How To Clean My Condenser

Air conditioner malfunctions can be a nightmare, especially during the summer months. One common cause of AC failures is dirty condensers. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that your outdoor AC condenser stays clean and free of dirt, dust, and debris.

Tools Required:

• Cordless drill
• Hose and spray nozzle
• Screwdriver with socket
• Soft-bristle brush

Turn Off Power

Before cleaning your condenser, make sure that the power is disconnected. You can either disconnect the plug connector in the power box or switch off the AC breaker switch in your main breaker panel.

Remove Screws from the Condenser Panels

Using a cordless drill or a screwdriver with a socket, remove the screws from the outside of the protective panels. Be sure to keep the screws in a safe place so that you don’t lose them.

Remove Panels

Remove the panels one at a time, starting from the back of the unit, taking care not to scratch the condenser fins.

As you remove the panels, keep them in order so that you can remember how to put them back.

Clean the Fins

Use a soft-bristle brush or a hose with a spray nozzle to clean the fins of any built-up dust and debris. When brushing, make sure to brush up and down rather than side to side. Spray the water from the top and not straight onto the fins.

Reattach the Panels

Using your screwdriver, reattach the panels in reverse order. Leave the screws loose until all panels are in place, and then tighten them.