Regular AC maintenance keeps your air conditioning system running efficiently. It includes cleaning the outdoor AC unit containing the condenser and compressor. The outdoor AC unit can accumulate dust, dirt, foliage, and other debris which can affect its effectiveness in cooling your home. The good news is that you can handle a lot of simple outdoor AC unit maintenance on your own.
In this post, we offer tips on cleaning and maintaining your outdoor AC unit with some simple tasks you can do yourself. You should also call Galmiche & Sons to perform professional servicing on your AC system at least once per year. To learn more about our AC services or schedule your HVAC maintenance appointment, call us at 314-993-1110 or fill our contact form.
The Importance of Cleaning Your Outdoor AC Unit
Cleaning your outdoor AC unit helps ensure the following:
- Efficiency: A clogged and dirty outdoor AC unit has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature in your home. The AC system consumes more energy, which leads to high electricity bills.
- Indoor Air Quality: Outdoor AC unit maintenance contributes to better indoor air quality, which is especially important if you or family members have respiratory issues or allergies. A dirty outdoor AC unit can circulate dust and allergens throughout your home, affecting the air you breathe, and triggering allergies and asthma.
- Prolonged Lifespan: An AC is a significant investment and every homeowner aims to get the most out of it. A buildup of dust in your outdoor AC prevents heat from being released to the outside air and at some point, will cause the system to shut down. A serious issue can require AC repair or a much costlier AC replacement.
What is the Ideal Frequency of Outdoor AC Unit Maintenance
A deep clean of your AC unit is recommended once a year, ideally during spring and before the hot and muggy St. Louis summer arrives to prevent common AC problems and breakdowns. Regular maintenance, such as periodically replacing/cleaning the dirty AC filters of your indoor unit and removing debris near the outdoor unit will help keep your AC system running in good shape.
The required frequency for air conditioner servicing will typically vary depending upon how much you use your air conditioner. Our heating and air conditioning experts can evaluate your needs and provide you with an air conditioner servicing plan customized to your needs.
Outdoor AC Unit Maintenance Tips
Cleaning your outdoor AC unit involves the following steps:
- Ensuring Safety: Before you begin cleaning your AC, turn off the power to the AC unit to avoid any electrical hazards during cleaning. Wear gloves and a dust mask to shield your face and hands from debris and any irritants that you may encounter. If you notice leaks or damage in the outdoor unit, call our HVAC technician for a quick inspection and solution.
- Use the Right Cleaning Supplies: An outdoor AC unit maintenance kit consists of the following cleaning tools:
- Garden hose
- Soft-bristled brush
- Coil cleaner
- Fin comb
- Mild detergent solution
- Prepare the Area for Cleaning: Clear away any debris such as leaves, twigs, or other objects that have accumulated around or on the unit. This debris and dirt can block the airflow, making your system work harder. Also trim back any plants or shrubs near the unit to prevent future debris build-up.
- Clean the Condenser Fins: Use the soft-bristled brush/ or fin comb to clean the condenser fins. Clean gently in the direction of the fins to avoid bending or damaging them. If the fins are bent or damaged, call us to have them straightened using professional tools.
- Clean the Condenser Coils: Apply a mild detergent or coil cleaner to the coils using the brush. Rinse this away with a gentle spray from your garden hose.
- Clean the Motor and Fan Blades: In the last leg of DIY outdoor AC unit maintenance, start by removing debris from the fan cage. Then, use a soft-bristled brush to gently wipe down the blades and motor.
- Finishing Up: Once the above DIY AC maintenance tasks are completed, reassemble your outdoor AC unit and turn the power back on. Test your AC system to ensure it is working properly and cooling your home adequately.
Schedule Outdoor AC Unit Maintenance from the Experts
As a leading HVAC service provider serving the St. Louis area since 1950, Galmiche & Sons provides air-conditioner servicing aimed at ensuring energy efficient cooling and optimal performance. We can keep your system running smoothly and help you understand any DIY tasks you can complete. To schedule your service or learn more, call our heating and air conditioning experts at 314-993-1110 or contact us online today.
