Air Conditioning Care Tips
The summer season is about to arrive, and now is the time to tackle air conditioning and furnace problems that could be affecting the performance of your HVAC system. Before the start of the summer months, you should be sure to clean out your furnace filters. With services from a company that offers furnace repair near Dayton, you can make sure that your air conditioning and HVAC systems are clean and ready for seasonal use.
Three Easy Care Steps
To help you maintain your system between professional services, let’s take a look at three easy ways to clean inside your air conditioner.
Remove and Wipe Down the Covers Clean Inside an Air Conditioner
Your air conditioner condenser unit is a large, square shaped appliance that is located on the exterior of your home. During the winter months, the exterior covers of the condenser can get covered with dirt, grime, and other types of debris. To restore the clean appearance of your condenser unit and improve its overall performance, you should take the time to routinely remove and wipe down its cover using a soft cloth.
Wash the Reusable Filter
Many of today’s air conditioners are equipped with reusable filters, which can be washed and reused many times. After you have taken off the exterior covers from the air conditioning condenser unit, you will be ready to remove and wash its air filter. To safely wash your air filter, it is possible to simply dunk it in a bucket of warm, soapy water. Once the filter has completely dried, it can be put back into place.
Vacuum the Condenser Coils
Using your household vacuum, you can help your air conditioner achieve the deepest level of clean. Once you have placed the hose attachment to your vacuum, you will be able to easily vacuum out your air conditioner’s condenser coils and other interior spaces. The vacuum will remove leaves, grass clippings, and other types of debris that could be clogging up your system and affecting its performance.
FAQs
How often should I clean my air conditioner?
Ideally, you should clean your air conditioner at least once a year, typically before or after the peak cooling season. If you have pets or live in a dusty environment, cleaning every 6 months may be beneficial.
What tools will I need to clean my air conditioner?
You’ll need a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, a soft cloth, a coil cleaner, a can of compressed air, a fin comb, and a mild detergent for cleaning the filters and coils.
Can I clean the air conditioner myself, or should I call a professional?
While some basic cleaning tasks like cleaning filters and wiping down surfaces can be done by homeowners, professional maintenance is recommended for deep cleaning of coils, refrigerant lines, and the overall system.
How do I clean the air filters?
Turn off the unit and remove the filters. Wash them with warm soapy water, rinse them thoroughly, and allow them to dry completely before replacing them.
What’s the best way to clean the coils?
Use a soft brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris from the evaporator and condenser coils. For tougher buildup, you can use a coil cleaner or compressed air.
Is it safe to clean the inside of my air conditioner?
Yes, it’s safe as long as the unit is powered off before cleaning. Be careful not to damage delicate components, especially the coils and fins.
How do I prevent mold and bacteria buildup inside my air conditioner?
Regularly clean and dry your filters, coils, and other components to prevent moisture buildup. You can also use anti-microbial sprays specifically designed for HVAC systems
What should I do if my air conditioner is still not cooling after cleaning?
If cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue, you may need a professional technician to inspect the refrigerant levels or diagnose any potential mechanical issues within the unit.
Can I use any cleaning products to clean my air conditioner?
It’s best to use products specifically designed for air conditioners, such as mild detergents and coil cleaners. Harsh chemicals can damage components and reduce efficiency.