If you keep your outside AC unit clean
you can expect your system to run efficiently while prolonging its lifespan. If
you want to clean your unit on your own then here are a few tips that can help!
How
many times should you clean your outside unit?
For most owners, cleaning it twice a year is enough, once before winters as you will be using the heating and once before summers as you will want to turn on air conditioning.
What are the different supplies and tools needed to clean an outside unit?
Here is a list of tools that will come in handy
when cleaning the unit:
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For most owners, cleaning it twice a year is enough, once before winters as you will be using the heating and once before summers as you will want to turn on air conditioning.
What are the different supplies and tools needed to clean an outside unit?
1. Vacuum
2. Garden hose
3. Screwdriver
4. Replacement filter
5. Rags
6. Fin comb
7. Pipe cleaner
Preparation
Apart from cleaning the system, you will have to
remove any branches, leaves, sticks or other form of debris lying over and
around the unit. Also, you must never keep shrubs or plants too close to the
unit to ensure better air flow. From gum balls to pine needles and leaves and
tall weeds, ensure that the space around the unit is clean and clear.
Time to
clean!
1. Before starting, make sure the power to the outside
unit is switched off.
2. For any remains you could not clear away, a dry/wet
vacuum with a bristled attachment can help to capture any dirt, dust, or other
small debris from the system.
3. In case you observe the fins are bent, you can
use a butter knife or a fin comb or other small objects are useful for
straightening them.
4. Remove the AC filter after locating it, wash it
using a tough spray from the garden hose. If your filter is one that's made of
fiber or cardboard, buy a new one to replace the dirty one.
5. Remove the panel at the top and put it aside.
6.Inspect for dirt, dust, debris and other kind of
build-up that may impact operation. Once you have removed as much dirt as
possible just rinse it with a garden hose and clean away the remaining debris.
Be careful while vacuuming to make sure you don't end up damaging or bending
fins or coils.
7. To clean the fan blades, a wet rag is enough.
Check the vents of the fan and wipe or vacuum away any debris build-up.
8. Now it is time to get the access panel back in
its position. Just screw it in place, and turn on power.
Cleaning the outside of the AC is not that
challenging. However, effort and time spent will be all worth it as your family
will enjoy summers and winters comfortably.
