How to clean an AC condenser and other tips for regular central air conditioner maintenance You should refer any serious central air conditioner problems such as a defective condenser or a malfunctioning refrigeration system to a trained air-conditioner technician. However, simply keeping the components clean helps prevent most common problems. Most systems have a replaceable or reusable filter in the furnace or air-handler cabinet (usually located inside or very near the air-inlet side). Some systems also employ air filters in the return-air registers inside the house. Replace disposable filters twice a year, or clean a reusable filter according to the manufacturer’s directions. It is also important to keep the outdoor condenser unit clean and free of debris. Before doing this, you must shut off all power to the unit, both at the main panel and at the disconnect box located near the condenser. Remove or trim any weeds or bushes around the condenser that might restrict airflow through the unit.

Then use a screwdriver or nut driver to remove the access panels and the top of the unit. Because the fan unit is often attached to the top, you need to be careful not to stress the electrical wires connected to it. Cleaning the blower’s fan blades will keep your air conditioner operating efficiently and quietly. Use a rag to wipe them off and scoop up or vacuum any debris at the base of the equipment. Tighten the mounting bolts on the motor and lubricate any oil cups on the motor according to the manufacturer’s directions. Next, use a soft brush and a vacuum to clean the coils from the outside and then from the inside of the unit. In most cases, there is dirt and debris caked in the recesses between the fins, and this can be very stubborn to remove. (See Preparing Your Air Conditioner for Summer for a complete walk-through of this process.) For more about repairing an air conditioner, please see Central Air Conditioning Troubleshooting & Repairs.How To Clean Your Central Air ConditionerCleaning you central air conditioner is a very important and smart thing to do.

With the hot summer months approaching your central air conditioner will work harder and raise your utility bill quite a bit if the unit is dirty. So, in the hub I will explain some simple, yet effective methods to clean your air conditioner and make it operate more efficient. How To Clean The Outside Condenser UnitLets start with the outside condenser unit. air handling units installationIt has small fins all around it, that suck up all kinds of debris while it is running. ac unit manualsIt will accumulate dust, dirt, leaves, little pieces of grass cuttings, etc. cost of window air conditionerThis part of the air conditioner must be cleaned at least once a month for your air conditioner to operate effectively. Start by shutting of the quick disconnect to the unit.

After you are sure all power has ceased to the unit, spray the aluminum fins with a mild detergent like palmolive, or even laundry soap will work. Just mix water and the detergent in a spray bottle, and give the fins a good soaking. Let the mixture soak into the fins for five minutes or so, the take your garden sprayer and spray the fins out at a 45 degree angle, until the water runs clear and you are sure you have gotten all the dirt and grime out. How To Clean The Evaporator CoilsOk, now that the outside condenser coil is cleaned, we need to clean the evaporator coil, or sometimes called an A coil of our air conditioner. The evaporator coil is located inside the home above the furnace and main duct. Make sure all power is off to the air conditioning unit and furnace. Find the panel that covers the evaporator coil, it is usually covered with foil tape. Remove the foil tape, and the screws holding on the panel. Once removed you will see the evaporator coils. Start by taking a shop vacuum and suck up all the dust and lint off of them.

Next spray your solution of detergent and water all over the evaporator coils. Let them soak for awhile, then rinse. I suggest doing this gradually so your drip pan does not overflow so much. There will be some overflow, but not to worry. Once cleaned make sure the drip pan is free of debris, and put a little household bleach in the pan, and down the drain hose. This keeps mold from forming in the pan and pipe and blocking them. Replace the panel, screw and tape it back up. We are finished with the evaporator coils now, and are off to the next step. Next We Are Going To Clean The Air Intake So you are probably wondering where is the air intake at on your air conditioner system. Well it is located along the base of your wall somewhere in your home close to the evaporator. Just look around for it, it should be easy to find. Well this vent needs to be removed and cleaned with a small broom or shop vacuum. Vacuum all the dust and lint off of it. I would suggest then taking it oustide and clean it with a small toothbrush and soap and water.

Let it dry, and then replace it. Conclusion Now that we are finished with everything, You need to put an nice clean filter in your air conditioner. Let everything dry for at least thirty minutes, then restore power, turn it on, and enjoy all the money you will be saving now, and the more efficient operation of your central air conditioner. More by this AuthorRecycling TechnologyScrapping Metals, Like Copper, Aluminum, And Brass From Everyday Items, And Get The Best Price Per PoundHow to collect valuable metal like Copper, Aluminum, and Brass from everyday items, and make a great income. Details on how to find scrap metal, how to tear it down, and sale it for a profit. Making Extra Money Through Odd JobsLawn Care Business Strategies For DummiesLawn Care Business tips and strategy. Learn how to get customers, keep them, and make good money. Making Extra Money Through Odd JobsHow Do I Create A Cleaning Company/BusinessA cleaning business is an easy and lucrative thing to do.