How to Properly Clean Your Air Conditioner’s Outside Unit Yourself

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Most homeowners this summer have been using their air conditioning units fairly often with the record setting temperatures and extreme bouts of dryness we have been experiencing. And in doing so, they are naturally concerned about making sure their cooling systems continue to work as efficiently as possible. One of the ways to ensure a smooth running heating and cooling system is to keep it clean.

Debris, Dust and Grime Clogs Up An AC Unit

Though the build-up can accumulate over time, cleaning your unit literally only takes minutes. Over time, the grill in a typical outside AC system collects dried leaves, dirt, dust, grime, cotton and flying weeds plus cobwebs and other natural debris. Too much debris can clog your system and ultimately impact your air conditioner’s working efficiency.

Usually There is No Need for Service Calls

Contrary to what come companies may advertise, the truth is that most air conditioning systems do not require any services for at least three to four years from when they were first installed (new). There may be an occasional need but for the most part the only thing needed is a quick cleaning. While a service company may charge anywhere from $90 on up to do the same thing, you can easily take care of this small task yourself.

Cleaning the Coils of An Outside AC Unit is Simple

All you need is a regular garden hose. A sprayer attachment works well too but is not necessary. The most important thing to remember when cleaning your unit is to be gentle. The internal and outside components can easily be damaged if cleaned using a power washer of any sort. That’s why we recommend using a simple garden hose with or without a standard sprayer.

Step 1: Turn up the temperature on your thermostat so that while you are cleaning the unit does not kick on.

Step 2: Turn the water on and holding the garden hose about six inches away from the grill, start at the top of your AC unit.

Step 3: In a sweeping motion going across and then moving downward, row-by-row, systematically clean off each section of your unit, breaking up any dust, dirt, grime or other debris.

Step 4: Reset your thermostat to your desired temperature.
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That’s it! In just a few minutes, you have cleaned your air conditioner unit, unclogging the areas where air flows and made your unit operate much more efficiently!