Fixing a leaking window AC unit can be a tough job if you are not familiar with what you are trying to fix.
Not only is a leaky air conditioner messy,
but it can also cause serious damage to your home! Addressing the issue is more of a maintenance project than an ac repair job, and one that should be performed once or twice yearly. If you are experiencing a leaky air conditioning unit, there are a few things you can do on your own to help avoid a costly ac repair bill from a professional. In this article, we will walk you through the process involved in a leaky window ac repair.
Step 1
Remove the unit from the window on a day that is mold, pleasant and sunny. This will help the unit dry out once the project is completed.
Step 2
Position the unit on a level and stable service, such as a concrete slab or tile. Avoid placing the unit in the grass, mud or dirt. This will only serve to clog up the unit, causing additional problems and headaches.
Step 3
Remove the exterior metal casing of the AC with the aid of a screwdriver. In most units, you will find four to six screws situated along the lower edge of the casing, securing it to the frame.
Step 4
Inspect the interior of the system. Make sure that a plastic tray is present at the bottom of the unit. This tray service to carry condensation from the cooling coils, allowing it to flow outside and to the ground below. If it's been a while since your unit's last service, you will likely find a variety of dust and bacteria growth inside. Take a minute to clean out the tray before moving forward.
Step 5
Grab a measuring cup and add some store-bought house bleach to the tray. Allow the bleach to sit in the tray for a period of 5 to 10 minutes. After this period of time, you can rinse the tray and position it back to it's proper spot.
Step 6
Grab your trusty garden hose and attach it to the outdoor spigot. Add the spray nozzle.
Step 7
Turn on the water and spray inside the unit using moderate pressure from the nozzle. Direct the spray to the plastic tray and make sure that all of the debris that has fallen in from the rest of the unit is removed. Pay special attention to the exterior coils, seeing as you already have the insides exposed. The interior filter should be removed and replaced if any significant damage is present. If all looks well, simply clean the filter and place it back to the proper spot.
Step 8
Add another serving of bleach to the plastic tray and allow it to sit for another 15 minute round. Once again, thoroughly rinse and replace. At this point the inside of the unit should be completely clean.
Step 9
Situate the unit out in a sunny spot. Once it has dried, place the cover back on and put the unit back into the window and your ac repair is finished!
