Window air conditioners require regular maintenance to deliver energy-efficient comfort. Performance and energy-efficiency specifications for any window air conditioner come with a caveat: They are based on the assumption of proper routine maintenance. Cooling capacity and energy consumption may suffer if maintenance tasks are neglected. Indeed, most of the performance and efficiency improvements you expect to gain by replacing an old clunker with a more advanced air conditioner may be entirely negated by failure to regularly maintain the new unit. One of the most critical parameters in an air conditioner is proper airflow over the evaporator and condenser coils. In addition to recommended cabinet care, ensuring adequate airflow by keeping the filter clean is one of the few maintenance tasks a do-it-yourselfer can perform on a Frigidaire window unit. Push the vent control handle below the left vent all the way inward to close the vents. Open the front panel by pulling it outward to unsnap the upper catches, then swivel the panel downward.

Grasp the center of the air filter inside the front panel. Pull it upward and outward to remove it from the panel. Wash the filter in a solution of dishwashing soap and warm water. Rinse it completely with warm water. Shake the filter gently to remove excess water. Allow the filter to dry completely. Position the filter inside the front panel so the tabs on the upper part of the filter engage with the slots in the front panel. Close the front panel and snap the latch shut. Plug in the air conditioner. Unplug the Frigidaire window air conditioner. Dust the cabinet with a dry, oil-free cloth. Alternatively, wipe the cabinet with a cloth moistened in a weak solution of water and dishwashing soap. Ensure to wring all excess water from the cloth. Can you change or clean the filter in an air conditioner window unit? Users can clean or replace the filter in a window air conditioning unit. Some units have reusable filters, which users wash and put back into the air conditioner. Other filters cannot be reused and need to be replaced.