came home tonight and turned on the fan to hear it swimming in a couple inches of water. Well the drain hole was plugged. I went outside and opened the hole with a screw driver and drained it. Now I'm going to clean it like you did! :)
I followed your advice and all went well. I could not believe how filthy the inside of my AC was! It's been running for about 4 summers. It is running better now.
why not use a fin comb to straighten the fins? And in a pinch I cut the large ends off a small hair comb and use that.
Also, this is how I cleaned my window unit with the digital controls, and a drop or to did get in the controls and mess it up. But I just opened up the where the board sits and blew it with a hair dryer, luckily it didn't cause a short and after drying it out it worked fine.
I enjoyed the video and learned quite a bit about cleaning my window units. I also learned what I need before cleaning two which I have ready to be taken out. Why does they seem to cool real good at first then over a month seem to cool less. The filter has been cleaned and it still don't seem to work?
To clarify - Some electronic components are not affected by water when not in use if left to dry properly, these include diodes, resistors, capacitors, transformers, IC's (although water can get trapped under them), fuses, transistors, led's, voltage regulators. Compressors are sealed, water can't hurt them! You should avoid soaking relays, switches and motors unless you are 100% sure they are dry before use. You should still make sure it's all dry before use anyway !
I did almost the same thing with my portable air con today, but I removed the relay circuit and the control panel first. Then used foam carpet cleaner sprayed onto the dirty side of fins, left to soak in then rinsed with garden hose. It all came out looking like new again and works much better and has no nasty smell any more =] Nice tutorial =]
It is a mold or bacteria. What I recommend to anyone with a home or car air conditioner is to shut the compressor off and let the fan continue to operate for a few minutes. This helps the evaporator coil dry. It will then be less attractive to bacteria or mold and the smell should stop.
Doing this can even get rid of the smell if it's been there, but it will take a while. If you do not have a while, coil cleaner or a moderate disinfecting cleaner ("Pine Cleaner") will work as shown in this vid.
@uxwbill Thanks for answering that so fast. Yes, I like the idea of Pinesol but it evaporates from the floor in a few hrs with no smell left so thought it wouldn't last in the A/C.
Also the thing about the letting the oil settle only applies to reciprocating (piston) compressors. Rotary compressors like the one it the video can be started immediately after being turned back upright. The reason is that when turned on its side or upside down the cylinder or suction muffler on a recip compressor can fill with oil and then if you try to start it with the oil still in there the piston will hit the oil and either break the reed valves or the connecting rod. Great vid BTW.
If it has control knobs the water usually won't hurt them as long as you let them dry. If it has electronic touch controls the printed circuit boards should not be allowed to get wet with tap water. The minerals in the water will stay on the board when the water evaporates and will cause enough leakage current to really mess things up. If you do get tap water on the boards rinse them off with distilled water before they dry and then leave them in the sun to dry.
Sir, You neglected to remind everyone that it is wise to place a plastic bag over the electronics IE; on and off buttons. I'll also add that if you do turn your AC on its side, wait 6 hours for the oil to return to the compressor. (same for fridges if you turn them on the side)
See the other comments regarding the controls. I'm not sure it is a big deal, they are exposed to moisture and even a little weather in their day to day operations. You have a good point about waiting for the oil to return to the compressor.
@uxwbill its a big deal in newer air conditioners that have an printed circuit board in them. The older ones with just knobs is not TOO big a deal, it's pretty hard (though not impossible) to get the switches on the older ones wet enough to cause problems. Also, make sure the top of the compressor is sealed well where the wires go in, as it is possible for water to pool up there, causing a short.
But, as scootalee kinda hit on, turning your AC on it's side is a bad thing.
I agree...when you start talking about the newest ones that have microcontroller-based controls in them, there could be a problem. (But I have thrown whole computers in the dishwasher and they've lived every time...see my videos on that).
I do maintain that if turning a compressor on its side kills it *after* letting it sit in the correct way for several hours minimum, there were already serious problems and the system was on borrowed time anyway.
@uxwbill I clean hotel air conditioners, so I do lots and lots of them. The problem with the control boards getting wet is, of course, hotels don't let them sit long enough to dry properly, an water gets under the components and shorts things out. As for tipping them on their side, I don't honestly know the interior workings of A/C compressors, but what I've been told is, if too much oil from the compressor gets in the coils, it will clog them. I do not know this for FACT though.
Lying it on the side isnt really a big deal, the unit is completely sealed. However it should be noted to let it sit upright for upwards of an hour before plugging it in and operating to take care of any coolant that may have pooled where it shouldnt have. Just like a fridge.
@scootalee I did this process and i flushed so much gunk out and left it like new, but its still not as cold as it used to be. I did turn it on its side and only waited about 2 hours. i didnt know about compressor oil. Did i damage it? (its still cold but not that freezing cold)
@305missbunny look CLOSELY at the INSIDE of the OUTSIDE fins (the fins that are usually on the outside of the window). There is a case covering these fins, and these fins usually get jammed with dust and dirt and everything, and become a solid sheet, stopping air flow from cooling those coils. in most cases you're going to need to remove that back cover so you can access the side of the coils pointing to the fan to clean those. if you can free up MOST of the coils, you'll feel a major change.
Nice vid. However, I found a way to straighten those fins. I take a small steel wire brush, and start at the top and brush down, along the fins. This makes the job go much faster.
I haven't heard of doing that before. Perhaps if I come across a junk coil, I will practice this idea and see how it goes. If it could work, it would be a BIG time saver.
Hey bill, I'm in a little bit of a predicament here and I'm wondering if you can help. I have a portable AC (much like yours) but its too wide to fit in the window. It is way too hot and I need it so I'm trying to formulate a little design. I'm going to have it sit on a platform and attatch some plywood/cardboard to the very back and lead it to the window, only the back of the AC needs to go outside right? What are the side vents for? Do they also need to be outside?
The side vents let air get in (typically) so that it can be blown out over that condenser coil on the outside. You might be OK if you can channel the air outside somehow, although this will waste some of your cooling capacity. That said, not all air conditioners work the same way, and you might find that it pulls air in the front and pushes it out the sides. No harm in trying--I just know that if I were doing this, that's how it would work for me...my life can be a comedy!
i mean your A/C is 12,000 BTU and probably newer of course than mine i mean i think mine is from the 1980's but yeah ill make a vid and send it to you
on new a/c units(R134A) you have to cover the thermastate in a plastic bag to protect it from cleaner ( newer thermastates are neaprime (not metal) ) and will damage the plastic thermastate which will cause a no start and will be buying a complete control head !!!
monsterdrumworks 2 months ago
This guy needs a fin comb.
cleanturns 2 months ago
@cleanturns Please watch the video response.
The focus of this video is the average homeowner, who probably does not own and may not want to buy a fin comb.
uxwbill 1 month ago
If I were you I'd keep my day job a condencer brush for the fin job in about half an of the chemicals on is not a good idea just washer water
2hatelibs1 2 months ago
@2hatelibs1 I don't mean to sound sore, but have you read any of the other comments? I'm not a professional. Nor did I ever claim to be.
I have clearly (and repeatedly!) stated that this video is for the average homeowner who wants to clean their air conditioner and potentially improve its efficiency. I stand by everything I said in this video and urge people to think before they do.
I leave comments enabled here only because there are some folks who are grateful to have their A/C back again.
uxwbill 2 months ago
I have an older air con unit that needs this treatment. It's a 34,000 btu unit (220 volts on a dedicated circut).... It's probably the largest window unit I've ever seen... but it's used to cool the whole house (sorta, well not even close) but it's never been serviced. (wish it fit in the dish washer like your computer) anyway, this is a great video but it's gonna take three of us to get it out of the window.
mrRhwalden 3 months ago
@mrRhwalden Dang...that is a HUGE window air conditioner. Probably more like a "two window" air conditioner! It's certainly the largest I ever heard of.
I've gotta hand it to you--putting an air conditioner in the dishwasher...now THAT is hardcore. :-D
uxwbill 3 months ago
@uxwbill It is. I was going to replace it last summer but the largest unit I could find was like 28,000. I'm telling you, they don't build them like "Big Birtha" any more. You even look at that air conditioner and the bill goes up like 70 bucks.
mrRhwalden 3 months ago
Just an FYI to all.. They sell coil combs to straighten out the coils instead of using a flat-head screw driver
4x4milo 3 months ago
What if I don't want to get to it. Can you clean mine for me? lol. Thanks for the video.
DiabloDrift 4 months ago
PERFECT!
Same kind I have!!!
AHahaha
Thanks
LeaderMfknAlan 4 months ago
rage....
just delete my comment..... censorship is not my style..... ya wimp
LastCynicStanding 5 months ago
@LastCynicStanding Remove your own comment if you must ... but before you do, please consider the following:
1. Comments wouldn't be moderated on this video if it weren't for the multitude of...well, there is no really polite term...people who feel the need to make pointless comments.
2. It takes me time to notice everything and respond to it.
3. The vast majority of my videos have fully open comments. Most people know how to behave themselves, but as usual the few spoil it for the many. Sorry.
uxwbill 5 months ago 2
@uxwbill I can appreciate all that. I used to be on the fence about things like that myself.
I think it was the abundance of things there are no polite terms for that spurred me to be so adamant. How is that for irony?
LastCynicStanding 5 months ago
That is the first MGB I have ever seen half covered by a tarp!
Usually they are covered with laundry ;p
LastCynicStanding 5 months ago
@uxwbill I'm planning on cleaning my a/c unit I have a 25,000 btu unit I was wondering if it okay to use bleach to clean the a/c coils thanks
BigKane23 5 months ago
@uxwbill I planning on cleaning my A/C unit I have 25,000 btu unit I wanted to ask is it to use bleach to clean the coils
BigKane23 5 months ago
@BigKane23 Probably, but I'd use something gentler or a coil cleaner sold for the purpose to avoid any potential issues. Better safe than sorry.
uxwbill 5 months ago
LOL Fact is .....stupid people always die first in an life or death a situation. (Survival of the fittest)... I'd bet the hillbilly's win WW-3.
VQ1whales 5 months ago
lol i got scared when u put pinesol in there cause i saw a video where pinesol basically idk what to say killed the unit maybe the aluminum fins like just fell off lol
Mooseguy15 5 months ago
Thanks for posting. Nice narration.
NaClPeter 5 months ago
It has been 100°+ temps here in Kansas for the past month and my window a/c unit, i'd say about early to mid 90's Kenmore 5000 BTU, has been working overtime trying to cool an area a little larger than it's meant to cool. It is keeping the temp in the house down to about the lower 80's, with the help of several fans, but it has run non-stop 24/7 for about the past month. I have been changing the inside filter once every 2 weeks. Should I hose the outside with a hose with it running?
wduane2807 6 months ago
@wduane2807 I would not recommend hosing the unit down while it is running. If there is anything wrong with the internal wiring or the ground connection, you could get a nasty shock and be hurt or killed. A circuit breaker or fuse would not react to shut off the power.
You would do well to get a bigger unit if you can. It will do a better job of cooling your house, run less often and probably save you a lot of money compared to your overworked current unit. A used unit can be a good choice.
uxwbill 6 months ago
great vid..seems like something even i could do..one thing , when you place the unit back into the window,instead of a level to make sure its tilted outside,i use water..pour some water on the outside shell and make sure it flows away from the window..levels can sometimes not tell you all you need !..
PorkyMoore13 6 months ago
did this now it wont turn on
please help
Dr3w1992 6 months ago
@Dr3w1992 Let it dry out, make sure you didn't plug it in too soon and somehow pop a circuit breaker or blow a fuse?
uxwbill 6 months ago
This is by far the BEST video I've seen for cleaning an air conditioner....
LillyChe1 6 months ago
right on - i am putting duct tape over that hole in about 5 minutes - but have noticed a buildup of crud is already helping me out that way by clogging the hole - and i wont drink the water....but will let the cat do what cats do.....whatever they WANT.
1969wareid 6 months ago
my a/c drops a lot of condensation - my plants love it - but should my cat drink the condensation water?
why did my window unit not have an adequate way for it to drip the condensation water? it is new and after a few days of use i could hear all the condensation water being circulated throughout the unit - a huge amount of condensation water had built up..i drilled a 1/2 hole in the a/c frame..and it dropped all the water....and the fan ran much easier and quieter. why didnt samsung do that?
1969wareid 6 months ago
@1969wareid While I don't think there is anything overly harmful about it, bacteria and moldy stuff can build up in the air conditioner and contaminate the water. A little bit of the water isn't likely to hurt, but I wouldn't give the cat a bowl of it.
That buildup of water is normal and helps the unit to work better. The fan sprays it around to help cool the compressor, condenser and other parts. Sometimes refrigerant lines are routed through it.
uxwbill 6 months ago
@fisherman3694 This video is focused on the things that an average person can do with stuff they have around the house. If you have access to coil cleaner, it should be used. But if not, you can do a fine job with dish soap or pine cleaner. Just don't use anything too aggressive.
uxwbill 6 months ago
great vid. loved the writing at start commenting on the stupid commentors that seem to come out of the wood work offering their "advice" but of course lack of thier own vid.
bowtechgeneral 6 months ago
@bowtechgeneral Many people who have watched this video series (there is a second part as well) have been genuinely appreciative. This is intended to help the average person get all of the cooling they are paying for and as such and I believe it does a good job of that. Like you say, if someone can do a better job, they should just do it. :-)
Thank you for the kind words and comment.
uxwbill 6 months ago
Very good video for someone who had no idea of how to clean a window air conditioner. Thank you so much for taking the time to make the video. Sharing your wisdom is a gift to others.
mamhere 6 months ago
i have a problem mi window ac unit has stopped working in the middle of a heat wave the fan function works and i can hear the compressor still engages bus the unit still does not cool u have any idea what it could be ?
crackerjack5229 6 months ago
@crackerjack5229 If the compressor is really still running, it sounds bad for the health of the refrigeration system. The refrigerant may have escaped or leaked out to the point where it can no longer work.
uxwbill 6 months ago
@uxwbill ok so i have put in a new ac unit but i have a problem thit one was working fine but wasentblowing much air so i took of the front bessel an found ice! on the intake coil thing what do i do just let it melt ,leve it running or hit it with a blo dryer plz resopnd A.S.A.P!
crackerjack5229 6 months ago
@crackerjack5229 Turn the unit off and let it thaw. Before you turn it back on: check the filter, make sure it's not too big for your room and check to be sure it isn't tilted too far inward.
uxwbill 6 months ago
disposable!
Dandoesac 6 months ago
omg. whats I ben misn ovr 25 years. gotta be kiddn me
Dandoesac 6 months ago
Really helpful video. Our AC has been leaking some water into the house, so hopefully a good cleaning will fix that. I read one page that suggested pouring some bleach into the bottom to clear out any dirt, etc. that may be blocking drain holes. Do you think this is a good idea?
emeraldorange 6 months ago
@emeraldorange Use a stiff wire (like that from a coat hanger) to clean the water drain hole. Also make sure the unit is not tilted too far inside. Bleach would be helpful in potentially reducing unwanted odors if the unit has any.
uxwbill 6 months ago
I have a 5200 btu unit i live in the country and there is alot of bugs so i have to clean it every 2 weeks like this and its a pain since its a 2 story farm house and the a/c unit is of course up stairs is there a way to stop those little pricks from getting in there
garyssmallengines 6 months ago
@garyssmallengines The only thing I could suggest would maybe be to install mesh screens over any place the bugs might get in. I've seen people do this before and it's worked reasonably well to keep bugs out.
What kind of bugs are you dealing with...any idea? Maybe something else is attracting them?
uxwbill 6 months ago
Im sorry I just have to ask, what is a keykeeper? A landlord?
narcoti 6 months ago
@narcoti A brother of mine who is in charge of all the keys to various things around here.
uxwbill 6 months ago
@muffintoplover2000 A fin comb works fine if you want to buy one. It's nothing more or less. The idea behind using a bladed screwdriver was to use a tool that many are likely to have.
uxwbill 6 months ago
Thanks for posting this. The only thing we will do different next time is put a plastic bag over the electronics. But our AC looks and smells like new now.
reynathedancer 6 months ago
THank you so much for this video. Mine has been smelling like mold and mildew and I just knew I needed to get it cleaned like this. I just needed more info!
Thanks again!
TheBethoc 6 months ago
its better to dis mantle your airconditioner before cleaning, that is proper acu servicing.
kenneth7748 6 months ago
"shoot some penetrating lubricant into each end of the shaft" 2:10 are you sure we are still talking about an air conditioner
55movie55 7 months ago
When i heard the accent i just closed the tab.
mattahelz 7 months ago
@mattahelz When I saw the stupid, I just banned the user.
uxwbill 7 months ago 13
@uxwbill U are Awesome sir.
steve062989 6 months ago
Your video is very helpful. Cleaning AC is something that people don't realize the importance. Only one thing that I will suggest is a differente method to clean the evaporator and condenser fins.
This system is much more efficient and better.
nyko461 7 months ago
Gah.... just read the description posted with the video regarding electrical. Ignore my previous post!
spinaxchin 7 months ago
@spinaxchin Don't worry about it. At least you didn't say anything about fin combs! :-) Depending on exactly what you mean by simple electronic controls, it's better not to get those too wet, or if you can't avoid it, at least allow them plenty of drying time.
uxwbill 7 months ago
I was hoping that I could use a garden hose to do most of the work on my window unit. I've noticed that the unit in this video has mechanical controls, but mine has some simple electronic controls - would you recommend that it's OK to do this even with electronic controls?
spinaxchin 7 months ago
Thanks for this! I've got a window unit that's pretty dirty, and I was wondering if I could use a garden hose to do most of the work, or if that would damage the unit. I guess this video answers that.
spinaxchin 7 months ago
You could use an animal comb (long hair dogs in eg) to straighten the condenser
paky66 7 months ago
thanks a lot for this!!! just save my 15$ heheheh! thanks for sharing! :)
yeojdizon 7 months ago
great video!. I saw this years ago and forgot who made it!. good work William!
Aussie50 7 months ago
@Aussie50 Thank you. I enjoy watching both you and v8jagnut...I've learned a lot and some of the stuff you get up to is simply hilarious!
uxwbill 7 months ago
best video i seen so far, thanks it helps alot!!
patitas4life 7 months ago
Would you recommend washing the inside like that with modern Wall mounted AC units?
malinko35 7 months ago
@malinko35 I would suggest removing the unit from the wall first, to avoid damaging your building. It does not hurt to clean any air conditioning system, although how much you can do varies depending upon what you have to work with.
uxwbill 7 months ago
a dirty air conditioner can make you sick
Super360killa 7 months ago
I've heard there's a special comb you can buy for straightening those fins. Hell buy one instead of doing every single fin by hand!
piper4seeformerly 7 months ago
@piper4seeformerly There is a reason why I used a screwdriver. It's the tool that an average homeowner will have. Please read some of the other comments and the video description--after two years and change, many people have made the suggestion.
uxwbill 7 months ago
i hope this vid can help with the fishy smell out of a 3 yr old air conditioner
twitchy66 7 months ago
@twitchy66 It certainly can, although you will have to clean it out really well. Nasty stuff can hide in out of the way places. Just don't abuse any of the refrigeration tubing or coils.
uxwbill 7 months ago
@uxwbill thanks for the info,, ill have to clean out my moms window air cond.
twitchy66 7 months ago
I use to pick up window units constantly ... Tear them completely down... Condenser coil clean works well on cleaning the coils properly/ cleans mold etc...
I would usually braze in my own low side / high side ports... then leak check / pull vacumm 500 microns/ Weigh in freon to factory specs... test... *sits back and opens beer*
fattony123082 7 months ago
They make special combs for the fins, better and faster than a screwdriver.
handiest1 7 months ago
Hi thanks for the videol! We tried it on our old AC coz it's kinda dirty, old and it's not giving enough cool. The problem is that after doing that we still have the same result. We tried asking a professional about it so he checked for leaks, if there's enough refrigerant. He found that it has and there's no leaks and the electrical components are still good. He just said that it's probably that it's been unused for years. What do you think the problem is? can you please help us :(
netson26 7 months ago
will it damage the electical components such as the switch to get hit with the hose?
computersmasher 8 months ago
@computersmasher read the description
re2fanlicker2 7 months ago
Great video for my upcoming cleaning.
I have an old firgidaire window AC that I would like to install through the wall where my old one used to be. The dimensions are fine, and will fit with more than enough room. It it a good idea? Do I have to remove the shroud of the window AC? Thanks.
biped19 8 months ago
@biped19 As long as the unit physically fits and the wall is strong enough to support the weight, it should work. The only thing you should have to remove are the "curtains" that would facilitate its installation into a window.
uxwbill 8 months ago
now if you can hire a welder to build a mesh metal cage around it so dennis the menace cant run a stick across those begging fins
4cClubT 8 months ago
So basically just clean it
2LateIWon 8 months ago
You are a magician... not with ACs... I mean making riding-lawn-mower-mounted-women just DISAPPEAR!!!!! 2:48 :D Good video. Thank you for the contribution!
BallisticPenetration 8 months ago
@BallisticPenetration That's no woman...that's the Keykeeper! (If you're new here, he's my brother and also the guy who has the keys to almost everything.)
uxwbill 8 months ago
Thanks for this very informative video!
ernskie75 9 months ago
You should have sprayed the shit out of that dude that walked by.....then claimed it was an accident.
waterwart 9 months ago
A fine tooth comb will can help with the fins
boodrow24m 9 months ago
@boodrow24m A lot of people have pointed that out now. :-)
I chose a tool that A) I had B) I felt others would be likely to have and C) will work in a pinch even if it does take longer. This guide is not aimed at the professional so much as it is the average, moderately knowledgeable air-conditioner owner who wants to make sure they are getting the cooling that they are paying for.
uxwbill 9 months ago
oh and if your fins are not fucked all the way down like his put a piece of ice on the straight fins and slide it up its amazing it is a good fix cause its fast and easy but you gotta let the ice melt a bit to ingrave the pattern in the ice
Mooseguy15 10 months ago
Bro, thanks so much for posting this video. My window unit has lost a lot of it's air velocity and I'm betting it's because there's dirt buildup from months of running and not being cleaned. I'll be cleaning that bad boy off this weekend. Thanks again!
72grantorino 10 months ago
Everyone, please don't use a jet spray to clean the electrical components on any unit. It's stupidity in the extreme. If you need to clean coils use oxygen free nitrogen (and chemical coil cleaner if needed). For the plastic casings, motors, housings etc, a soft brush, dry cloth and a vacuum for the difficult to reach places is usually enough. Bit of common sense (like not giving your ac a shower) is needed when doing stuff like this.
jock101dbpe 11 months ago
@jock101dbpe Read the other comments. You're not the first, you won't be the last. And you'll also get to know that I contest your assertions. The way some A/C units are designed, wiring is exposed to the weather. Let the unit dry, you will be fine.
uxwbill 11 months ago
You are doing this the hard way. Do not use a screwdriver or putty knife. You can buy a fin comb really cheap. Even the part stores sell them between $5 to $20. You can buy them at auto part stores and even harbor freight. Spray a lubricant like WD-40 to make it go even smoother. You can straighten at least 5 fins at a time without risking messing them up even more with a screwdriver or putty knife.
you are right though this will reduce the energy costs. There are better ways to do this.
BGreenHVAC 11 months ago
@BGreenHVAC You have to read the other comments. You are not the first to suggest a fin comb, and you won't be the last. I don't have a problem with the suggestion, but this video has been online for a while now. I used a tool that people are likely to have around their home and it does work, even if it will take longer.
Maybe one day I will buy a fin comb and try it.
uxwbill 11 months ago
@uxwbill also one more thing it's a magnasonic works great compressor is in ship shape condition but i cannot find anything on google nor youtube about magnasonic A/C units is magnasonic not a company anymore or well known? cause i wanna find like manuals and shit to find out some stuff but i cannot
Mooseguy15 8 months ago
@Mooseguy15 The company could be long out of business or it might have been bought out by someone else. Maybe they never had a web site. I don't have any manuals or know where you could get them. (And yes, I know it's been a while since you made this comment. It got overlooked.)
uxwbill 6 months ago
@uxwbill they still exist just don't make air conditioners ne more and i think they are electrolux now.
Mooseguy15 5 months ago
LOL!!! I AM ONE OF THOSE KIDS WHO VANDALIZES PEOPLE'S FINS
blazeit19 11 months ago
@blazeit19 Yeah, well, knock it off or I'll have you made into an air conditioner! ;-)
uxwbill 11 months ago
@uxwbill lol naaaa i don't do that. Thx for the Vid though Mines got really dirty!
blazeit19 11 months ago
They do make a comb to straighten up them! and they work fast!
James1toknow 11 months ago
Oxididation of the plug does cause fires for sure. I have seen it happen twice myself. Once on an electric heater and once on a drill press. Both times the wall caught fire right at the outlet.
FreeTalkLive 11 months ago
Thank you william. I just got it. its a 1998 fedders window unit. It was in the wall of a building at my friends house. I thoght we would never get it out! But we did. It probley has not been used for about 5 years? But when I turned it on, dust flew out! But somtime mabey this week, I will wire up a gfci outlet. Also I need to replace the cord because the retards who installed it, CUT the ground prong of the plug. it still works, but i am doing it for saftey concerns. :-)
Averythefanman 11 months ago
@Averythefanman Good thinking. The third plug prong is there for a real reason. I find a lot of older homes that do not have outlets with the third prong. People simply buy those adapters. I dislike this practice. Typically they have a metal hole that is supposed to ground it to the conduit. I guess it is better than nothing (as long as it actually functions as a ground). Usually they don't. I encountered this situation with an elderly woman. Her outlets showed evidence of burn marks.
BGreenHVAC 11 months ago
I just done this to my fedders today, and I think the first time this spring and summer its going to work very well. thank you so much for all this. I can't stop watching it its so cool!
Averythefanman 11 months ago
@Averythefanman Good luck. I hope it will help your air conditioner work better. Thanks for watching and do feel free to comment or send a private message.
uxwbill 11 months ago
Use a flee-comb to stratan de feen.
yrdagyr 1 year ago
BUY a FINN COMB about $20 for a many sizes aka finns per inch
Q4JULY33063 1 year ago 3
@Q4JULY33063 You can get the right fin comb for about $2.99 to $7.99 and a can of WD-40 and do a much better job for less effort.
BGreenHVAC 11 months ago
Good tips, Thank you. I seen a tool at home depot its a AC-Safe Air Conditioner Fin Repair Tool
Model # AC-901
Internet # 100664958
Store SKU # 380131
Hollrobb 1 year ago
Hey no offense my friend most people would probably hurt themselves or break there ac in the process. I make my air conditioner more efficient by running it off solar but i suppose it would need a good coil cleaning too!
DCAIRCONEXPRT 1 year ago
@DCAIRCONEXPRT None taken. :-) This video was made in the hope that it would be helpful to reasonably capable "average" people who are capable of using hand tools without injuring or maiming themselves.
I've got another air conditioner right now that is full of mold spots. Should be interesting to see what it takes to get that one clean.
uxwbill 1 year ago
i love your video..really helped me a lot..
concealedcheckmate 1 year ago
This guy's existents is a bit of a dichotomy - on the one part - if you have kids he is a great guy to teach and educate regarding the mechanic world around them. On the other hand the crap in his front yard will drive down your property values.
AMilitantAgnostic 1 year ago
what year is that A/C? and dose it use R12 or R22 refrigerant?
xctome 1 year ago
@xctome 2001/134A
uxwbill 1 year ago
@uxwbill wow! 134A this is the first A/C i have seen that uses R134A. i thought t used R22!
xctome 1 year ago
@uxwbill did you change the refrigirant or did it come with R134A cause i bought a new 5,000BTU Frigidaire A/C unit in bout 2010 and it had R22 why?
Mooseguy15 8 months ago
@Mooseguy15 It's probably just what the designers felt they ought to use--or maybe a question of the kind of compressor that was available from the lowest bidder.
I do not handle refrigerant as I am not trained or licensed to do so.
uxwbill 6 months ago
i get to buy ultra capacity AC units for nothing because people think they are bad when they only need what this guy is doing
kakureru 1 year ago
how to open GE THINLINE?
juniorni 1 year ago
omg I cant beleive you are telling people to hose out there air conditioner.I would of chose compressed air as it is not conductive...geez man I am not arguing with the fact that it will run more efficiently but the hose thing is a little too much when dealing with an electrical appliance. Water and electricity do not mix so choose life you wont need an air conditioner if your dead!
DCAIRCONEXPRT 1 year ago
@DCAIRCONEXPRT It actually doesn't hurt a thing. I do it to my Frigidaire all the time and no problems. It is a window A/C, and it sticks outside, so what happens when it rains? Water! As long as you are careful, you will be just fine. Believe me.
HCVguy93 1 year ago
@HCVguy93 I'm not sure what this person is on about, because not only is there atmospheric water but also condensate from the cooling process. A lot of it does get into the bottom pan, and the outer fan tends to fling it around. In my good old trashpicked Carrier window A/C, the wiring loom and contacts going to the capacitor were open to the elements, facing down. I've seen some with exposed controls as well.
In any case, they've made the same comment many times here. Maybe they are trolling?
uxwbill 1 year ago
@uxwbill You are probably right, trolling. It might be that they have nothing better to do, or maybe just that they know nothing about window A/C units. BTW I also don't think I ever thanked you for this video! I have a video on my channel about cleaning my Frigidaire window A/C and I wouldn't have known how to do it without this video!
HCVguy93 1 year ago
OMG TY!!
bringer96 1 year ago
will this fix the problem of the whole aircon turning to ice after being on for 30mins?
filoprince 1 year ago
@filoprince No your air con unit could be low on gas and flooding back refrigerant please dont turn on your hose you could electicute yourself......
DCAIRCONEXPRT 1 year ago
There is a wire comb that us a/c technicians use for straightening out the fins on the radiator... you might be able to find it at your hardware store.
Epicx1984 1 year ago 2
@Epicx1984 A number of people have pointed that out, and I'm sure it's true. :-) Were I doing a lot more of these, I would probably get one of those tools.
uxwbill 1 year ago
Wow, the real red green show.
heatherandpaul2 1 year ago
Happy to report that cleaning the air conditioner did help a lot. Thermostat does not have to be turned up as high for the AC to do the equivalent cooling that it did before which also means that it is using less power and the compressor is turning on somewhat less frequently. This video was great. I followed exactly what you said Bill and the results were great. The air coming out of the front vent doesn't stink as bad anymore either. :) The AC has the dial controls instead which is good.
jkeelsnc 1 year ago
well thanks for the info i have a digital fedders ac can i still spray it down or would u not advise that cause its not cooling all that well and theres crud an inch thick in there
madgamer0001 1 year ago
Try not to get those digital controls too wet, but if you do, don't sweat it too much. Just leave them facing the indirect sun to dry.
uxwbill 1 year ago
The AC here is 240V so I could not run it on an extension cord like you did. However, I slid it back into its chassis and I will run it tomorrow off the 240V outlet for a while on the fan after its had a chance to dry out a bit.
jkeelsnc 1 year ago
You don't have a 240V extension cord? (evil, evil grin)
I have a big box of "unwise contraptions" that would make a lot of people gasp in shock, but if they are safe enough and allow for easy testing...
uxwbill 1 year ago
Well, I just cleaned the air conditioner out today. It is still sitting for a while to dry out. I will start up the fan for a while (by itself without the compressor) in the morning to finish drying everything out. I could not believe the years worth of dirt, mold, slime, gunk, etc that had built up in it. Fortunately, it has the knob type controls like yours and so those should be OK after it has dried out good for a few hours and then run the fan for a while. :)
jkeelsnc 1 year ago
Anyway, I will be cleaning the carrier behemoth tomorrow it appears. Not much fun. It is heavy as hell to move. Perhaps I will get my neighbor to help me lift it outside and set it on the patio to be hosed down with the nozzle and a bottle of Ajax dish detergent and a brush. :) Thanks for the video. The nasty air conditioner here has been smelling bad and making me sick! Aside from the fact that it collected a bunch of water recently but I fixed the drain hole. Time to clean it. :)
jkeelsnc 1 year ago
Yep, Thanks Bill for uploading this video. I saw it earlier this summer. In the house that I rent there is a 240V carrier 15000BTU air conditioner that I am not sure has ever been cleaned. I cleaned out the filter and helped a little. But then I came home tonight and turned on the fan to hear it swimming in a couple inches of water. Well the drain hole was plugged. I went outside and opened the hole with a screw driver and drained it. Now I'm going to clean it like you did! :)
jkeelsnc 1 year ago
I followed your advice and all went well. I could not believe how filthy the inside of my AC was! It's been running for about 4 summers. It is running better now.
copperpaint 1 year ago
why not use a fin comb to straighten the fins? And in a pinch I cut the large ends off a small hair comb and use that.
Also, this is how I cleaned my window unit with the digital controls, and a drop or to did get in the controls and mess it up. But I just opened up the where the board sits and blew it with a hair dryer, luckily it didn't cause a short and after drying it out it worked fine.
MrCipher6 1 year ago
This was a great video. I have no in-window A/C units at the moment, but the concept applies and it was nice to learn. Thanks!
sega07274 1 year ago
two words... "fin straightener."
4micaman 1 year ago
it is not good for a compressor to flip ! (like u do with that)
nadeem5476 1 year ago
a hundred and ten in the shade is a song by John Foggerty from his blue moon swamp album.
easyhec 1 year ago
I enjoyed the video and learned quite a bit about cleaning my window units. I also learned what I need before cleaning two which I have ready to be taken out. Why does they seem to cool real good at first then over a month seem to cool less. The filter has been cleaned and it still don't seem to work?
semco72057 1 year ago
My ac compressor makes a ticking noise does that means problem?!
acnfanmanin 1 year ago
To clarify - Some electronic components are not affected by water when not in use if left to dry properly, these include diodes, resistors, capacitors, transformers, IC's (although water can get trapped under them), fuses, transistors, led's, voltage regulators. Compressors are sealed, water can't hurt them! You should avoid soaking relays, switches and motors unless you are 100% sure they are dry before use. You should still make sure it's all dry before use anyway !
JohnnyX50 1 year ago
I did almost the same thing with my portable air con today, but I removed the relay circuit and the control panel first. Then used foam carpet cleaner sprayed onto the dirty side of fins, left to soak in then rinsed with garden hose. It all came out looking like new again and works much better and has no nasty smell any more =] Nice tutorial =]
JohnnyX50 1 year ago
What do u recommend to get rid of, and keep that stinky sock smell away. ( I guess it's mold of sort)?
papercuts777 1 year ago
It is a mold or bacteria. What I recommend to anyone with a home or car air conditioner is to shut the compressor off and let the fan continue to operate for a few minutes. This helps the evaporator coil dry. It will then be less attractive to bacteria or mold and the smell should stop.
Doing this can even get rid of the smell if it's been there, but it will take a while. If you do not have a while, coil cleaner or a moderate disinfecting cleaner ("Pine Cleaner") will work as shown in this vid.
uxwbill 1 year ago
@uxwbill Thanks for answering that so fast. Yes, I like the idea of Pinesol but it evaporates from the floor in a few hrs with no smell left so thought it wouldn't last in the A/C.
papercuts777 1 year ago
I would buy a fin comb from Ebay or your local a/c store.
idesofmarchUNIAEA 1 year ago
you can actually clean the coils with a wire brus...it works perfectly
tapyourfeet 1 year ago
Also the thing about the letting the oil settle only applies to reciprocating (piston) compressors. Rotary compressors like the one it the video can be started immediately after being turned back upright. The reason is that when turned on its side or upside down the cylinder or suction muffler on a recip compressor can fill with oil and then if you try to start it with the oil still in there the piston will hit the oil and either break the reed valves or the connecting rod. Great vid BTW.
danielthechskid 1 year ago
A couple thoughts,
If it has control knobs the water usually won't hurt them as long as you let them dry. If it has electronic touch controls the printed circuit boards should not be allowed to get wet with tap water. The minerals in the water will stay on the board when the water evaporates and will cause enough leakage current to really mess things up. If you do get tap water on the boards rinse them off with distilled water before they dry and then leave them in the sun to dry.
danielthechskid 1 year ago
Sir, You neglected to remind everyone that it is wise to place a plastic bag over the electronics IE; on and off buttons. I'll also add that if you do turn your AC on its side, wait 6 hours for the oil to return to the compressor. (same for fridges if you turn them on the side)
scootalee 1 year ago
See the other comments regarding the controls. I'm not sure it is a big deal, they are exposed to moisture and even a little weather in their day to day operations. You have a good point about waiting for the oil to return to the compressor.
uxwbill 1 year ago
@uxwbill its a big deal in newer air conditioners that have an printed circuit board in them. The older ones with just knobs is not TOO big a deal, it's pretty hard (though not impossible) to get the switches on the older ones wet enough to cause problems. Also, make sure the top of the compressor is sealed well where the wires go in, as it is possible for water to pool up there, causing a short.
But, as scootalee kinda hit on, turning your AC on it's side is a bad thing.
bac512 1 year ago
I agree...when you start talking about the newest ones that have microcontroller-based controls in them, there could be a problem. (But I have thrown whole computers in the dishwasher and they've lived every time...see my videos on that).
I do maintain that if turning a compressor on its side kills it *after* letting it sit in the correct way for several hours minimum, there were already serious problems and the system was on borrowed time anyway.
uxwbill 1 year ago
@uxwbill I clean hotel air conditioners, so I do lots and lots of them. The problem with the control boards getting wet is, of course, hotels don't let them sit long enough to dry properly, an water gets under the components and shorts things out. As for tipping them on their side, I don't honestly know the interior workings of A/C compressors, but what I've been told is, if too much oil from the compressor gets in the coils, it will clog them. I do not know this for FACT though.
bac512 1 year ago
Lying it on the side isnt really a big deal, the unit is completely sealed. However it should be noted to let it sit upright for upwards of an hour before plugging it in and operating to take care of any coolant that may have pooled where it shouldnt have. Just like a fridge.
Neuralatrophy 1 year ago
@scootalee I did this process and i flushed so much gunk out and left it like new, but its still not as cold as it used to be. I did turn it on its side and only waited about 2 hours. i didnt know about compressor oil. Did i damage it? (its still cold but not that freezing cold)
305missbunny 1 year ago
@305missbunny look CLOSELY at the INSIDE of the OUTSIDE fins (the fins that are usually on the outside of the window). There is a case covering these fins, and these fins usually get jammed with dust and dirt and everything, and become a solid sheet, stopping air flow from cooling those coils. in most cases you're going to need to remove that back cover so you can access the side of the coils pointing to the fan to clean those. if you can free up MOST of the coils, you'll feel a major change.
bac512 1 year ago
Nice vid. However, I found a way to straighten those fins. I take a small steel wire brush, and start at the top and brush down, along the fins. This makes the job go much faster.
eddiequest4 1 year ago
I haven't heard of doing that before. Perhaps if I come across a junk coil, I will practice this idea and see how it goes. If it could work, it would be a BIG time saver.
uxwbill 1 year ago
@eddiequest4 That sounds like a good idea because those things are so easy to bend.
semco72057 1 year ago
thank you soooooo much... you just literally saved my life with this video!!
nishalyn 1 year ago
Comment removed
nishalyn 1 year ago
is this a junkyard?
PAMAROSHOUSE 1 year ago
No, why do you ask?
uxwbill 1 year ago
Hey bill, I'm in a little bit of a predicament here and I'm wondering if you can help. I have a portable AC (much like yours) but its too wide to fit in the window. It is way too hot and I need it so I'm trying to formulate a little design. I'm going to have it sit on a platform and attatch some plywood/cardboard to the very back and lead it to the window, only the back of the AC needs to go outside right? What are the side vents for? Do they also need to be outside?
beastman101 1 year ago
The side vents let air get in (typically) so that it can be blown out over that condenser coil on the outside. You might be OK if you can channel the air outside somehow, although this will waste some of your cooling capacity. That said, not all air conditioners work the same way, and you might find that it pulls air in the front and pushes it out the sides. No harm in trying--I just know that if I were doing this, that's how it would work for me...my life can be a comedy!
uxwbill 1 year ago
If you look online you can find condenser / evaporator coil fin straightener combs and straighten the fins in a minute or two.
cherisong 1 year ago
You can buy fin combs at Locke or Johnston Supply. They are around $20-$30. It saves alot of time.
jerrydon575 1 year ago
i mean your A/C is 12,000 BTU and probably newer of course than mine i mean i think mine is from the 1980's but yeah ill make a vid and send it to you
Mooseguy15 1 year ago
My air conditioner is 15000 BTU and the end of the plug gets VERY hot but its oklol