Regular maintenance on your air conditioning unit will prolong its life while making sure it’s working effectively and efficiently. Making sure your air conditioner is kept clean will ensure your home is comfortable while saving you money. A clean air conditioner will also improve the air quality in your home. Follow a few simple tips to make sure your air conditioner is ready to keep you cool in the hot summer months!
Cleaning the Filter
Air conditioner filters need to be changed or cleaned regularly to reduce allergens and allow good airflow. Your air conditioner won’t work as effectively with a dirty filter, costing you extra money on your bill every month. A dirty filter can also collect dust, debris, mildew, and even bacteria, compromising the overall air quality of your home. At the beginning of summer, or before you start using your air conditioner for the season, replace your filter. Every month, you should check the condition of your filter. Some filters can be cleaned. If your air conditioner filter is showing signs of dust or debris, you can use your vacuum hose attachment to remove any built-up dirt. For a deeper clean, you can soak your filter in a mixture of one part water and one part vinegar. Allow the filter to soak for about an hour and make sure it’s fully dry before replacing it. Make sure you know what type of filter your air conditioner uses, as many disposable filters will need to be replaced rather than cleaned. If your filter is showing signs of wear and tear, it will need to be replaced.
Cleaning the Fins and Coils
You should do a deep clean of your air conditioner once a year. Make sure the breaker is turned off before removing the top of your condenser unit. Clean out any debris at the bottom, such as leaves, dirt, etc. with your hands or with a vacuum. You can clean the coils on your condenser with an AC coil cleaner you can buy at a hardware store. Spray the fins on the inside and allow the spray to sit and foam for ten minutes. Using a garden hose, rinse the cleaner by pushing it from the inside to the outside of your unit. Don’t use high pressure on your hose or a pressure washer as this can damage the fins on your air conditioner. Rinse the outside of your unit and reassemble the top. Don’t forget to turn the power back on when you’re finished!
It’s important to remember that the cleaning process for different air conditioners will vary by manufacturer so make sure you check your owner’s manual for cleaning instructions on your specific unit. Not following your manual’s instructions may cause damage to the unit and will end up being a bigger expense in the long run. Many homeowners can do a lot of the cleaning and maintenance of their air conditioner units themselves. However, if you’re dealing with a particularly grimy AC unit or are unsure or uncomfortable doing the job yourself, don’t hesitate to enlist the help of a professional. A yearly cleaning and maintenance of your air conditioner will ensure you a cool and affordable summer!
