How to Repair an AC Wall Unit

Turn the AC power switch off and unplug the unit from the electrical outlet. Position the tip of a screwdriver over the screws that secure the front grille to the unit’s frame. Turn it counterclockwise to loosen the screws and set these aside to use for reassembly. Continue to remove the screws until the grille comes off. If required, slide the flat end of a screwdriver under the grille and pry it off.

Assign a helper to grasp one side of the air conditioner while you hold its other side. Slide the unit out of its place and set it on a hard, level surface.

Locate the mesh filter that covers the fins on the air conditioner evaporator coil. Remove the mesh filter and gently wash it with warm soapy water. Scrub the mesh carefully with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse it with clean water to remove soap residue before you set it aside to dry.

Insert a soft brush attachment into your vacuum and run it over the evaporator coils. Remove stubborn dirt that remains on the coils with a heavy-duty brush even after you vacuumed it.

Inspect the fins on the air conditioner for those that are bent. Run a fin comb in the same direction as the fins surrounding the damaged ones to straighten them.

Move to the other side of the air conditioner to locate its condenser coils. Repeat the process of vacuuming the coils. Remove stubborn dirt left by the vacuum with a heavy brush. Straighten bent fins with a fin comb.

Vacuum the fan blades to remove accumulated dust and debris. Use a heavy brush to remove remaining dirt particles. Carefully slide the unit back in the hole.

Replace the dried mesh filter and the grille. Insert the screws you had set aside to reassemble the unit. Plug the electric cord back in the outlet and turn it on.