Air conditioners work to provide us with cool and safe indoor air by filtering different types of airborne impurities. Unfortunately, with this continual process, dust, dirt, or even debris can accumulate in the air conditioning system over time.
To remove all that, you would need to clean your AC quite thoroughly. It is usually a challenging and physically demanding task, and that’s where we can help you. Rainier Heating & Cooling is a professional HVAC firm offering quality air conditioner service in Puyallup and surrounding areas.
Air conditioner maintenance, starting from cleaning your AC unit, is essential to keep it running like new or to extend its lifespan. Learn how you can do it on your own.
Note: A Few Things You May Need
- A screwdriver (all-in-one, in some cases)
- A spray bottle
- A soft brush
- A cloth or rag
- Water supply
- Garden hose
Tips to Clean Your AC Unit
Turn Off the Power
Cleaning an appliance full of electrical and mechanical components with water can be dangerous. Hence, to ensure the best safety, you should first turn off the power for the AC unit from the circuit breaker box.
Clean the Front Cover & Filter
You will need to remove your AC’s front cover; depending on your AC manufacturer’s brand and model, there can be screws, push tabs, or knobs. Removing the cover will not be difficult once you locate the screws. Clean the cover with a soft cloth or brush (if needed) and remove the filter (generally located in the front of the AC and may be visible as you open the cover).
Dust your filter with a brush or rag before rinsing it with a mixture of water and soft soap. Leave it for some time to dry, and then place it back.
Clean the AC Coils
If you can see your AC coils by opening the cover, you should be able to clean them, brushing away dust or dirt. If required, you may also use slightly soapy water to remove some hard dirt patches and debris. However, if you can’t find coils, you might need to avoid doing it any further and let the professionals handle it. Look for a local HVAC contractor in Auburn, WA, for assistance.
Clean Your AC Vents & Ducts
Remove your AC vents and clean them first. Note that regularly cleaning your AC vents helps minimize the possibility of breakdowns, resulting in an efficient performance like a brand-new one. If you have ducts at your place, clean them too. The ductwork in your home or office carries the majority of dust and dirt collectively present in the entire air conditioning system; hence, it is pretty important to keep them clean.
Now, it’s time for the outdoor unit!
Shut Down the Power
Depending on your type of AC, you might have a separate power outlet for the outdoor unit (condenser). You should turn it off before starting to clean.
Unscrew the Top
Remove the top cover of the outdoor unit that will have its fan. You need not remove the wirings of the fan, as that is not required. However, keep it covered once you use water.
Clean the Unit
There can be dust, dirt, or debris on the walls of this unit. You can use a vacuum cleaner to remove them and other things like leaves, dry grass, seeds, etc., from the unit. Next, it is time to clean the condenser coils. Wash away all the sticky dirt using a garden hose but with limited water, and spray speed to avoid damaging the fins.
Do Some Fin Care
If the fin stock on the outdoor condenser unit is bent or has dirt that the water hose did not remove with the hose, you may need a fin tool. You can comb the fins, using it to remove all airflow restrictions.
Clean Its Surrounding Spots
There can be weed or grass grown around your outdoor unit, which can go inside the fins and the unit. Hence, it is advised to clean out the space around the unit and do it occasionally to keep it running as a new one.
How Often Should You Clean Your AC?
It is generally recommended to clean your AC filters, vents, and ducts every one or two months. However, if you find it dusty or dirty in a couple of weeks, you would need to clean it. Besides that, it is also advised to avoid doing it all on your own to avoid damaging some crucial parts or components to the extent that you would need a technician for AC repair in Auburn.
Keeping It Running Like New
While you are able to clean your AC unit, it is also advised to have it maintained by professionals. Air conditioning maintenance keeps your AC unit running like a new one for a long time. Are you looking for AC repair, maintenance, service, or tune-up? Contact Rainier Heating & Cooling – we are licensed and one of the best HVAC service providers in Puyallup, WA. With more than 15 years of experience in the HVAC industry and a team of skilled technicians, we ensure customer satisfaction and the best results.
Choose us for your air conditioning and heating needs or hire us for preventive maintenance services; we do it all with perfection and care. Talk to one of our experts today to learn more about our HVAC services and discuss your needs with us. Call (253) 600-2758.
