How to Clean Central Air Conditioning Coils

A central air condenser--the large unit outside the home--needs regular cleaning to ensure that it continues to function properly. A dirty unit will not bring in proper airflow, and this will cause a drop in the effectiveness of the unit to introduce cool air to the home. A dirty unit will also be overworked and could break down, leading to costly repairs or replacement.

Things You'll Need

• Hose
• Spray nozzle for hose
• Small cleaning brush

Instructions

1. Locate the area to be cleaned. On an outside unit, you will want to make sure that the coils are free of debris. This is a typical problem in spring, when pollen is apt to be drawn into the unit. The coils surround the central air condenser and look similar to a radiator.

2. Attach the spray nozzle to the garden hose. Use a powerful jet of water to dislodge as much debris as possible. Spray the jet of water around all sides of the condenser unit. Spray from the top down, working across the vents from side to side.

3. Use the cleaning brush to scrub the vents. Many items are difficult to dislodge from the condenser. While it does not have to be entirely free of every piece of dirt, it cannot be too clean either.

4. Use the spray nozzle again to work the loosened debris free of the condenser. Use the same method as before, working from side to side and top to bottom. There is no need to dry the unit.

Tips & Warnings

• Covering the unit in the winter will help reduce the amount of debris and the cleaning required. In early spring, cleaning may be required several times. You should also clean the interior of the unit, as possible, by spraying down through the fan opening.

• Perform the cleaning while the unit is turned off. While the working parts are generally well encapsulated, there is no sense in risking injury from the fan blade.

References

• Troubleshooting Site for Central Air Units