In order to make sure your A/C unit is running in the summer months, it needs to be properly maintained and serviced. The servicing of your A/C on a regular basis should be conducted by a professional, so they can detect any repairs that can be made to avoid larger cost repairs in the future. However, individuals can clean the A/C once and awhile to keep it running efficiently between professional servicing. It is critical to follow these important instructions to make sure you are cleaning the unit safely.
Turn of the Power. This is the first and most important step to ensure you are safe during the process. There should be an exterior shut off by the outdoor unit, and you will also want to cut the power from the inside at the breaker box.
Next, remove the top grate from the condenser unit. Once it is removed, you can use your hands or a wet vac to remove the dirt, leaves, and debris. Protip: Check for snakes before putting your hands down there!
The next step will be to clean the fins. To do this, you will want to get the garden hose and use a strong stream to gently clean between the fins to remove the dust. Never use a pressure cleaner to accomplish this step as it will damage the unit.
Once the fins have been cleaned with water, you will want to start the task of straightening the fins. In order to do this, you can take a kitchen knife to gently straighten any fins that appear bent. Straightening the fins helps to improve airflow and improve the efficiency.
Finally, you will want to take a minute a clean and debris around the machine. You want to make it is clear of leaves and debris 2 feet in all directions.
If you need help, it's important to call an HVAC technician. Contact the expert team at All Heating and Cooling today.