How To Clean Air Conditioning Unit
A properly functioning, clean air conditioning unit will help you turn your house into a comfortable and cozy place to relax and rest. Over time, you may notice that your unit is working less efficiently and isn’t achieving proper cooling levels.
You can improve the efficiency of your air conditioning unit by ensuring that you clean it regularly. As a result, you will have less downtime due to unexpected repairs. Additionally, proper cleaning helps you save on the energy bill. However, before you consider giving your AC a proper cleaning service by yourself, it is important to note that:
- The process might require you to use specialized tools.
- The AC cleaning process usually takes some time.
- The process involves dexterity and precision.
Although it is possible to clean your unit yourself, it would be best to look for a professional to carry out this cleaning task. This is because the AC cleaning process requires some skill as well as patience for better results. Be sure to seek expert help with your AC unit if you notice a large amount of wear and tear.
Below is a guide from Mike Bryant Heating & Cooling in Olathe on how you can effectively clean your air conditioning unit.
1. Turn Off the Power Supply
Generally, it is hazardous to clean your AC unit while it’s running. That is because air conditioners contain some moving parts. If you have an indoor AC unit, be sure to arrange for adequate lighting. Usually, you will find the power point in the exterior compressor and condenser in the service box. If you cannot find the service panel, be sure to turn it off from the breaker box.
2. Replace or Clean AC Unit Filters
Cleaning or replacing your AC filters is the most significant part of maintaining a clean AC unit. Some AC units have reusable filters while others have replaceable ones.
It is recommended that you read through the manual to find out if replacing the filters is the only option. Generally, filters are either near or inside the airflow paths. It is also significant to note that the way you remove the filters usually differs depending on the unit type.
Cleaning the filters helps you maintain sufficient airflow. If possible, make sure you replace or clean the AC filters a minimum of once or twice a year.
3. Clean the Condenser Coils
For you to be able to clean the AC condenser coils, remove the top and side panels. You may need to use a nut driver, screwdriver or other fasteners when removing the condenser unit’s protective grilles.
Unscrew and pull the panels away. Then, lift the top while avoiding tugging on the fan’s attached wires. Next, use a refrigerator coil brush or any other soft brush to clean your air conditioner coils.
Exercise caution as you clean the coils to avoid bending them or the delicate fins. Note that it might not be possible to straighten the fins once bent. After cleaning the coils from the outside, vacuum them from the inside.
Additionally, the coils might have some stubborn debris and dirt on them, so you might have to use a commercial cleaner to remove it. You only need to carefully spray the fins and coils, avoiding electrical components and fans. This type of cleaner will foam up and then dissolve into the drain pan. Also, you may use a hose to remove dirt from the inside of your unit. However, be sure to cover the electrical components to avoid flooding them.
4. Clean the Condenser
Your air conditioner might also have some debris and leaves around its base. Please make sure you clear and clean it for proper functioning. Also, be sure to remove any substance from the drain if your AC unit has one. In addition, you need to vacuum the fan blades and use a rag to gently clean them.
Furthermore, be sure to fasten any loose bolts. You may apply some oil to the fan motor if it has some oil ports. Remember to dry out the unit from inside. After cleaning your air conditioner, ensure that you reassemble the condenser as you remove any twigs, weeds, or vines.
5. Refrigerant Tubes
While cleaning your AC unit, remember to check out the refrigerant tubes. They are usually covered to prevent energy loss. Look for any insulation damage, and be sure to replace it if you find any. You can also wrap the tube using insulation tape.
6. Test Your Air Conditioning Unit
Once you are satisfied with the cleaning process, you can turn on the condenser. Remember to adjust your AC unit to the desired levels as you activate it.
Top-Quality, Reliable Service Technicians Available
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