How to Clean an Air Conditioner

Did you know that cleaning your air conditioner in Tempe, AZ before you use it will make it work more efficiently and potentially save you money on future breakdowns? It’s true!

At Peterson Air Care, we’re always ready and happy to assist you in cleaning and maintaining your air conditioning unit. You may also be able to perform some of this maintenance yourself if you have the time and desire, though.

Keep reading to learn what you need to know to get started, or simply give our Tempe AC maintenance experts a call today!

7 Steps To Clean an Outdoor Air Conditioner

1. Remove the cover from the outside unit: Unscrew the cover and, if needed, seek assistance to lift or pry it off the coils. Keep the screws separate and organized as they may be of a proprietary size, making replacement difficult.
2. Ensure the air conditioner is turned off: Before touching the inside of the air conditioner, make sure it is switched off, and flip the breaker associated with it. This precautionary step helps prevent injuries or damage to the unit.
3. Wear gloves and remove debris: Put on gloves to protect your hands and remove any large debris or bits of debris from the unit. Clear away any visible obstructions that might hinder the cleaning process.
4. Vacuum the coils gently: Use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to gently suction off the coils. Take care not to bend any of the fins while cleaning. This step helps remove loose dirt and dust from the coils.
5. Apply an AC condenser cleaner: Use an appropriate AC condenser cleaner to clean the unit. Follow the instructions on the cleaner’s bottle and allow it to sit for the recommended period, usually around 10-15 minutes. This cleaner helps dissolve stubborn dirt and grime from the coils.
6. Rinse the unit with a hose: After the cleaner has had time to work, use a hose to rinse away the cleaner and the dirt it has loosened. Set the hose to a mild setting to avoid bending the fins while rinsing.
7. Reassemble the air conditioner: Once the cleaning process is complete, put the cover back on the air conditioner. Make sure it is securely fastened to protect the unit from external elements.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean your air conditioner and maintain its performance and longevity.

How to Clean an Air Conditioner Filter

Most air conditioners don’t have reusable filters. Instead, change your filter every 1-3 months, especially if you use your air conditioner frequently, if you have pets, or if your house is especially dusty. Make sure you get a filter that is the same size and shape as the old one (you can even bring it with you when you go shopping). To correctly replace your air conditioner filter, follow the instructions on the package or on the unit itself.

Get Help from the Tempe AC Maintenance Experts

If you’re still unsure about how to clean your AC in Tempe, AZ, or don’t want to handle it on your own, let our experts assist you. Call Peterson Air Care today and we’ll send someone out to conduct your AC maintenance as soon as possible!