How to clean an AC unit for summer?
Summer’s here, and your AC needs to be ready to roll. The last thing any of us wants is to sweat it out during a heatwave because the unit decided to take a nap. At One Hour Heating and Air, we believe keeping your home cool shouldn’t be a guessing game. So, let’s talk shop, How do we clean an AC unit to get it summer-ready?
Spoiler alert it’s not rocket science, but it does take some elbow grease, know-how, and the right timing. Let’s walk through the steps we follow at home and in the field.
Our Process for Cleaning an AC Unit
This is how we break it down before summer starts:
1. Turn Off the Power
Safety comes first, always. We switch the unit off at the thermostat and pull the disconnect or shut off the breaker outside.
2. Clear Debris Around the Unit
Leaves, branches, dirt, grass clippings — they all love to crowd around the condenser. We grab gloves and clear a good 2-foot radius around the unit so it can breathe.
3. Remove the Top and Vacuum the Interior
We unscrew the fan grill or top cover and gently lift it off. Then we vacuum out any crud inside — dead leaves, insects, you name it.
4. Clean the Fins
We use a soft-bristle brush to clean the fins. Always go vertical, never side-to-side — those fins bend easier than you’d think. A hose with light pressure helps rinse them down too.
5. Straighten Bent Fins
If we notice the fins are smashed or crooked, we use a fin comb to gently coax them back into shape. Better airflow means better cooling.
6. Wash or Replace the Filter
Inside the house, we pull the filter and either rinse or replace it. This is one of the biggest airflow killers when it’s clogged.
7. Flush the Drain Line
A clogged drain line can lead to leaks. We suck it out with a wet/dry vac or flush it with vinegar to break up the gunk.
8. Reassemble and Power Up
Once it’s all cleaned up and dry, we put the top back on, restore the power, and fire it up. Then we check if it’s cooling efficiently.
When to Call in the Pros
Sometimes, DIY isn’t enough. Here’s when we recommend calling our team at One Hour Heating and Air:
- Weak Airflow: If your vents feel like they’re blowing with all the strength of a toddler with a straw, it could be a blower motor or duct issue.
- Warm Air: If it’s blowing but not cold, there might be a refrigerant problem — that’s our job.
- Loud or Odd Noises: Buzzing, banging, or squealing noises mean something’s off. That’s not something you want to guess at.
- Ice on the Coils: Yes, ice in summer. It usually signals low refrigerant or airflow issues. Call us — don’t chip at it.
- High Energy Bills: If your bill skyrockets, your system might be working twice as hard. We’ll test it and find the energy drain.
- Unit Doesn’t Turn On: Checked the thermostat and breakers, and still nothing? That’s our cue.
- You’d Rather Not Risk It: Look, we get it. Not everyone wants to open up their AC unit and poke around. That’s why our Dependaworthy repair trucks are ready to roll.
FAQs
Q: How often should I clean my AC unit?
We recommend giving it a good clean at least once a year, right before summer hits.
Q: Can I use a pressure washer on the condenser?
Nope. Too much pressure can flatten the fins. Stick with a garden hose.
Q: How long does a professional cleaning take?
Typically an hour or two. We go over every component and make sure nothing’s hiding under the hood.
Q: What’s included in a professional AC tune-up?
We inspect electrical components, clean coils, check refrigerant levels, calibrate the thermostat, and flush the drain line. It’s more than a quick rinse.
Q: What happens if I skip cleaning my AC unit?
You’ll lose efficiency, pay more in electricity, and risk major breakdowns. Think of it like not changing the oil in your car — eventually, something’s going to give.
Final Word from the Crew
We clean our own units the same way we clean yours. No shortcuts. And if something’s wrong, we’ll fix it right — or you don’t pay. That’s how we do things. Call it dependable, call it trustworthy — or call it what we call it: DEPENDAWORTHY!
Whether you’re rolling up your sleeves or picking up the phone, we’re here to keep your summer cool and your AC unit humming.
Need help today? We’re ready when you are.
