The Right Way To Clean Your Air Conditioning Unit

Your air conditioning unit does much more than keep you cool in the summer. It also helps maintain safe indoor air quality.

If you want a comfortable home with clean air and reasonable energy costs, you need to know how to clean your air conditioner. A well-maintained unit improves air quality, runs more efficiently, and won’t need servicing as often.

This blog will act as a DIY AC cleaning guide, but if you’d rather have the pros do it for you, reach out to High Point Plumbing, Air Conditioning, and Heating Repair for the best HVAC services in Sparwood, BC.

Cleaning Your AC in Sparwood, BC, Isn’t Optional

Even if you follow air conditioner maintenance tips, dirt and debris can still build up inside your unit. This will block airflow and make your system work harder to cool your home. When your system runs longer like this, it raises energy bills and wears out parts faster.

Cleaning your unit helps it run efficiently and last longer. It also reduces dust, allergens, and mold so the people living in your home can enjoy cleaner air.

What You Need Before You Start Cleaning 

Your first order of business is to gather the right tools and check for safety hazards.

You’ll need a vacuum with a soft brush attachment, coil cleaner, a hose, a screwdriver, gloves, and protective eyewear. You can mix a small amount of detergent in warm water for a cleaning solution or use diluted bleach if you prefer.

It is extremely important that you remember to turn off the power to your unit before starting. AC systems run on 240 volts and can seriously injure or kill you if you aren’t careful.

If you don’t feel comfortable with HVAC unit cleaning, the pros at High Point Plumbing, Air Conditioning, and Heating Repair can do it for you at an affordable price.

How To Clean the Indoor Unit (Evaporator Coils and Filter)

There are three steps to cleaning your air conditioner; the first is filter and coil cleaning.

The evaporator coils absorb heat from the air in your home. When they’re covered in dust and grime, your AC has to work harder to cool the air. A dirty filter makes things worse by blocking airflow, leading to frozen coils and poor performance.

To clean the evaporator coils, turn off the power to your unit. Take off the access panel to reach the coils. Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove loose dust. Then, apply a coil cleaner and let it sit for the recommended time. Wipe away any remaining dirt with a cloth or rinse with water if the cleaner requires it.

Check the filter while you’re there. If it looks dirty, replace it. A clean filter helps your system run smoothly and keeps dust from building up on the coils again.

How To Clean the Outdoor Unit (Condenser Coils and Surroundings)

The process for cleaning the condenser coils is similar to cleaning the evaporator coils, but outdoor units collect more dirt, leaves, and debris.

Turn off the power. Clear the area around the unit. Use a vacuum with a soft brush to remove loose dirt. Apply coil cleaner, let it sit, and then rinse with a garden hose from the inside out.

Never use a pressure washer. The force can bend the fins and damage the unit. Following proper condenser cleaning procedures helps your system run efficiently and last longer.

Checking and Cleaning the Condensate Drain

A clogged condensate drain can cause mold growth and water damage. Keeping it clear helps your AC run properly and prevents leaks.

Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water from the drain pan. Flush the drain pipe with a diluted bleach solution to break up clogs. Pour water into the drain opening and check that it flows outside as expected.

If the drain is still clogged, repeat the process or call a professional.