Many homeowners wait for the spring season to open their doors and windows and avoid using their HVAC systems. However, the arrival of spring is no excuse to ignore your HVAC system entirely. In fact, it’s a moment when you should pay close attention so that it’s ready to go when you need it the most. If you maintain your HVAC system, you will save money on your monthly expenses and lengthen the life of the system. In addition, your house will be pleasant all year.
How to Clean Your Air Conditioner
Begin by removing any dust, leaves, dirt, or other materials that may have gathered throughout the winter months. Also, be sure that the foliage you planted to hide the unit has not grown too near to it. Maintain a distance of at least two feet.
You could also check that your dryer vent isn’t directed toward your AC unit and spewing lint into the system.
The key goal is to ensure that nothing obstructs the passage of outside air into your system. Then, proceed with the cleaning of both the outside and internal components.
1. Turn Your Thermostat On and Off
It’s generally a good idea to start with a system check, turning the unit off and on at your thermostat to ensure everything is working correctly. If not, you should consider hiring an HVAC professional.
Before proceeding, ensure that you power down the system by turning the condenser switch to the “off” position and turning off the breaker at your circuit breaker box. You don’t want the system to start-up while you’re attempting to keep it running.
2. Clean the evaporator coil and drain
You want to use a soft brush to remove dust and debris gently. Then follow up with a vacuum cleaner to get out any remaining dust.
Next, you’ll want to remove the leaf guard and furnace panel on the outside. You’ll probably want to wear heavy canvas gloves to protect your hands from any sharp edges.
Use a garden hose to spray down the coil and drain pan. If you see a buildup of dirt, algae, or black slime on the coil, you’ll probably want to remove it with a coil cleaner. If the drain pan is filthy and full of black slime, you’ll want to clean it.
3. Change the filter
Before each heating season, change the filter – once a year for air conditioning and twice a year for a comprehensive heating and cooling system. Check that the new filter has the same air-flow rating as the old one.
4. Wash the condenser fins
Use a garden hose to spray down the condenser fins on the outside and wash them clean. If you have any algae or black slime buildup on the fins, you may want to use a spray degreaser first to remove it before you wash the fins.
5. Clean the fan
You may want to use mild soap and water for the fan and motor to clean it. If you’re using a commercial cleaner, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Clean the compressor
You may want to remove the compressor, prop it up, and clean the coils with an air compressor. If you can’t remove the compressor, you may clean the coils from the bottom. If not, you’ll have to use a spray cleaner on the coils. Take extra care if you use an aerosol cleaner since you don’t want to blow any toxic fumes inside your home.
Conclusion
For some homeowners, heating and cooling systems are a convenient luxury. However, for others, they’re a necessity. If you’re struggling with high energy bills, you may want to consider making some upgrades to your heating and cooling systems. The investment will be worth it in the long run.
For the best HVAC service in Pelham, AL, AutumnAir is your best bet. We conduct high-quality HVAC installations and repairs while also offering other electrical services for residential and commercial addresses. Contact us today for more information.