How to Clean Central Air Conditioning Unit Coils

Cleaning the central AC's coils will help the machine run at top efficiency.

It is very important to clean your central air conditioning unit coils at the beginning of summer. Clean coils will increase the efficiency of your air conditioner, which will lower your electric bills. You depend on your central air for cooling comfort during hot and humid weather. If you don't maintain it, you will not have the cool air you want, but you will have an electric bill you weren't expecting.

Things You'll Need

• Soft scrub brush or broom

Instructions

1. Shut off the power to your central air conditioning unit.

2. Sweep away dirt, leaves and debris from around the outside of the unit.

3. Remove the metal housing that covers the unit. Some times the housing is screwed on, and sometimes it's not.

4. Blow away accumulated dirt and debris with a leaf blower.

5. Cover all parts of the air conditioner, except for the coils, with plastic sheeting.

6. Direct a garden hose with strong water pressure at the coils, avoiding the plastic-covered parts.

7. Remove the plastic sheeting, replace the housing and turn the electricity back on.

Tips & Warnings

• Cleaning your central air conditioning unit will make a big difference

• Do not use a pressure washer -- the strong pressure may damage the coils.

References

• The Family Handyman: Cleaning Air Conditioners in the Spring