Person cleaning AC unit outside

How To Clean Air Conditioning Unit


An air conditioner plays an important role in keeping you and your family cool during the summer months. One way to prepare your air conditioning unit for the summer is to give it a cleaning before you use it. Cleaning your air conditioner can boost its efficiency and help you avoid many problems in the future.

Here are a few tips on how to clean your air conditioning unit.

Disconnect Power and Remove the AC Grille

You will need to always disconnect the power to your air conditioner before you begin the cleaning process. You can remove the AC grille by taking out the sheet metal screws once the power is off. The majority of units have plenty enough slack in the wires to remove the top without the need for disconnecting any wires.

Remove Debris

The next step is to remove all of the debris in the air conditioner. Debris can quickly accumulate during the winter months, as taking the extra time to remove the debris is well worth the effort in keeping your system well-maintained and working at an efficient level.

Clean the Coils and Fins

Once you remove all of the debris, you will need to clean the coils and fins by using a clean solution. You can choose from several cleaning solutions at a home improvement store, as it’s important to always follow the directions. Using a pump sprayer to spray the cleaning solution on your coils and wait for it to foam up within a few minutes. Afterward, you can use a garden to wash the solution off.

Clean Around the Outdoor Unit

Keeping the area clean around your outdoor unit is important for efficiency. Removing built-up debris will allow your air conditioner to easily cool your home without the risk of overheating. Typically, it’s a good idea to clean at 2 feet in each direction for optimal airflow.

Real HVAC Services offers heating and cooling services for customers in Maryland and Delaware. We also specialize in plumbing, duct cleaning, and indoor air quality services. Give Real HVAC Services a phone call or send us an email today to learn more!

Published: August 01, 2022

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