Make it gleam
Before the all too familiar hot and sticky weather hits your doorstep in Cumming, GA, you’ll want to make sure that your air conditioner is running at peak performance. No one wants to be sitting in a muggy home in the middle of summer, wishing they had taken some preventative steps to help their air conditioner run smoother. Before you head out to Hitters or Mary Alice Beach Park on this beautiful day, try out some of these cleaning tips to keep your air conditioner running top notch.
Note: Unplug and power off the entire air conditioner system before performing any cleaning duties on it.
Indoor
Fresh filter
Replacing or cleaning your filter is listed as the first step for having a clean air conditioner, because it’s one of the easiest and most effective steps toward a clean cooling system. If you neglect your air filter for too long, airflow is inhibited by a build of dust and whatever else cakes onto it. This is no good for your cooling system or your energy bill. The excessive strain over the years can lead to a premature AC replacement or costly repairs. Who would want to spend a hot summer day at a wholesale air conditioner or home improvement store?
Clean drain tubes
Where there’s water, there’s a chance for pesky growths to form, such as mold and mildew. Locate the drain and evaporator pipes and clean them out thoroughly with a thin wire brush. Rinse until the water runs clear.
Clean evaporator coil (if accessible)
The evaporator coil is usually located behind a panel somewhere on the furnace. If you’re having trouble finding it, refer to the owner’s manuals for your furnace and air conditioner. Once accessible, spray down the coils with a coil cleaner (purchased from a wholesale air conditioner or hardware store) and let soak for 10-15 minutes. Wipe clean.
Outdoor
Trim up around outdoor unit
If there are any blockages within two feet of your outdoor condenser unit (air conditioner), clear them away in order to improve airflow.
Vacuum or sweep away debris and dirt on the outside
Suck or sweep any leaves, grass cuttings, or any other types of debris that are on your condenser. Remember: any obstructions to airflow on your air conditioner are costing you energy and money in the long run.
Remove top grille, clean inside
Unscrew the top grille and remove. Be mindful of the wires attached to the fan. Repeat the previous step of clearing away debris on the inside of the condenser. Wipe down any surfaces that appear dirty with a mild soap.
Wipe down fan blades
While the top grille is off, carefully hold the fan steady and wipe down the fan blades. Check for damage or rust on the blades. These may need replacing if they’re in bad shape.
Hose off fins from the inside out
Since you’ve already cleared away the dry debris from the inside of the condenser, it’s time to hose down the countless array of fins that encapsulate the condenser. Spray the fins down with medium intensity water pressure (no power washers!) from the inside out. This will dislodge and push out any dried-up dirt and dust. If you notice any bent fins, use an inexpensive tool called a fin comb (located at wholesale air conditioner or home improvement stores). This will further improve airflow for those hot summers
Forget an AC replacement. Now that you’ve cleaned your air conditioner, it should run smooth for many more hot summers. Don’t neglect it, or you’ll regret it.