In addition to keeping your unit running smoothly, regular air conditioner cleaning also helps maintain healthy indoor air quality, prevents dust build-up, and extends the lifespan of your Mitsubishi Electric system. Although this process might seem daunting at first, using our helpful, step-by-step guide, you can easily learn how to clean your air conditioner filter and unit.
About Cleaning Your Heat Pump
1. Before cleaning your heat pump, switch it off to ensure safety. The main power isolation switch is generally found on the outdoor unit. If you are having trouble locating this switch, please call your local air conditioning service company for instructions.
2. Once inside, be careful not to touch the metal coil/fins with your hands.
3. Use only diluted mild detergents.
4. Do not use benzene, thinner, polishing powder, or insecticide.
5. Do not expose parts to direct sunlight, heat, or fire.
6. Some vacuum cleaners are equipped with overload protection devices, which might activate if the airflow through the vacuum cleaner hose is restricted. In that case, use the lowest power setting available.
7. If the special-made brushes become dirty, wash them with water and let them dry completely out of direct sunlight.
8. When cleaning the heat pump, do not stand on an unstable bench or chair. This may cause an injury if you fall down.
9. Please refer to the operating instructions of your heat pump for more information.
10. Under no circumstances should you apply water to any of the inner workings of a heat pump.
Remember, regular air con cleaning regardless of the type of air conditioning system you have, will help ensure it performs reliably throughout the year and protect its longevity.
What you will need to clean the AC unit filter
To get started with cleaning the filter of your air conditioner, you will need a pair of gloves, a cleaning cloth, a vacuum cleaner and our Quick Clean accessory kit.
The MAC-093SS Quick Cleaning kit is available to purchase from your installer or through the Mitsubishi Electric Spare Parts service.
Additional items you may find useful include a soft brush for dusting, a small bucket of lukewarm water, and a safe step ladder for comfortably reaching the unit. Preparing these before you begin makes cleaning an AC unit filter faster and easier.
Note that you should always refer to the instruction manual when opening your air conditioner unit. Instructions on how to handle or clean specific types of units — such as floor console or other models of wall mounted air conditioners. If you’re ever unsure, contact your nearest Mitsubishi Electric authorised dealer for more information.
Note: Some air conditioners, such as ducted, cassette bulkhead systems and outdoor units, may require professional cleaning methods.
Cleaning the front panel
Lift the front panel of your wall mounted air conditioner unit until you hear a click.
Hold the hinges and pull to remove.
This panel can be wiped with a dry cloth or rinsed in lukewarm water before being dried with a soft cloth. Place this panel aside for now.
During high-use seasons such as summer, it’s recommended that the front panel be cleaned at least once every two weeks. Dust and dirt on the panel can restrict airflow and reduce the unit’s overall efficiency.
Connecting the quick clean kit
Next we’ll prepare our Quick Clean kit ready for use. Insert the universal adapter into your vacuum cleaner tube, followed by the flexible connection hose. There are two brush sizes provided.
Cleaning the filter of an air conditioner
Let’s now clean an Air Filter. This should be performed every two weeks.
With the front panel open, unclick the Air Filter and remove it. Light dust can be removed with low-power vacuuming, or for heavier dirt, wash it in lukewarm water. Allow it to dry and place it aside.
You may notice a second filter within the air filter frame — this is the Air Cleaning Filter. We recommend cleaning it every three months in the same way as cleaning the Air Filter it sits within. You should replace your Air Cleaning Filter annually.
Signs that your air conditioner filter needs cleaning include reduced airflow, unusual odours, or higher electricity bills. If you notice any of these issues, it may be time to check whether the filter needs a thorough cleaning or replacement. Knowing how to clean an air conditioner filter at the right time can help avoid costly breakdowns.
With the air filters removed and cleaned, we’ll now clean the Heat Exchanger within your air conditioner. This is best to do once the unit has been off for at least 5 hours to avoid any moisture or heat buildup.
Cleaning the heat exchanger
Wearing gloves, vacuum with the large brush attachment only in a vertical action, following the fins of the Heat Exchanger.
Use the small brush attachment to clean the harder to reach, narrow spaces at the top and bottom of the Heat Exchanger.
For best results, carry out Heat Exchanger cleaning at least once every season. This helps maintain optimal cooling and heating efficiency, especially during summer and winter when the system is working hardest.
Lastly, we’ll clean the Fan Unit itself. These instructions relate to Mitsubishi Electric models fitted with a Quick Clean Body allowing easy fan access. Consult your instruction manual if your Fan Unit looks different to this.
Start by turning the horizontal vanes downward. Remove by unlocking both sliding tabs to the right.
Cleaning the fan
Swing out the two vertical vanes one by one. Clean the air outlet with a soft dry cloth.
Using your Quick Clean Kit adapters, move your brush along the blades of the fan horizontally. Place the vertical vanes back into their respective guides one by one, they will click into place.
Follow the removal steps in reverse to install the horizontal vane. If the horizontal vane isn’t reinstalled correctly, all LED lamps will blink when the power is turned back on.
Don’t forget to carefully place the Air and Air Cleaning Filters back into their original positions, along with the front panel fitting. Your Mitsubishi Electric Air Conditioner is now cleaned and ready for use.
How Often Should You Clean an Air Conditioner?
Knowing how to clean an aircon filter is only part of the process. Equally important is understanding how often to do it:
- For regular home use, clean filters every two weeks during peak seasons.
- For light seasonal use, once a month may be sufficient.
- Homes with pets or allergy-prone residents may require more frequent cleaning.
If you’re wondering, “How do you clean an air conditioner effectively?” The key lies in a routine schedule combined with the right tools and techniques.
Need help?
Whether you want to learn how to clean an AC filter yourself or book professional air conditioner cleaning, Mitsubishi Electric is here to help. For more resources, visit our support page or contact our customer support team. Our after-sales support team can assist you with more information on how to care for your unit or put you in touch with an Accredited Service Provider who can carry out maintenance for you.