No, we’re not talking about a bad beat by Lebron James and the Miami Heat. We’re talking about staying cool during the hot summer by a simple maintenance item that could save you hundreds of dollars and keep your air conditioner running smoothly.
Cleaning isn’t only a spring-time tradition for the junk you’ve stashed in the deepest darkest corners of the closet never to be seen again. It’s also an overlooked aspect of owning an air conditioner (and with global warming, who DOESN’T have one?). Don’t be fooled by thinking it’s something only a licensed contractor can do. A thorough cleaning can be done in just a few hours and doing it yourself will save you some hard earned cash.
Overview of a central Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system.
Give yourself 3 -4 hours from start to finish. For safety, be certain to turn off the power to the unit. If you are not able to find the shut off box (which is normally located near the outdoor unit) turn off the power at the circuit breaker in the main panel box.
Some minor disassembling is required because in order to reach the condenser fins, you’ll need to remove the outer case to the compressor. Once this has been removed, you can vacuum the fins. Use caution as the fins are delicate and can be easily bent. It is recommended that a soft-bristle brush attachment be used to prevent damage to the fins. Also clean around the unit by removing and dirt, leaves, grass, or low hanging branches that restrict airflow through the unit.
You can also remove the fan itself and spray a gentle stream of water through the fins to dislodge any stubborn debris.
Cleaning the indoor unit is equally important. Remember to replace the filter on a regular basis. Vacuum the dust out of the blower compartment and run bleach through the Condensate drain to clean out any algae or built up deposits in the drain line. You can also use a pipe cleaner to ensure the drain is clear of any clogs.
For more detailed instructions and step-by-step illustrations visit: Family HandyMan – DIY Projects
Always consult your Owner’s Manual for specific information about your HVAC system.
