Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Through-the-Wall AC Running Like New

🛠 Why Maintenance Is Critical

A through-the-wall air conditioner like the Amana PBH092J12AA is a significant investment. With regular maintenance, you can:

• Maximize efficiency

• Extend equipment lifespan

• Avoid costly repairs

• Ensure year-round comfort

Mike Sanders always says: "A few simple steps now save you thousands later."

📅 The Annual Maintenance Calendar

Time of Year	Maintenance Task
Spring	Full system inspection
Summer	Monthly filter cleaning
Fall	Drainage check & sleeve inspection
Winter	Draft sealing & off-season protection

🧼 1️⃣ Clean or Replace Filters (Monthly in Season)

Why it matters:

• Dirty filters restrict airflow.

• Reduces efficiency up to 15%.

• Allows dust, allergens, and mold to circulate.

How to do it:

• Slide out front grille.

• Remove filter.

• Wash gently with warm water and mild detergent.

• Fully dry before reinstalling.

• Replace if filter is worn or damaged.

Reference: Energy Star AC Maintenance Tips

🌀 2️⃣ Clean the Coils (Spring & Fall)

Evaporator Coil (Inside)

• Access behind front panel.

• Use soft brush or vacuum with brush attachment.

• Avoid bending aluminum fins.

Condenser Coil (Outside)

• Clean exterior vents with garden hose (gentle spray).

• Clear away leaves, dirt, and debris around exterior sleeve.

Important: Disconnect power before cleaning!

Reference: HVAC.com Coil Cleaning Guide

💧 3️⃣ Inspect Condensate Drainage (Spring & Fall)

• Verify slope allows proper drainage.

• Check for algae or mold buildup in drain pan.

• Use diluted vinegar solution (50/50 mix) to flush drain pan.

• Clear any blockages to prevent water leaks into wall cavity.

Mike’s Tip: "Water stains under your wall unit = drainage problem. Don’t ignore it!"

Reference: Energy.gov Moisture Management

🪟 4️⃣ Inspect Sleeve Sealing (Every Fall)

• Check exterior caulk for cracks or gaps.

• Inspect weather stripping for deterioration.

• Apply fresh exterior-grade silicone sealant if needed.

• Prevents winter drafts, rodents, and water intrusion.

Reference: The Spruce AC Sleeve Maintenance Guide

🔊 5️⃣ Noise and Vibration Checks (Spring)

• Inspect mounting sleeve for secure fit.

• Ensure unit is level and not rattling.

• Add foam isolation strips if vibrations increase.

• Listen for unusual humming or buzzing indicating loose components.

Mike’s Tip:

"If your wall unit suddenly sounds like an old pickup truck, check mounting tightness first."

⚠️ 6️⃣ Safety Checks (Spring)

• Inspect power cord and plug for damage.

• Test GFCI outlet functionality.

• Verify circuit breaker amperage matches manufacturer specs.

• Remove any extension cords or power strips.

Always hire a licensed electrician for wiring concerns.

Reference: NFPA Electrical Safety Code

🏠 7️⃣ Winterization for Off-Season Protection

• Install exterior winter cover (if not operating as heat pump).

• Place interior insulated draft cover (optional).

• Verify moisture barriers are intact.

• Do not fully seal vents if unit includes heat pump functionality — allow air flow during defrost cycles.

🔩 8️⃣ Schedule Professional Service (Every 2-3 Years)

Professional technicians can:

• Check refrigerant charge

• Inspect reversing valve (heat pumps)

• Test defrost cycles

• Clean hard-to-access interior coils

• Verify blower motor function

• Update firmware (if smart-enabled unit)

Cost: ~$150 to $250 per service visit

Reference:  AC Tune-Up Pricing 2025

🏅 9️⃣ Lifetime Extending Best Practices

• Never block intake or exhaust airflow.

• Maintain room humidity below 60%.

• Avoid over-sizing or under-sizing unit.

• Use programmable thermostats to avoid excessive cycling.

• Invest in high-quality wall sleeve during initial install.

Mike’s Golden Rule: "Take care of your unit, and it will take care of you for 15+ years."

🏆 Signs Maintenance May Be Overdue

• Unit struggles to reach set temperature

• Excessive humidity indoors

• Visible mold on filters or grille

• Increased noise or rattling

• Water stains inside wall cavity

• Rising energy bills

If you experience multiple symptoms, schedule a professional inspection.

🔬 Maintenance Frequency Cheat Sheet

Task	Frequency
Filter Cleaning	Monthly
Coil Cleaning	2x per year
Drain Inspection	2x per year
Sleeve Sealing	Annual (Fall)
Full Pro Service	Every 2-3 years

In the next topic we will know more about: What’s the Difference Between Through-the-Wall and Window Air Conditioners?