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No doubt that you want your air conditioner to live longer. But how to do it? The answer is simpler than it seems. Our experts at Fuse Service know how to clean your air conditioner and are ready to share their knowledge with you. We’ll tell you how to do air conditioning cleaning yourself and when you should call in the pros.
Why Cleaning Your AC Unit Matters
Cleaning air conditioner is not just a hygienic measure; it’s a money-saving one. So, here are just some of the problems that spoil the life of your split system:
- Dirty AC coils? Clogged AC filter? It affects the cooling efficiency.
- Mold and dust in the system being blown into the room can become a reason for your allergy. Just read about the health effects of AC.
- A dirty AC unit inside the house can overheat and break down.
“Regular cleaning of filters and heat exchangers is the foundation of any central air conditioner’s longevity,”—says Alex, a certified tech with Fuse Service, CA.
What You’ll Need to Clean Your AC
Follow this small tools checklist before you begin:
- Screwdriver
- Soft brush
- Vacuum cleaner with narrow nozzle
- Сoils cleaning spray
- Warm water and soap
- Gloves
- AC drain line cleaner
Sure you have everything on the list? Then move on!
How to Clean AC Unit Inside House
Now let’s learn how to clean AC unit inside together.
Clean or Replace the AC Filter
The easiest and most important step is cleaning or replacing the filter.
- Find the filter: it may be built into a wall mounted or split system.
- Rinse the filter with warm water.
- If the filter is disposable, replace it.
But if your unit is old enough, find out how long do AC units last. Maybe it’s high time to call Fuse Service and install a new one? Think about it: it’s a cool chance to save a ton of money with a rebate program.
Clean the AC Coils Inside the House
Bad news: dirty coils don’t match with efficient cooling.
- Open the front panel
- Remove any dirt from the evaporator coils.
- Use a special cleaner or soap solution.
How to Clean the Outdoor AC Unit
Done, you’re great! However, the outdoor AC unit requires just as much attention as the indoor unit.
Clean the Outside Housing
Follow these instructions to clean AC unit outside:
- Remember to turn off the power first.
- Remove all extra details: leaves, dust, and dirt.
- Wipe the housing with a sponge or cloth.
Clean the AC Condenser and Fins
This step also has its nuances.
- Clean the fins with a very light tissue.
- Rinse the condenser from the outside (a garden hose with low pressure is the best option for this step).
But be careful because it’s too easy to bend the thin cooling fins (we shouldn’t do that!).
How to Clean the Drain Line
Never skip this step. Why? Because clogs in the AC drain line can cause leaks and other unpleasant surprises.
- Locate the drain outlet by the indoor unit.
- Use a vacuum cleaner.
How Often Should You Clean Your Air Conditioner?
It all depends on where you live, how often you use the wall unit…. and tons of other factors. But on average, we recommend frequent air conditioner cleaning (1-2 times a year):
- Spring (before active use).
- Fall (after the season is over).
Any central air unit requires more frequent maintenance, especially in dusty areas like San Jose. If you’re wondering how to extend the life of your unit, don’t wait a sec. Read more about air conditioner maintenance and call Fuse Service to book an expert’s visit today.
Also check out San Jose ductless AC—a great solution for zone cooling without complicated ductwork.
When to Call a Professional for AC Cleaning
Have you managed to clean your AC? Great job! But if you’ve noticed reduced cooling power or a bad odor, it’s time to call a pro.
Complex cleaning of ducts, vents, and hard-to-reach parts requires skills. Give Fuse Service a call; our experts know how to clean air conditioner to make it look like a brand-new one!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I plan AC cleaning?
AC cleaning is key. Twice a year will be excellent (choose spring and fall).
What is the first step to cleaning an air conditioner at home?
Start with the filters and find out how to clean AC coils: these are the most polluted parts.
How do I clean the AC coils?
First, turn off the power. Then open the panel and wipe them. Use a special solution!
What tool should I use to clean the condenser?
The garden hose is a perfect fit, but don’t use high pressure.
How can I clean a wall air conditioner without removing it?
You should definitely know how to clean AC filter. Remove the front panel, rinse the filter, and carefully clean the coils and housing.
How should I clean the drain line?
You can clear a clog by yourself. Just use a vacuum cleaner or a special solution.
Is professional AC cleaning better than DIY?
Yes, especially for heavy clogs. Professionals will perform a full diagnosis at home and remove hidden contaminants.
