Summer is right around the corner, which means it’s time to break out your trusty air conditioner and bask in that sweet, cool relief. But before you start cranking up the AC this season, have you considered giving it a deep cleaning? An AC deep cleaning might seem like an unnecessary chore but trust us – your unit will thank you for it in the long run. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about AC deep cleaning and why it’s important for both your wallet and your health. So, sit back, grab a cold drink, and let’s get started!
What is AC Deep Cleaning?
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t give your air conditioner much thought – that is, until it stops working. But just like any other appliance in your home, your AC unit needs regular maintenance to stay in top shape. One of the most important – and often overlooked – aspects of AC maintenance is deep cleaning.
So, what exactly is AC deep cleaning? Simply put, it’s a thorough cleaning of all the components of your AC unit, both inside and out. This includes everything from the coils and fins to the filters and blower. Deep cleaning your AC unit on a regular basis (we recommend it at least once a year) will help it run more efficiently and prolong its lifespan.
Benefits of an AC Deep Cleaning
An AC deep cleaning entails a thorough cleaning of your air conditioner, both inside and out. This type of cleaning is important because it removes all the dirt, dust, and other debris that can accumulate over time and cause your system to work less efficiently. A deep clean also helps to prevent future problems by keeping your AC in good working condition.
Some of the benefits of an AC deep clean include:
Improved Air Quality
When your air conditioner is clean, it will circulate cleaner, healthier air throughout your home. This is especially beneficial for people with allergies or respiratory conditions.
Increased Efficiency
A clean air conditioner will work more efficiently than one that is dirty. This means that you’ll save money on your energy bills and your AC will have a longer lifespan.
Reduced Repair Costs
By keeping your AC well-maintained, you can avoid costly repairs down the road. A deep clean can help identify any potential issues, so they can be fixed before they become major problems.
Improved Comfort Levels
When your AC is operating at its best, it will be able to better regulate the temperature of your home. This means that you and your family can enjoy comfortable temperatures year-round.
AC deep cleaning is an important part of keeping your air conditioner performing at its best. It’s a task that should be done on a regular basis to maximize the benefits.
Step-by-Step Guide to AC Deep Cleaning
If your air conditioner has been operating for some time without a deep clean, then it’s time to give it one. This type of cleaning is important because it removes all the dirt, dust, and grime that have accumulated over time. Not only will this improve the efficiency of your AC unit, but it will also extend its lifespan. Here’s a step-by-step guide to AC deep cleaning:
Start by turning off the power to your AC unit. Next, remove the front panel or grill, so you can access the fan blades. Use a brush or cloth to wipe down the blades, being careful not to damage them. Once the blades are clean, vacuum any dust from around the unit.
Now it’s time to move on to the coils. These are usually located behind the front panel or grill. First, use a soft brush to remove any large debris from the coils. Then, using a coil cleaner and a garden hose, spray the coils and scrub them clean with a brush. Rinse thoroughly with water and allow the coils to dry completely before moving on.
The last step is optional, but we recommend cleaning the air ducts if they are accessible. This will remove any dirt or dust that has built up inside them over time. Simply vacuum out each duct with a powerful vacuum cleaner, and you’re done!
Step 1: Preparation for Cleaning
An AC deep cleaning is a thorough cleaning of your air conditioner, and it is important to do this at least once a year to keep your AC unit running smoothly. Here are the steps you need to take to prepare your AC unit for a deep clean:
- First, you will need to turn off your AC unit and disconnect it from the power source. Then, remove any filters or covers that are on the unit.
- Next, using a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner, lightly vacuum the coils and fins on your AC unit. Be careful not to bend or damage the coils and fins.
- After that, using a coil cleaning solution, such as vinegar or bleach diluted with water, clean the coils and fins on your AC unit. Allow the solution to soak for about 15 minutes before rinsing it off with water.
- Dry off the coils and fins with a clean towel or cloth before reconnecting your AC unit to the power source and turning it back on.
Step 2: Disassembly and Access Points Inspection
After unplugging your AC unit, open the access panels to look inside. Inspect the coils and make sure there is no dust or debris build-up. The air handler is another important component to inspect. Make sure that there is no mold or mildew growing inside and that the drain pan is free of any dirt or debris.
Step 3: Cleaning and Sanitize all Coils, Fans, and Components
The third step in AC deep cleaning is to clean and sanitize all coils, fans, and components. This is done to prevent the build-up of dirt, dust, and other allergens that can cause problems for people with allergies or respiratory conditions.
Coil cleaning involves using a coil cleaner to remove dirt, dust, and debris from the coils. The coils should be cleaned monthly to ensure they are free of allergens and other potential irritants.
Fan cleaning involves using a brush or vacuum attachment to remove dirt, dust, and debris from the blades of the fan. The fan should be cleaned monthly to ensure it is free of allergens and other potential irritants.
Components such as air filters and exhaust fans should be cleaned monthly as well. This will help to prolong the life of the AC unit and keep it running efficiently.
Step 4: Reassembling your Air Conditioner
As you might expect, the final step in an AC deep cleaning is to reassemble your air conditioner. This process is relatively straightforward, but there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.
First, be sure to consult your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s instructions when reassembling your AC. This will ensure that you’re putting everything back in the right place and that you don’t accidentally damage any of the components.
Next, take your time when reassembling your AC. There’s no need to rush through this process, as rushing could lead to mistakes being made.
Once everything is back in place, give your AC a test run to make sure that it’s working properly. If everything seems to be working fine, then you’re all done!
Step 5: Give Inside Cleaning
After you’ve washed the exterior of your unit, you’ll need to give the inside a good cleaning. First, remove any leaves or debris from the fan blades and coils. Next, use a stiff brush to remove any dirt and grime build-up on the fins. Once the fins are clean, use a vacuum attachment to remove any dust and dirt from the interior surfaces. Clean the drainage pan and evaporator coil with a solution of vinegar and water.
How Often Should You Do an AC Deep Clean?
While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, we typically recommend having your AC deep cleaned every 1–2 years. This helps to ensure that your unit is running efficiently and effectively and prevents any build-up of dirt and grime that could lead to issues down the line.
If you have a particularly dirty or dusty home, you may need to clean your AC unit more frequently. Likewise, if you have pets or allergies, it’s important to keep your AC unit as clean as possible to minimize any potential irritation.
Conclusion
Deep cleaning your AC unit is a great way to ensure that you are getting the most out of it. This article has taken you through all the steps involved in an AC deep clean, from gathering supplies and preparing for the cleaning process to going through each step of the detailed cleaning procedure. Now that you know what goes into a deep cleaning job, make sure to keep up with regular maintenance so your AC unit stays healthy and efficient all year long!
