Regular aircon maintenance is essential for efficient operation and extended lifespan of your air conditioning unit. Chemical wash and steam cleaning are the leading aircon cleaning methods. Although both cleaning techniques aim at eliminating dirt and grime from AC units, their operational processes and outcomes are slightly different. Let’s explain the key differences between aircon chemical wash and steam cleaning so you can select the appropriate solution for your AC maintenance requirements.
What Does Aircon Chemical Wash Mean?
Aircon chemical wash is a deep cleaning process where technicians take apart different parts of the aircon and apply specialized chemical solutions to clean it. This cleaning approach effectively eliminates stubborn dirt, grease, and mold that builds up inside the unit. This dirt causes blockages that decrease the performance of the AC. The chemical solution breaks down grime, cleanse the internal parts of the aircon, and enhances its performance. This is a more intensive aircon cleaning process.
What Does Aircon Steam Cleaning Mean?
Aircon steam cleaning is an eco-friendly cleaning solution that utilizes high-pressure steam for AC maintenance. High-pressure steam cleaning removes dirt, bacteria and allergens without the need for harsh chemicals. This is a retoune maintenance approach that helps maintain cleanliness and freshness of the air. Steam cleaning is effective for AC units that have moderate dirt build-up. It is more appropriate for households that want to avoid chemicals in their regular cleaning routine.
Table of Comparison
aircon chemical wash vs steam clean comparison table
Key Differences Between Chemical & Steam Cleaning
Below are the key differences between these two aircon cleaning methods:
Cleaning Intensity
During the chemical wash, AC units receive deep cleaning. Here, technicians dismantle the AC to treat internal components with powerful chemical solutions. This technique is applied for heavy dirt accumulation, mold, and blockages. Steam cleaning, on the other hand, relies on high-temperature steam to perform non-invasive surface-level cleaning. It is appropriate for regular maintenance of the aircon units.
Environmental Impact
The chemical residues from chemical washes require careful flushing to prevent negative environmental effects. Steam cleaning relies solely on water for operation and generates no chemical waste. Hence, steam cleaning is a more sustainable choice if you care about the environment. Steam cleaning can destroy bacteria and allergens without the need for chemical substances.
Frequency of Use
Units receive chemical washes only when they accumulate substantial dirt or blockages. These treatments are not performed often. On the other hand, you can perform steam cleaning every six months to ensure your unit stays clean and functions efficiently.
Cost Consideration
Chemical washes require dismantling and deep cleaning which is more costly. Steam cleaning is comparatively more cost-effective. It is suitable for frequent cleaning applications as the cost is lower.
Effect on Unit Lifespan
Regular chemical washes can enhance the lifespan of the AC by preventing serious damage from accumulated dirt. Steam cleaning works well for basic maintenance but doesn’t provide deep cleaning for clogged parts.
Pros and Cons of Chemical Wash & Steam Cleaning
Now, let’s find the advantages and disadvantages of both these aircon cleaning processes.
Aircon Chemical Wash – Pros and cons
👍 Effective for deep cleaning
👍 Restores AC to optimal performance
👍 Removes stubborn grime, mold, and blockages
👎 More expensive
👎 Involves chemical use
👎 Requires professional expertise
Aircon Steam Cleaning- Pros and cons
👍 Eco-friendly and chemical-free
👍 Ideal for regular maintenance
👍 Affordable and quick
👎 Less effective for deep cleaning
👎 This cleaning method fails to eliminate major dirt and mold problems.
👎 Limited in cleaning internal components
When to Apply Chemical Wash
Air conditioning units with performance problems such as poor cooling should receive a chemical wash treatment. The chemical wash will help achieve better results if dirt buildup or mold growth obstructs the internal parts of your air conditioning system. Experts typically suggest performing chemical washing annually. However, this frequency should be adjusted based on how much you use your AC system and environmental conditions.
When to Apply Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaning can be applied during regular air conditioning maintenance. Applying this every six months is the best option to keep your functioning AC unit free from bacteria and allergens. It will keep your AC free of mild dirt. Homes that wish to avoid harsh chemicals can benefit from steam cleaning.
FAQ
How often should I perform a chemical wash on my aircon?
A chemical wash should be done annually or when the AC shows problems like diminished cooling power.
Is steam cleaning enough for my AC if I live in a dusty area?
Regular maintenance of your AC with steam cleaning works well for normal use in a clean environment. But in dusty areas, you’ll need to conduct chemical washes occasionally to achieve deep cleaning.
Can I perform an aircon chemical wash by myself?
Professionals should perform chemical washes since the process requires unit dismantling and special handling of powerful chemicals.
Will steam cleaning kill bacteria in my AC?
Steam cleaning works effectively against bacteria and allergens because of its high temperature.
Conclusion
Both the aircon chemical wash and steam cleaning methods provide distinct benefits. To deeply clean a heavily clogged or inefficient air conditioning unit, opt for chemical wash. For regular maintenance, choose steam cleaning. Analyze the differences of these techniques and your aircon condition to choose the right cleaning method of your system.
