More than 90% of US households have air conditioning. Not only are they great for hot summer days, but they can remove pollutants from the air as well.
Like all machines, however, maintenance is crucial. This means adjusting the thermostat and inspecting the ductwork.
Regular cleaning is also important. Ideally, you want to do it once a month during the cooling season.
Is that what you’re trying to do? Looking for a guide on how to clean air conditioners? If so, you’re at the right place. Keep reading to learn more about the topic!
Cleaning the Indoor Unit
The indoor unit consists of a blower fan and evaporator; it’s typically located in the basement or closet.
Start by turning off the power. Once the electricity is off, open up the AC unit (there are usually a few screws or bolts on the door); that’ll allow you to access the evaporator coils.
Mix some warm water with a bit of detergent in a spray bottle and apply it to the coils. Leave it on for a few minutes so that it can loosen the debris and rinse with distilled water.
Next, you want to clean the AC drain pan. We recommend using a 50/50 mixture of water and bleach; that’ll help sanitize the surface. There are also drain pan tablets that you can get at hardware stores.
Last but not least, you want to clean the air filter (assuming that it’s washable). Fill a sink with one part water and one part white vinegar and let it soak for one hour. Rinse it with water afterward and let it dry completely before putting it back in the AC unit.
For those with disposable filters, you want to replace them every 90 days; that’ll prevent it from clogging.
Cleaning the Outside Unit
Shut off the power by pressing the disconnect switch on the outdoor box. Remove the screws on top of the unit and take off the protective metal case.
Use a vacuum with a soft bristle brush attachment to clean the condenser fins. You can also use an air conditioner fin comb; they’re specifically designed to clean the interior and exterior fins of the AC unit.
When you’re finished, replace the metal case. Make sure that the area surrounding the AC unit is clear of debris for at least 2 feet in all directions—that’ll ensure optimal airflow.
If that sounds like too much work for you, you can always hire AC maintenance services instead.
Knowing How to Clean Air Conditioners
Now you know how to clean air conditioners! Remember, you want to do it regularly—that’ll keep the unit running efficiently so that you won’t run into any problems. Why not get the most out of your AC, right?
Was this air conditioner cleaning guide helpful? For more posts like this, be sure to check out the home life section of our blog!
