AC Condenser Maintenance

While we are enjoying the mild Spring weather, it’s a good time to do some basic maintenance on your air conditioner unit. Checking coolant (refrigerant levels), can only be done by a professional. However, cleaning your AC condenser is an important step to maintaining an AC’s efficiency. For exterior units- Shut off the electrical power to the air conditioner (flip breaker, or pull out the disconnect). Check that there is no rust in your electrical panel (would indicate water intrusion and should be inspected by an electrician). AC units need unobstructed air flow. So remove any debris from around the AC condenser unit. Using a garden hose, spray water over the condenser unit and coils. In a pump-sprayer, follow manufacturer instructions in mixing a coil cleaner (like Nu-Brite, CalClean) with water; and spray the condenser and coils. Then rinse off with water. This process will clean a significant amount of dirt from your AC condenser, making it more efficient. Additionally, if your AC coil fins are damaged, you can straighten them with a fin tool. Straighten fins greatly improves air flow. Once completed don’t forget to restore power to your AC. Lastly check your filter inside your home (usually situated in the return air vent), replace if dirty.