How to Clean and Maintain an Air Conditioner
An air conditioner requires regular cleaning and maintenance to operate more quietly and efficiently. Failing to perform the necessary upkeep on your unit results in decreased performance as well as increased energy use. Clean and maintain your air conditioner at the end of the cooling season to prepare it for winter, and again in the spring before turning it on again. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Vacuum
- All-purpose cleaner
- Soft cloth or paper towel
- Screwdriver
- Specialized fin comb or fine-toothed comb
- Bleach
Instructions
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Room Air-Conditioning Units
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1
Clean or replace the air filter. A filter that is clogged with dust and pollen causes the unit to work harder and use more energy. Cleaning or replacing the filter improves indoor air quality, keep dust at bay and reduce allergens. During the cooling season, clean or change the air filter at a minimum of once every three months. Unplug the unit before opening or removing the front cover. Remove the filter and replace it with a new one. Alternatively, you may wash it in mild soapy water and rinse it, but squeeze out excess water and allow it to dry before reinstalling. Vacuum the cover and wipe it clean before replacing it.
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2
Clean the condensing unit exterior. Vacuum insects, leaves and debris using vacuum attachments, and use an all-purpose cleaner to wipe away oily residue. This part of the air conditioner cleaning is especially important, since dirt and dust clog fins and reduce the efficiency of the unit.
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3
Clean the cooling coils. Remove the unit from the wall or window and remove the screws that secure the housing in place. Vacuum the coils with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris.
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4
Gently straighten out any bent fins. Purchase a specialized fin comb from an HVAC supplier, or use a fine-toothed hair comb. Bent fins restrict airflow into the unit and decrease its effectiveness.
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5
Clean the drain hole and tray. Remove the tray if possible and wipe it clean. Pull the drain tube out from its connection at the base of the compressor. A thin wire may be used to clear any obstructions. Flush the tube with bleach water and reattach it. Some units may not have a drain tube---look for drain channels in the tray and wipe those clean.
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6
Lubricate the fan motor and replenish the oil port. Most new air conditioners don't require additional oil, but older models may feature an oil port.
Central Air-Conditioning Units
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7
Shut off power to the unit at the main panel as well as the disconnect box before performing air conditioner maintenance.
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8
Remove the screws on the access panels and those at the top of the unit. Pull slowly when removing the top housing. The fan unit is likely attached, and pulling too hard may disconnect electrical wires.
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9
Clean the fan blades. Vacuum debris that has collected around them and wipe the blades with a damp cloth.
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10
Vacuum the coils from both the outside and inside of the unit, as well as the fins. Use a brush attachment to dislodge debris.
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11
Lubricate oil cups on the motor and tighten the motor's mounting bolts before replacing the access panels and housing.
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Tips & Warnings
Cover your air conditioner prior to winter to prevent leaves and ice from getting into the condenser. Wall and window units should be covered or removed to stop cold air from entering the home. Turn off power to the unit so it cannot be turned on while it is covered.
Although air conditioners all work in the same way, refer to the instruction manual for your particular unit for specifics regarding cleaning and maintenance.
References
Resources
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