Giving your window air conditioner a thorough cleaning on the inside is usually the best way to fix issues, including an E8 error code.
The error codes on air conditioners are not all bad, in fact, they can often help you to spot an issue way before it becomes a much larger problem.
If your window air conditioner (AC) is displaying an E8 error code, this likely indicates that there is an issue with the compressor.
Cleaning the unit thoroughly and ensuring that the ambient temperature is within the ideal range, should fix this issue.
The point of error code displays
It can be quite difficult to remember that error codes are actually built into most air conditioners to help you. Especially when this error code is the thing preventing you from turning on your air conditioner on a hot day.
These error codes only display when the internal sensors on your air conditioner unit have picked up that the unit is not functioning as it should. They are actually meant to help you identify what the problem is (and, hopefully, solve it).
How to fix an E8 error code on a window air conditioner
Generally, every air conditioner brand will have its own list of codes and an explanation of what each of these codes mean. So it is always best to consult your owner’s manual or the support team when you encounter this type of error, first.
However, if you are in a bind, an E8 error code on most window air conditioners usually signifies that the system is overloaded.
There are various reasons why this could be, but it is usually due, in part, to the fact that the unit’s compressor is overheating or malfunctioning.
If you have noticed that the ambient temperature or humidity in your space is much more than it usually is or that it is outside of your unit’s ideal range, this error is probably being caused by the fact that the compressor is overheating.
The only thing that you can really do in this situation is wait for the temperature and humidity to decrease before resetting the unit and trying again.
If this happens often, you may want to consider getting a thermometer-hygrometer-combo device like this ThermoPro TP50 for easier monitoring.
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As a good rule of thumb, giving your window air conditioner a good, thorough cleaning is usually the best, simplest and cheapest way to resolve any issues. This ensure that all of the unit’s components are operating as they should.
How to get started
Before you jump into cleaning your air conditioner, there are a couple of things that you should take note of. Firstly, you should always ensure that your window AC unit is off and unplugged before you start opening up the unit.
You may not always have to remove the unit from the wall entirely, but it can make cleaning it much simpler if it is awkwardly placed or high up.
Also, remember to look around for any loose wiring or faulty components while you are opening up the unit, as this may require a professional repair.
What you will need to clean your air conditioner
Cleaning a window air conditioner is not an overly-complicated process and you will only need a few basic materials, namely:
- A screwdriver
- A spray bottle filled with water and a little bit of dish soap
- A rag, a larger soft brush and a smaller, detail brush
- A garden hose
- An air duster can
Cleaning your window air conditioner thoroughly
The dirt and grime that accumulates on the inside of an air conditioner can impair airflow, prevent components from moving normally and even cause the unit to overheat or develop an odor.
Cleaning your unit thoroughly once in a while is crucial to maintaining its operation in the long term. To clean the unit thoroughly, you need to follow these steps:
- Step 1: Remove the air filters and spray them down with the diluted soap mixture
- Step 2: Spray down all of the covers, panels and the case with the same mixture (be careful not to get the electrical components wet) and scrub them carefully with the brushes to reach all of the nooks and crannies
- Step 3: Spray down the coils and carefully brush them to get rid of any dirt
- Step 4: Use the compressed air to get rid of any leaves and dirt at the bottom of your unit
- Step 5: Spray all of the soapy elements down with the garden hose to get rid of any residue
It is imperative that you let all of the unit’s components dry thoroughly before reassembling it.