Nothing feels as good as coming in from the heat outside into a well-conditioned and refreshed house. Good air conditioning is part of what makes the home comfortable in the summer months.
However, as time goes by, home owners might notice that the excellent air conditioning that they experienced, shortly after installing the air conditioning system, is no more. This could be due to various causes, such as failed components in the unit or simply a lack of cleaning.
Cleaning the AC unit is critical
Cleaning the AC unit is critical if home owners want to ensure that their air conditioning unit is well maintained. Additionally, regular cleaning will help them save the system from expensive repairs. It’ll also minimize electricity costs and keep the home comfortable and pleasant.
Cleaning an air conditioner is a process that involves multiple components. For most air conditioners, cleaning involves the following parts:
- Indoor AC component that contains the evaporator coils
- Outdoor AC component that houses the condenser coil
- The AC filter
- Complete the following steps to successfully clean the air conditioner
Home owners should carry out the following steps to effectively clean their AC unit:
- Switch Off the Power Supply
An air conditioning unit consists of many electrical parts. For safety purposes, turn off any power supply to the air conditioner components. This can be done at the power breaker unit. This means that home owners will not have any lighting, so they should do the cleaning during the day. If the indoor component is in a dark part of the house, ensure setting up enough alternative lighting.
- Unlock the Interior of the Unit
The indoor part of the air conditioner often comes with a door that opens into the evaporator. Additionally, home owners might need to remove any duct tape or screws holding this air conditioning door in place.
- Clean the Evaporator Coils
Cleaning the debris from the evaporator coils will require soft scrubbing with a soft brush. Some of the materials one might encounter include fine dust, pollen, and dander. Therefore, it is a great idea to ensure that home owners have the right gear to protect themselves from inhaling this dirt. In addition to the brush, they will also need to use a no-rinse cleaner. This cleaner is mainly in the form of a spray that will build up foam and then dissolve into the drainage pan of the AC unit.
- Drain Pan Cleaning
Home owners can use hot water and soap to clean the drain pan. They may also need a bleaching agent to sanitize the pan.
- Reattach the Access Door and Screw It Back On
Once the cleaning of the indoor component is complete, re-attach the access panel or door, and screw it back on. Home owners can also use a new piece of foil duct tape to attach the panel, if the included screws aren’t easily attainable.
- Clean the Debris in the External Component
If the AC model doesn’t have a guard that prevents debris from falling from the fan unit, remove the debris by scooping it out or vacuuming it out. For models with a guard, there will be a small amount of debris stuck firmly on the upper side of the fan. Home owners can use a soap and water solution to clean the upper side and eliminate any dirt that could be difficult to remove.
- Clean the Coils and Straighten the Fins
Cleaning the outdoor component coils requires a solution that can be purchased at any home renovation store. Condenser coil cleaning solutions are very acidic and known to cause scalding. Therefore, make sure to wear protective gear before this process. After the cleaning, straighten the fins and ensure that the fan can rotate without blockage.
- Clean the Filter
Finally, clean the AC filter by using a vacuum cleaner. Soak the filter in water mixed with regular detergent, and move it around to ensure that it fully absorbs the solution. Spray a solution of water and vinegar on the filter to kill any bacteria, and dry it in the sun.
Skilled and Reliable Technicians
Though cleaning an air conditioner is a task that home owners can probably do during their spare time, sometimes it can be a bit daunting. Additionally, the AC unit might get broken in the process. It’s best to contact a certified professional from Island Heating & Air Conditioning to do the cleaning work.
Island Heating & Air Conditioning offer other services, such as replacement and installation, maintenance, and repair of heating systems and AC units for Oak Harbor residents. Some other services provided include duct cleaning services, ductless system service, air purification systems, and indoor air quality audits.