How to Clean an Outdoor A/C Unit

An air conditioner unit is a saving grace for Texans who encounter intense heat. Summer is right around the corner, so it’s imperative that your A/C unit is ready. Performing a routine cleaning on your outdoor unit can not only help prolong its life, but will also ensure the machine is working efficiently, resulting in lower energy bills. In our most recent blog, our technicians explain how to clean an outdoor A/C unit.

Steps to Cleaning Your Air Conditioner

To help your air conditioning system get through the hot summer months, we recommend cleaning the outdoor condenser unit at the beginning of the season before you begin to use it regularly.

Luckily, cleaning your A/C unit is relatively simple. To effectively clean your air conditioning unit, follow the steps below.

How to Clean an Outdoor Air Conditioner

Shut Off Power

The first and most important step is to shut off the power switch located in a small box near the machine. This will ensure that you stay safe while cleaning your system. After the power has been completely turned off, you can begin to clean your outside unit.

Clear Debris

Because your A/C unit is located outdoors, it likely has plenty of debris in and around it. Begin to clear the outside unit of any leaves or branches that may have gotten stuck in the condenser fins (located on the exterior of the unit). Any dirt and debris, leaves, grass clippings and branches can create issues within your air conditioner, which can lead to repairs.

Vacuum and Wash the System

Once the debris has been cleared from the exterior of the system, brush it with a soft bristle brush. Be mindful not to bend or damage the metal fins. After this, unscrew and remove the top grille, and vacuum around the motor. Use a hose with a direct spray to wash down the interior walls, carefully avoiding the electrical components.

Wipe the System

Lastly, wipe down the fan blades with a damp cloth. This will ensure that any small pieces of debris remaining are eliminated and won’t cause any issues with your system.

Tools:

  • Soft Bristle Brush
  • Shopvac
  • Hose with Power Nozzle
  • Screwdriver
  • Cloth

Materials: To help your air conditioning system get through the hot summer months, we recommend cleaning the outdoor condenser unit at the beginning of the season before you begin to use it regularly. Luckily, cleaning your A/C unit is relatively simple. To effectively clean your air conditioning unit, follow the steps below.

Voila! Your A/C unit will be running as good as new! For more information about cleaning your outdoor A/C unit, click here. If you experience any issues when you clean your outdoor unit, the experts at Radiant Plumbing and Air are here to help. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us with any questions you might have.

Contact Radiant for Your Home’s HVAC Services

Radiant Plumbing and Air is Texas’s most trusted, full-service residential A/C, heating, and plumbing company. Our professionals are trained and experienced in all areas of HVAC and plumbing services, so we’ll be able to help with any home repair project that comes your way.

Our highly trained technicians are licensed to perform the necessary services to keep your home and those within it feeling comfortable all year round.

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