How to Clean the Coils on a Room Air Conditioner

In today's economically challenged and environmentally conscious society, ensuring that home appliances run efficiently is important. Appliances such as room air conditioners will run much more efficiently if they have been properly cleaned and maintained. Efficiently running room air conditioners can not only cool your room better, but can also save you money on your electric bill. One of the most important elements to keep clean in a room air conditioner are the coils. In fact, cleaning the coils may eliminate the need for a professional repair man.

Things You'll Need

• Bucket
• Sponge
• Dish soap
• Garden hose with spray nozzle
• Vacuum cleaner
• Plastic bag
• Towel

Instructions

Instructions

1. Remove the front cover or metal housing from your air conditioner unit. Wash the filter with warm soapy water and rinse it thoroughly. Wipe down the housing and/or exterior of the air conditioner until it is completely clean. Allow the filter and housing to air dry.

2. Vacuum the evaporator coil to remove any dirt or debris. Be sure to vacuum all sides and folds of the evaporator coil. The evaporator coil is located in the front of the air conditioner.

3. Find the motor and wrap it in the plastic bag. Using the garden hose, spray the condenser coil from the outside in. The condenser coil can be found in the back of the air conditioner. After rinsing, remove the plastic bag. Using a clean towel, dry off all visible parts of the air conditioner and allow the unit to air dry completely before reassembling and storing it for the winter.

Tips & Warnings

• Always unplug the air conditioner before cleaning to avoid electric shock.

References

• Reader's Digest: Clean a window air conditioner