How Do Professionals Clean an Air Conditioner?

Before you start cleaning your AC unit, turn off the power. Cleaning your air conditioning while it is on is dangerous and may endanger your health or the system’s coils and fins.

Step 2: Replace or Clean the Filter

Your AC unit has reusable or replaceable filters in the air-handler cabinets or furnace. If you want to maintain proper airflow in your home, it is essential to replace or sanitize the filters every six months (or when they become clogged with dirt and debris).

Step 3: Sanitize the AC Condenser Coils

Before you start with coil cleaning, remove the top and side panels from the AC unit. Use a nut driver or screwdriver to unscrew the panels and pull them away from the unit. Carefully lift the top and avoid pulling any wires or cables. Use a soft brush or a coil cleaner to clean the coils from the outside. You need to be very careful when cleaning the condenser unit and the coils because they have delicate parts that you may easily tug. If, by any chance, you bend the fins, use a fin comb to straighten them. Don’t forget to clean and vacuum the condenser unit from the inside!

Step 4: Clean the Debris from the Condenser

Be sure to remove debris, grass clippings, and leaves to avoid blockage in the filter or the condenser’s base. For the blower’s blades, use a rag or vacuum to clean it. Apply a few drops of oil into the ports (only if the motor has oil ports) and mop up any excess water. Remove any twigs or weeds that may reduce airflow through the outdoor unit.

Step 5: Check the Refrigerator Lines

You will find the refrigerator lines covered with insulation, which spreads from the evaporator coils to the outdoor condenser. If the insulation shows damage, replace the foam with a new one to improve your air conditioning system’s performance.

Step 6: Run Your Air Conditioner

Next, turn the power back on and activate your AC unit.