How to Clean an Outside AC Unit

Your air conditioner is crucial for keeping your home cool and comfortable during the summer. While it’s easy to overlook your AC unit as long as it’s functioning, regular AC maintenance is vital for optimal performance and avoiding costly repairs.

Your AC system, which consists of both indoor and outdoor units, requires routine care. The outdoor unit, in particular, faces the brunt of exposure, collecting dirt, dust, and debris that can impair its efficiency.

In this article, we'll outline the basic steps for cleaning your outdoor AC unit to give you an idea of what's involved. However, for thorough cleaning and comprehensive maintenance, we strongly advise enlisting the services of a certified professional. Professional technicians have the expertise to identify and resolve issues that might not be immediately apparent, preventing minor problems from escalating into major ones.

Here’s what we’ll cover to help you get started:

• Turning off the power
• Removing debris
• Cleaning the fins
• Straightening the fins
• Cleaning around the unit
• Cleaning the evaporator coil and fan
• Reassembling and restarting the unit

Ready to ensure your unit is in top condition? Keep reading to understand the process, but remember, when it comes to deep cleaning and detailed maintenance, nothing beats the assurance and quality of professional service.

Keep your cooling system running smoothly with help from our dedicated experts.

If you're due for an AC repair, the seasoned pros at Advanced Air are always prepared to get the job done. Our honest and professional technicians have earned thousands of five-star reviews from homeowners. With fast, convenient scheduling and no-surprise pricing, we always have your comfort and convenience in mind.

Safety first! Before you even consider cleaning your air conditioner, always ensure the power is completely shut off. This is a crucial step to prevent any accidents such as electrocution. While this might seem simple, it underscores the risks involved in handling electrical appliances and why professional services are recommended.

Because your outdoor unit is located outside your home, it picks up all kinds of debris, from stray leaves to dirt. The first thing you should do is thoroughly inspect the unit for any debris. Next, carefully remove the debris from the air conditioner. Removing leaves, dirt, and other foreign objects might seem straightforward, but missing any can lead to inefficiencies or damage. This is a delicate task best handled by professionals who will ensure no debris is left behind to affect your system’s efficiency.

The fins on your AC unit are delicate and require careful handling to prevent any damage while ensuring they are thoroughly cleaned. Professionals use specialized tools like fin combs for precision cleaning and to avoid bending or damaging the fins, which can happen easily if not handled correctly.

After cleaning, the fins may need to be straightened—a task that requires gentle precision to avoid causing further damage. Professionals have the right tools and techniques to straighten fins effectively, ensuring optimal airflow and system performance.

Cleaning around the unit involves more than just wiping down surfaces; it includes checking for potential blockages and ensuring there's no buildup that could impair performance. This meticulous process is best performed by someone with an eye for detail, typically a trained technician.

The evaporator coil and fan are critical components and often require a thorough, careful cleaning to maintain their function and efficiency. Professionals use specialized cleaning solutions and tools to handle these parts properly, ensuring they're not damaged during the process.

Once everything is clean, reassembling and restarting the unit involves a clear understanding of the system to ensure all parts are correctly fitted and functioning. This step is crucial as improper reassembly can lead to malfunctions or inefficiencies.

If your cooling system isn't working as it should, don't hesitate to schedule an AC repair with Advanced Air. Thanks to our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can rely on us to get your systems back up and running within 24 hours.