It’s frustrating when your air conditioner breaks down, especially when you need costly repairs due to damage caused by preventable problems. As a homeowner, there are some measures you can take to ensure your air conditioner continues to run smoothly. Read on to learn what a condenser unit is, why it’s important to keep it free of debris, and how to clean a condenser unit yourself for AC repair prevention.
Signs Your Condenser Unit Needs Cleaning (Dirty Condenser Coil Symptoms)
Here are the most common signs that your condenser unit needs cleaning.
AC’s not cooling the house the way it used to
One of the most obvious dirty condenser coil symptoms is an air conditioner blowing warm air. The debris inside the unit insulates the system and prevents it from releasing the heat it’s trying to extract from your home.
High energy bills
If your unit’s energy efficiency drops dramatically, it’s likely because dirty coils are making it work harder than usual.
Ice on the coils
With reduced airflow due to debris, ice can form on the coils, causing a musty odor and making the air conditioner consume more energy to work properly. If not addressed, this can lead to coil damage or even a full system failure.
Leaking from the drip pan
The drain line and drip pan catch any condensation that builds up inside the air conditioner and drains it outside. If your air conditioner is dirty, water and debris can build up and cause leaks.
The Impact of a Dirty Condenser Unit on Your AC
A dirty condenser unit is more than an inconvenience. If not taken care of, it causes serious damage to your air conditioner and even leads to a complete system failure. If your AC efficiency decreases dramatically, it’ll have to work harder to cool your house, increasing wear and tear and reducing its lifespan.
The Benefits of Cleaning Your Condenser Unit
The benefits of cleaning your AC’s condenser unit are:
- A longer AC unit lifespan
- Improved energy efficiency
- Financial savings on energy bills
If you need condenser unit cleaning and aren’t confident enough to DIY, contact QRC. We offer full-service air conditioning repair and maintenance and will have your unit up and running quickly.
How To Clean an AC Condenser Unit (DIY Guide)
Condenser coils are typically made of copper and contain refrigerant liquid. They’re usually located outdoors and attached to a large metal box (the condenser) along with the cooling fins and a fan.
Follow these steps to clean the condenser unit:
- Turn off the power to the AC to remove the risk of electrical shock.
- Remove the service panel or coil guard. In some cases, you may also have to remove the exhaust fan for access.
- Check the layers of coils for debris, such as leaves, lint, or dust, on the surface and between the rows.
- Use a soft brush or a shop vac with a brush hose attachment to remove as much surface dirt as possible from the coils and the base of the condenser unit. Be gentle, as the thin fins are easily damaged. If you use compressed air, be sure to aim between the fins in the opposite direction of the operating airflow.
- Choose a chemical cleaner and carefully follow all instructions. Rinse the coils with water before spraying the cleaner. A homemade mixture of dish soap and water also works.
- Let the solution sit for five to 10 minutes, then rinse with low water pressure or a gentle hose setting with a wide spray pattern.
- If you can, leave the unit open to dry before reassembling and turning the power back on.
Another step you can take as a homeowner is to keep weeds, grass, shrubbery, and other plants from growing too close to the outside unit. It’s recommended to clear at least two to three feet around the unit so vegetation can’t contribute to debris accumulation.
If you’re unsure how to get started or would prefer a professional to do the job for you, the team at QRC is more than happy to give your air conditioner a thorough once-over and get it back into prime condition.
When To Call a Professional
It’s likely time to call a professional for help if you notice any of the following:
- AC is making strange noises, like banging or squealing
- Leaks around the unit
- AC is running constantly
- A musty smell
- Increased electric bill
- Inconsistent temperatures throughout your home
One of the easiest ways to avoid problems like these is to schedule regular AC tune-ups. A qualified technician will check every element of your air conditioner, clean and adjust the system’s components, lubricate all moving parts, check refrigerant levels, and more. They’ll test the system’s performance before they go and let you know if you’ll need to replace your air conditioner soon.
QRC’s HVAC technicians are your local professionals. We understand the importance of a functioning AC in the humid summers when temperatures reach the high 90s. We’re EPA-certified and knowledgeable about all laws and regulations regarding energy efficiency.
We’ll assess the problem for you and fix the root cause. Trust our experienced, reliable technicians to do the job right.
Call QRC Today
Whether it’s time to replace your window AC or you just need someone to check out a strange noise coming from your unit, QRC’s techs are here for you. We’re a service-oriented company with over 50 years of experience, and we’re committed to providing high-quality service.
We offer AC maintenance, installation, and repair services, as well as heating and electrical services. Our service area includes Greensboro, Winston-Salem, High Point, Thomasville, and Lexington. If you’re in North or South Carolina and need AC services, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to have a professional clean my condenser unit?
The cost of maintaining an air conditioner depends on the type of unit, how long the cleaning takes, and the materials used.
Will cleaning the condenser unit extend the lifespan of my AC system?
Yes! The harder the AC has to work, the shorter its overall lifespan. Regular maintenance helps optimize the performance of your air conditioner so it works better and lasts longer.