According to a survey conducted by the United States Energy Information Administration, nearly 90% of American households used air conditioning in 2020. In India, only about 13% of households have air conditioning, but that figure is expected to rise to 69% by 2040. Many offices have air conditioning installed in them. The efficiency and longevity of all air conditioners, including yours, are significantly affected by how regularly you maintain and clean your outside unit. Poor maintenance and cleanliness can have a negative impact not only on your home but also on the environment.
See also: AC Cleaning: How to clean your AC at home?
Importance of regular maintenance for air conditioner
Lower electricity bills
Dust and debris accumulate over time, impeding airflow and forcing the air conditioner to work harder to cool your home. This causes increased use of energy and higher bills for electricity. Regular cleaning and maintenance keep your air conditioner running efficiently, which saves you money.Â
Improved Comfort and Air Quality
Dirty filters trap pollen, dust, and allergens, recirculating them throughout your home. Regular cleaning or replacement results in cleaner air, which is especially helpful for those with allergies or trouble breathing.
Early detection of problems
Technicians can identify minor issues during maintenance before they become major breakdowns. This saves you the inconvenience and cost of emergency repairs and replacements.
Energy savings
Proper care and maintenance extend the life of your air conditioner, allowing you to take pleasure in its cooling benefits for a longer period.
Maintain optimum temperature
A well-maintained air conditioner cools your home more efficiently and regularly, preventing varying temperatures and hot areas. Regular upkeep ensures a pleasant and refreshing atmosphere.
How to clean an air conditioner outside the unit?
Before you start
Disconnect the unit’s plug or turn off the power at the breaker box. Wait for the fan to stop before approaching fully. This is critical to avoiding any electrical hazards. Work in an area with adequate ventilation.
Gather supplies
You’ll need a garden hose, a screwdriver, a hose with a nozzle, mild detergent or specialized coil cleaner, a soft brush (like a paintbrush), a vacuum with a hose attachment (optional), a coil cleaner (optional), safety glasses, and gloves.Â
Accessing the interior
Refer to your air conditioner’s manual for particular guidance on removing the top panel. Most units have locks or screws, but others may require sliding the panel forward or backwards. To reveal the interior of the unit, carefully remove the panel.
Clean debris
Remove any plants, debris, or things that might be blocking your access to the unit. Ensure that you have enough space to move around at ease. Remove any leaves, twigs, dust animals, or other large objects inside the unit with your hands or a vacuum. Pay special attention to the fan knife and the area surrounding the coils. These delicate aluminium fins are essential for heat transfer. Use a soft brush to gently remove any dirt, dust, or buildup from the fins. When brushing, take extreme care not to bend or damage them. Take care not to damage the fins during this procedure.
Coil cleaning
If your coils are severely clogged with grime, consider using a commercial coil cleaner. Follow the product’s instructions for application time and dilution. Spray the cleaner on the coils and allow it to sit for the recommended time. Wear gloves and eye protection during this step. Combine a mild detergent with water. Spray the solution on the coils and fins. Let the solution sit for a few minutes. Use a hose to thoroughly rinse the unit, removing any remaining detergent.
Inspecting and reassembling
Look for any signs of damage or wear on the unit. Reassemble the unit carefully, ensuring that all components are in place. Ensure adequate drainage and functionality. Wait until the unit has completely dried before turning it back on. Keep an eye out for any strange sounds or issues with the system.Â
Safety precautions
Turn off the power supply
Disconnect the plug or turn off the unit’s power supply at the breaker box. Always wait until the fan stops entirely before getting close to the appliance. There is no longer any chance of an electrical shock.
Stay grounded
To avoid being shocked if you unintentionally come into contact with any live wires, wear shoes with rubber soles. When working near the air conditioner, make sure you have firm and stable footing. Steer clear of slick surfaces to avoid falling.
Use of ladder
If your device is positioned high, get to it with a strong, stable ladder. Ensure that someone holds the ladder for you at all times, or fastens it with the proper braces.
Eye protection
To protect your eyes from any dust or cleaning solution that may splash during the procedure, put on safety glasses.
Seek help
Never hesitate to seek assistance from a qualified technician if you come across any electrical components, damaged parts, or circumstances that seem out of your comfort zone.
Avoid using water
Steer clear of directly sprinkling water on electrical parts such as the control box or motor. Pay attention to the outside surfaces, fan blades, and fins.
Regular maintenance tips
- To increase efficiency and stop conditioned air from escaping, seal any air leaks around windows and doors.
- Keep an eye out for any indications of wear and tear, like leaks, odd noises, or diminished cooling power. Should any problems arise, get in touch with a qualified technician.
- Lubricate the fan motor bearing on the outdoor unit per the manufacturer’s instructions. This helps to reduce friction and noise.
- Set professional cleaning of the condenser cooling system every 1-2 years, especially if you live in a high-pollution area.
- To keep the growth of mould and mildew at a distance, pour a cup of bleach down the drain regularly.
FAQs
Yes, you may disinfect the inside of your air conditioning unit yourself. However, it is important to take safety precautions and follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging the unit or creating potential hazards.
Use a fin comb to gently straighten bent fins, keeping them intact for optimal airflow.
Signs include unusual sounds, decreased cooling efficiency, and visible damage. If you notice any of these problems, you should contact a professional HVAC technician.
While mild homemade solutions may suffice for certain tasks, using manufacturer-recommended commercial products ensures safe and effective cleaning.
The best time to start cleaning is early in the morning before the sun rises too high. The unit will have had time to cool down overnight, reducing the risk of burns from hot metal components. If mornings are not for you, late afternoon or early evening, after the sun has set behind buildings or trees, can be a good alternative.
You should not use a pressure washer to clean the outside unit of your air conditioner. Although it may appear to be a quick and easy way to remove dirt and grime, it can damage your unit's delicate components.
Using a leaf blower to remove debris from your air conditioner's outside unit may seem like a convenient option, but it's not recommended for several reasons. Can I clean the inside of my AC unit myself?
How do I straighten bent fins on the outside unit?
What signs indicate that my outside unit needs professional attention?
Can I use homemade cleaning solutions, or should I stick with commercial products?
Is there a specific time of day that's best for cleaning the outside unit?
Can I use a pressure washer to clean the outside unit?
Can I use a leaf blower to remove debris from the outside unit?
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