Neglecting this crucial task can lead to higher energy bills, reduced cooling capacity, and even system breakdowns. Fortunately, we’ve got you covered with our Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Your Outdoor AC Unit.
From simple DIY tips to professional maintenance tricks, we’ll show you everything you need to know for a cool and comfortable summer season.
So sit back, relax, and let’s get started!
What Parts of an Outdoor AC Unit Need to be Cleaned?
It’s important to keep your outdoor AC unit clean so that it can operate efficiently and effectively. There are several parts of the unit that need to be cleaned on a regular basis, including the:
- Condenser coils: These remove heat from the refrigerant and release it into the air. Over time, they can become covered in dust and dirt, which reduces their ability to dissipate heat. Cleaning the coils on a monthly basis will help ensure they are able to do their job properly.
- Evaporator coils: These absorb heat from the air inside your home and transfer it to the refrigerant. They can also become covered in dust and dirt over time, which reduces their ability to absorb heat effectively. Again, cleaning them on a monthly basis will help keep them working properly.
- Fan blades: The fan helps circulate air through the unit and helps cool the refrigerant. If the blades are dirty, they won’t be able to do their job as effectively. Cleaning them once a month will help ensure they are able to function properly.
- Drain line: This carries away any water that condenses on the evaporator coils. It can become clogged with dirt and debris over time, which can cause water to back up into the unit and lead to problems. Cleaning it out regularly will help prevent issues.
Tools and Materials Needed for Cleaning
In order to clean your outdoor AC unit, you will need the following tools and materials:
- A garden hose with a spray nozzle attachment
- A soft-bristled brush
- A putty knife or other sharp object (for removing stubborn dirt and grime)
- A bucket
- Mild dish soap
- Water
Begin by disconnecting the power to your AC unit. Next, use the garden hose to sprayed down the entire unit, paying special attention to any areas that look particularly dirty or grimy.
Use the soft-bristled brush to scrub away any remaining dirt and debris. If there are any stubborn spots, use the putty knife or other sharp object to scrape them away.
Once you have finished cleaning the unit, mix together some mild dish soap and water in the bucket. Use this solution to rinse off the AC unit, making sure to remove all of the soap residue. Reconnect the power and turn on the unit to make sure everything is working properly.
Step by Step Guide for Cleaning an Outdoor AC Unit
If your outdoor AC unit is looking a little worse for wear, it might be time to give it a good clean. Here is a step-by-step guide to cleaning your outdoor AC unit:
- Start by disconnecting the power to the unit. This is important for safety reasons, so that you don’t get electrocuted while cleaning.
- Next, use a garden hose to spray down the entire unit, getting rid of any dirt or debris that has built up on it.
- Once the unit is wet, take a brush and scrub away any remaining dirt. Pay special attention to the fins on the unit, as they can easily become clogged with debris.
- After scrubbing the unit down, use the hose to rinse it off completely.
- Reconnect the power and turn on the unit to make sure everything is working properly.
Tips and Tricks for Maintaining a Clean AC Unit
Your outdoor AC unit is constantly exposed to the elements, so it’s important to keep it clean in order to keep it functioning properly. Here are some tips and tricks for maintaining a clean AC unit:
- Keep the area around your AC unit free of debris. This includes leaves, branches, and other yard waste. These items can clog up your AC unit and prevent it from working properly.
- Clean the AC unit itself on a regular basis. You can use a garden hose with a spray nozzle attachment to remove any dirt or debris that has collected on the unit.
- Inspect the AC unit regularly for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If you see any damage, make sure to repair it right away to avoid further damage to the unit.
- Make sure the AC unit is properly maintained by a professional on an annual basis. This will ensure that the unit is functioning properly and will help extend its lifespan.
Benefits of Regularly Cleaning Your Outdoor AC Unit
If you want your outdoor AC unit to function properly and efficiently, it is important to keep it clean. A clean AC unit will not only last longer, but will also use less energy and save you money on your utility bills. Here are some of the benefits of regularly cleaning your outdoor AC unit:
Improved Air Quality
One of the benefits of regularly cleaning your outdoor AC unit is improved air quality. A dirty AC unit can circulate dust, pollen, and other pollutants into your home, which can trigger allergies or respiratory problems.
By keeping your AC unit clean, you can help improve the air quality in your home and create a healthier environment for your family.
Reduced Energy Costs
Reducing energy costs is another benefit of regularly cleaning your outdoor AC. A dirty or clogged AC unit has to work harder to cool your home, which uses more energy and drives up your utility bills.
By keeping your AC unit clean, you can help it run more efficiently and save money on your energy costs.
Extended Lifespan
A third benefit of regularly cleaning your outdoor AC unit is an extended lifespan. A dirty or poorly maintained AC unit is more likely to break down or need repairs over time, which can be costly.
By keeping your AC unit clean and well-maintained, you can help it last longer and avoid expensive repairs down the road
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your Outdoor AC Unit
If your outdoor AC unit is having trouble starting up, the first thing you should check is the power supply. Make sure that the unit is plugged in and that the outlet it’s plugged into is working. If the unit still won’t start, you may need to reset the circuit breaker or replace the fuse.
If your outdoor AC unit is running but not cooling effectively, there are a few possible issues.
First, check the air filter and clean or replace it if it’s dirty.
Next, check the evaporator coils and clean them if they’re dirty. Check the condenser coils and clean them if they’re dirty.
If your outdoor AC unit is leaking water, there are a few possible causes.
First, check to see if the drain pan is full. If so, empty it and make sure the drain line isn’t clogged.
Second, check to see if the evaporator coils are frozen. If so, turn off the unit and let thaw for about an hour before restarting. Check for leaks in the ductwork or around fittings and repair as necessary.
FAQs
Is it OK to spray water on your air conditioner while running?
The good news is that nothing negative will happen if you spray water on your air conditioner to clean it. Your air conditioner’s condenser will operate more effectively if you mist it with water. In reality, your condenser has to be spritzed frequently to continue working effectively.
Is it required to clean AC outdoor unit?
The coil is insulated by the soil, which lessens the coil’s capacity to absorb heat. Check and clean your evaporator coil as needed once a year to prevent this issue. If the surrounding area is dusty or there is vegetation, outdoor condenser coils can also get very dirty.
How often should you clean your outside AC unit?
For the majority of homeowners, twice a year is plenty, once in the spring before the summer season begins and you’ll be cooling your home, and once in the fall before the cold weather arrives and it’s time to turn on the heat.
Conclusion
Cleaning your outdoor AC unit is a necessary part of keeping your HVAC system running smoothly and efficiently. With the right tools and cleaning methods, you can keep your outdoor AC unit free from dirt and debris so that it runs more effectively.
We hope our ultimate guide to cleaning an outdoor AC unit has helped you gain some insight into how to properly care for yours. Now get out there and start cleaning!