Keep Cool and Healthy: The Importance of Cleaning Your Air Conditioner in Japan
Keep Cool and Healthy: The Importance of Cleaning Your Air Conditioner in Japan
By Apollo Properties Osaka
As summer temperatures rise in Osaka, your air conditioner becomes one of the most essential appliances in your home. For expats living in Japan, it’s easy to overlook the need for air conditioner maintenance, especially if you're new to Japan's climate or using a unit with Japanese instructions. But keeping your A/C clean is crucial not only for energy efficiency, but also for your health and comfort.
Why Cleaning Your A/C Matters
A dirty air conditioner can lead to reduced cooling efficiency, higher electricity bills, and even respiratory issues due to the buildup of mold and dust inside the unit. In Japan’s humid summer months, this is especially important. Mold thrives in the damp, dark interior of unmaintained units and can lead to unpleasant odors and health concerns such as allergies or asthma.
Regular cleaning ensures your A/C works at full capacity, runs more quietly, and lasts longer. It also improves air quality inside your home—something that’s particularly valuable in smaller Japanese apartments.
Step-by-Step A/C Cleaning Guide
Here’s a simple way to clean a standard wall-mounted A/C unit (called a “kūru” or クーラー in Japan):
- Turn Off the Power
Unplug the unit or switch off the breaker to ensure safety.
- Remove and Wash the Filters
Open the front panel and slide out the dust filters. Wash them with warm, soapy water and let them air dry completely before replacing.
- Wipe the Exterior and Vents
Use a damp cloth to clean the exterior casing and air vents. Avoid spraying water inside the unit.
- Use A/C Cleaning Spray (エアコンクリーナー)
Available at stores like Don Quijote, Nitori, or most drugstores, this foam spray helps clean the internal coils. Follow instructions carefully and use a towel underneath to catch drips.
- Dry the Unit
After spraying, allow the unit to dry (usually about 30 minutes), then run it in “fan mode” for another 30 minutes to help remove moisture.
Where to Buy Products or Book a Service
You can find basic cleaning products at:
- Don Quijote (ドン・キホーテ): Affordable and foreigner-friendly.
- Yodobashi Camera or Bic Camera: They carry A/C sprays and accessories.
- Daiso or Seria: 100 yen shops sometimes offer small brushes and filters.
For professional cleaning (recommended once a year), search for:
- Kurashino Market (くらしのマーケット): A Japanese site with English-friendly options to book home services, including A/C cleaning.
- Tokyo Gas Group (even in Kansai): Offers high-quality, reliable maintenance.
- Local handyman services: Ask your property manager or check local Facebook expat groups for recommendations.
Final Tip from Apollo Properties
At Apollo Properties, we always recommend our tenants clean their A/C filters at least once every 1–2 months during heavy use, and schedule a professional clean annually. It’s a small task that makes a big difference in comfort, health, and energy savings.
If you ever have questions about how to care for your unit, don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re here to help make your stay in Osaka as comfortable as possible.
🧼❄️ Stay cool and breathe easy this summer!
👉 https://apollopropertiesosaka.com