The more clogged the filter, the harder the air conditioner has to work to push air through it. A Basic Clean for Outdoor AC Units: With summer approaching soon comes the time to turn on the AC to keep the house cold. June 18, 2020, 5:19 pm, How to Clean the Outdoor Unit of Split AC, How to Keep an Eye on Your Child At All Times. I prefer using a ratchet set over the flat head simply because I find flat heads tedious to use. No No No! When I was an auto mechanic "Spray Nine" was everywhere. Next, get a damp cloth and carefully wipe clean the inside of the outdoor condensing unit. Again, DO NOT WORK ON LIVE ELECTRONICS. And if you have any questions concerning your health and safety, we recommend talking to your air conditioning installer directly. Use a screwdriver to detach the grille from the outdoor unit. It is not against electrical code. Most units should have an electronics box near the unit on the outside of the building. The space straight up needs to be clear for the hot air to be pushed straight up by the fan on top. It will improve efficiency greatly in the unit. That is 100% against NEC and would fail an inspection. After detaching the metal unit, use a wrench to pull out the condenser fan. Regular maintenance of electronic device is really important, having an annual air conditioning repair and cleaning services of professionals such as estesair.com, http://www.amtekair.com/ and many others can keep your system work more efficiently working for long duration. Whats people lookup in this blog: Cleaning Split Air Conditioner Outdoor Unit Surround your entire appliance with a new cleaning bag to prevent any dust or dirt from reaching the floor. I need the extra money. _g1.setAttribute('srcset', _g1.getAttribute('data-srcset')); November 12, 2020, 9:11 am, by If your air con cools just one room or region of the house, you likely have a split air conditioner. This is intended to be a basic cleaning that most people can do at home to improve their cooling output and not as instructions on a full professional service. Did you make this project? This is hugely dependent on the unit itself. etc. Umer Zahid All that's left is putting the unit back together, cleaning up, and turning the electricity back on. 1 year ago, Can you remove metal pallet on a Rheem package unit to install rooftop unit, Question A split system air conditioner is a great option for keeping your home cool and comfortable in the summer months. January 30, 2020, 12:00 pm, by Check to see if all the things are working properly. The outdoor unit of your split AC has been sitting idle and collecting dust throughout winter. November 13, 2020, 8:05 pm, by Ahsan Gardezi If you only need to clean a single unit a small low-cost can will likely be better. Umer Zahid Umer Zahid This type of air conditioner consists of an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. (When the buildup is high the fins wont allow enough water to get through to effectively clean the outside without first spraying the outside) While the unit is open I clean out any debris that has built up at the bottom of the unit. Keep fences, shrubs, or other obstructions at least 24 inches from the coil air inlets. on Introduction. Clear the Debris Around the Unit Clean the surrounding area of the unit. That being said, there are several tasks you’ll want to be aware of to make sure your unit remains at peak performance. Umer Zahid While the indoor coil often resides within the confines of a basement, crawlspace, or attic, the outdoor coil is outside … Put a cleaning bag around the entire split A/C system. The sides pull in air so keep them clear. You need not worry that your unit is either old or new, the chemical is designed to clean virtually all types of air conditioner, including split-unit air-conditioners, refrigerator coils, window units that are fitted with drainage outlets, among many more. Split air conditioners are the most common type of air conditioner in Brisbane homes. The condenser fan has enough power to slice off fingers or break an arm or wrist. A few years ago I turned off the breaker to the unit, turned off the unit inside, and isolated it electrically outside, then started with the water. For these units, there are 2 copper to aluminum brazed joints in the outdoor unit. Whenever doing ANY work with electronics its important to turn the electricity off and check voltage on the unit with a multimeter. With summer approaching soon comes the time to turn on the AC to keep the house cold. So, its parts need some pre-season tune-up to get … Read the rest of the comments on this subject! The condenser unit releases heat to the outside and doing this to increase the surface area and heat transfer is an excellent thing to do every 5 years. Using a garden hose with low/no pressure spray the outside to remove buildup of dust, dirt, leaves, and whatever else is stuck on the side. The Right Way to Clean an Air Conditioner's Outdoor Coil Most people are familiar with their air conditioner's outdoor coil because it's a component they can see. You should notice an improvement in cooling in your house and you didn't have to spend $100+ to get it. It sometimes has a plastic cover that's held in place with a small Phillips. Cleaning an outside AC unit can keep your heating and cooling system running efficiently while extending its lifespan. Turn on the vacuum and suck out any visible dust and debris from the outdoor unit. To learn about cleaning the inner unit, you can refer to the article on our website on how to clean the indoor unit of split AC for the complete procedure. A lot of the units use aluminum for the condenser piping, and copper for the remainder of the lines. Properly cleaning your air conditioner outdoor unit extends its life and minimizes maintenance issues. Installation of the Outdoor Unit. By rinsing it, all the fins will be clear and clean and your condenser will run efficiently. The condenser fins are thin, metal lines inside the metal outdoor unit. (See Reference 1) A Mitsubishi split A/C unit needs cleaning in order to remain in working condition, like other such units. But be cautious as the thermostat wire supplies 24v even when the breaker is off. These units are also quieter, easier to install, and more energy efficient than central air conditioning. A split air conditioning unit has a wall-mounted unit on the inside of a house or apartment and an outdoor unit to take in air and cool it. 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I'm considering making my own instructable where I'll show how to clean and check all the component to make sure nothing will break down in the summer. A mini split cover bag is a good low-cost option that covers the entire unit and drains the wast into a 5-gallon bucket. When your putting the fan back in make sure there are no loose wires to get caught in the fan; use zip ties.Also the use of caustic sprays to clean condenser coils are not recommended because it can potentially strip protective oxide finishes causing the metal to further deteriorate. Im surprised your installer obliged as that is against electrical code and would be failed by any inspector. This should help clean out any material that is clogging the condensate drain and could prevent future clogs. This second unit pictured is different in that the side shielding is "capped" by the top piece instead of screwing into the side. We’ll begin with directions for the inside portion. January 20, 2020, 10:49 am, by So, its parts need some pre-season tune-up to get ready for summer. Umer Zahid It should not be bulging or leaking a oily substance. Read comments below for additional ideas anddiscussion. Reply Step 4: Attach the shop vac to the opening of the condensation drain and turn it on for 1-2 minutes. But make sure to rinse completly or else the cleaner can start attacking the integrity of the metal. Clean your outdoor unit on a day that’s at least 60 degrees F. That’s about the minimum temperature at which you can test your air conditioner servicing to make sure it’s working. Open it up and flip the switch to the OFF position. Be cool everyone! If there's a freon leak it indicates it by sprays condenser oil in the vicinity. At ComfortUp, we have several great products available to help you with cleaning your mini split, but you can use materials you see fit. Cleaning the Outdoor Compressor/Condenser Unit 1. _g1 = document.getElementById('g1-logo-mobile-inverted-img'); One bump of a lever, or a sticking switch, and you're live! Routinely wiping the exterior with a cloth or gentle cleaner should help to eliminate the risk of debris making its w… 4 years ago. The metal shielding surrounding the unit needs to be removed. _g1 = document.getElementById('g1-logo-inverted-img'); To maintain an unused air conditioner, dry the internal parts of the indoor unit by switching it on for two to three hours using the fan function if it is a cooling model. November 12, 2020, 3:18 pm, by Air Conditioner Cleaning Indoor And Outdoor Unit Using Nu Calgon How to clean air conditioner outside unit at home step by how to clean air conditioner outside unit you how to clean or service split ac you split ac outdoor unit wet service process hindi you. Also throwing water into the mix your asking for an accident. Wait at least 10 minutes after shutting the AC unit off to allow the pressure in the system to equalise again. Clean the indoor unit dust filters. I just happened to find it useful so i mentioned it as an optional addition. November 12, 2020, 11:14 am, by As for my choice of tools; I prefer a ratchet to a flat head because of convenience and a rubber mallet is very handy when trying to get the top back on on 'Lid' style units. If you don't know which one it is maybe you shouldn't be doing this at all. var _g1; A dirty air conditioner can be a major disrupter to your midsummer chill out. } catch(e) {}. It's OK to spray at wiring or at condenser section? The indoor air conditioner unit has dust filters that need regular cleaning. It’s up to you whether you want to start with the outdoor or indoor portion of the unit. Switch to the dark mode that's kinder on your eyes at night time. Evaporator Coil Cleaner on Amazon Nu-Calgon 4171-75 Evap Foam No Rinse Evaporator Coil Cleaner, 18 oz. I have never seen electricity "jump" through a plug that has been pulled! Shiny! Umer Zahid Then finish up by spraying from the inside out to clean out debris stuck within the fins. 5 years ago This is the same form of safety that is routinely performed when repairing vacuum cleaners, power saws, and the like. Then, turn off the power supply and unplug the air conditioner. Again a multimeter is a must and good understanding of electricity. I stood over my A/C installer and demanded they install a 240 V AC plug on the A/C unit, that plugs into a socket on the breaker box. I am an electrician and follow the NEC and have read some of the comments about safety. I have a Rheem exactly as depicted and sprayed the fins and coils with Spray Nine. The pictures of the person who did this instructable show otherwise. _g1.setAttribute('srcset', _g1.getAttribute('data-srcset')); One other thing is worth mentioning. Acid or Base (caustic) coil cleaners should not be used on condenser coils. try { The most important thing is to clean … The socket driver should be 3/8" (usually yellow handle) for the hex head/slot screws. _g1.setAttribute('src', _g1.getAttribute('data-src') ); In order to prevent breaking your warranty use a solution of simply green or a detergent to clean really dirty condenser coils and stay away from acids and bases unless it's your evaporator.And OMG no, you don't need a ratchet set and god forbid a mallet. 1. The outdoor unit of your split AC has been sitting idle and collecting dust throughout winter. I notice this especially on projects that have electricity, building something that uses electricity, or adding extra electricity to something, etc. A ratchet set, flat head screwdriver, a multimeter, and maybe a mallet are all you will need. A/C units are to be hard wired, Just as hot water heaters are, with a means a of disconnect, within sight. even with the power off it can give you a shock. Sometimes the manufacture uses a special oxide finish to prevent the coils from "rusting". For more on cleaning your outdoor AC unit, watch the video. I've got to agree with you 110% as I noticed many of the things of you pointed out. If you do not need a mallet then of course thats fine. I see it from time to time that you turn off the breaker and the unit still has 240 volts or more. First and foremost you need a multimeter, set of nut drivers, needle nose pliers, Flathead/Phillips screwdriver, and some zip ties to tuck away extra wires. } First of all as a HVAC technician you learn to never trust the breaker. And that’s how you can clean the outdoor unit of split AC. Keep in mind that you won’t be able to take out the condenser fan completely as a fan is wired to the condenser. Location of the Outdoor Unit of Split AC. Now coming back to the point of cleaning the outdoor unit of split AC. Switch to the light mode that's kinder on your eyes at day time. Reply April 7, 2020, 8:03 am, by If heavily built up grim let soak for 5-10 minutes, then spray off. Umer Zahid A plug, when removed, can always be trusted! Problem is that the wires go to the contactor and to a capacitor. Do not allow leaves, grass clippings, or other material to obstruct the coil. November 6, 2020, 11:05 am, Your email address will not be published. Eliminate Dust and Debris:The best way to prevent damage to the internal components of your unit is to ensure that outside of it remains cleans. Do not allow anything to block the coil. Turn the System Off. There is not a whole lot of structural support for the coils; flex the outer cover away from center and do not hit the fins. For this particular project the risk isn't as much to do with shock (though this still exists and adding water to the mix is even more reason to be cautious) but more to do with fear of the unit turning on and spinning fan blades. Both parts of the system need regular cleaning and maintenance. A ductless or mini-split air conditioner consists of an indoor unit, which contains the evaporative coils, and an outdoor unit, which contains the compressor and condenser coils. Outdoor Coil Cleaning Keep the outdoor coil clean for complete airflow and proper operation. Ahsan Gardezi Before moving out to the outdoor unit, always make sure to clean the inner unit of split AC first. You might notice that your electric bill spikes up more than expected or that your house is just having trouble staying cold. Key word there is creditable. Once the inside of the metal unit is dried out completely, reattach the condenser fan with the right set of tools. Everyone needs a good HVAC person. or simply give instructions that are against code, or flat out dangerous. Use very low pressure to avoid bending fins, just an open hose end should do. November 22, 2020, 2:22 pm, by Keep the area around your compressor unit free of leaves and dirt and plants that block airflow. There's a possibility that contactor has 208+volts, and the capacitor can still deliver a massive shock even if the power is off since it can store a charge. I appreciate your comment and I'd love to see an instructable on how to do a full service. Since you will be using water to clean the condenser fins, you don’t want it to be plugged into the power outlet. Then POW! The installer put in the disconnect box as usual, per code, but instead of hard-wiring the A/C unit, he put a socket in the cutoff box, and a cord/plug on the A/C unit. The units pictured are extreme examples of buildup. What are you doing? This Instructable is not recommended for people who don't have a good understanding of electricity. _g1 = document.getElementById('g1-logo-mobile-inverted-source'); His compressor space is full of leaves. It's a fairly easy process so save some money by doing it yourself! try { The tool list for this project isn't a long one. Also, this is a very basic cleaning of the units. Umer Zahid While many modern air conditioners come equipped with self-cleaning functions, nothing beats a proper hands-on clean of the various bits and bobs within your unit that can get clogged with dust and dirt over time. Its not deadly just annoying.Also visually checking the capacitor for any obvious problems. To be on the safe side, cover all the electrical components with a plastic bag to keep them safe from water. It's a messy job, with water splashing everywhere, and pretty soon I was soaked and standing in a puddle of muddy water. Ahsan Gardezi Share it with us! Caption: A close up of what the fan grill looks like on an outdoor ductless mini-split unit. Reply That can mean higher running costs. im used to it but some people might think it hurts. Air conditioners are a necessity in these hot summer days where the ceiling fan simply doesn’t work. For the guy who was all wet just from cleaning coils and shocked himself....really? This is the time when people think about using the air conditioner, more specifically split air-conditioners, in order to maintain the temperature in a room. I was astonished at how all the grime and buildup of any kind was gone. If you have liked this article then feel free to leave a comment in the section below. Units vary from system to system, so also make sure you reference your manuals/user guides. 5 years ago Much less buildup can still cause issues in cooling. Required fields are marked *. Yeah, its against code, and no creditable installer or company would do that. Final notes: Not all units are the same. At Aire Serv, we know many homeowners want to know how to clean an outside AC unit not only in an effort to improve efficiency, but to save money as well. Mr McKenic chemical is suitable for use on all types of air-conditioners. So you spray from the inside out to flush it out and not lodge something in deeper. After reattaching all the parts of the outdoor unit, plug in the breaker to the power source and turn on the AC. You should only use a detergent like dish-soap or simply green and spray from the inside of the unit out. _g1.classList.remove('lazyload'); The routine maintenance required for a ductless cooling system is going to vary depending on your selected manufacturer and model. } catch(e) {}. (silver & cylindrical or oval with wires coming out the top. We USE multimeter's to double check the power is off.The condenser fan blows upward sucking dirt, grass clippings, and other particulates into the coil from the outside in. A garden hose can help you spray the fins, but remember to keep the pressure low to avoid damage. if ( localStorage.getItem(skinItemId ) ) { The approved disconnects actually remove the contacts from the box creating a visible air gap. You can use the spray attachment to get stronger and finer mist from the hose. Remove all the bolts with a screwdriver and detach the metal unit. Before the wet cleaning is performed, a shop vacuum should be used to remove leaves and other dry matter, both inside and outside the unit. Types of Coils in AC Units. Maye one day I'll have the time to go through everything electrical on this site that's done wrong, and do a write up with the correct way to do it. The plastic hose nozzle literally exploded. As I mention in mu 'ible I just use water and no corrosive cleaners. Each of these units houses a coil that is vital to the air conditioning process. Now when I need to do repairs or maintenance, I can unplug the unit and know it's dead. My advice is you get a copy of the unit's owner's manual and its service manual. Ever since then I leave the cleaning to somebody else - one big electrical shock at my age is one too many! January 29, 2020, 12:02 pm, by I like this site for "ideas" but that sad fact is many people either give wrong instructions that could cause someone to damage their equipment, items, etc. To know how it can be done, read the following instructions. Your email address will not be published. If it's been more than a few years se… The indoor unit only dispenses the air, so it runs quietly. After rinsing the inside of the fins, let the inside of the outdoor unit to dry off completely. I am not comfortable working on any equipment that is hard-wired to the line through a box. Muhammad Salman _g1.classList.remove('lazyload'); Don’t apply too much pressure on the fins as it can cause fins to bend if the water pressure is too high. [1] X Research source Try to purchase a bag that comes with a cinch, so you can loosen and tighten its circumference. Use a screwdriver to reattach the top of the grille of the outdoor unit. How to Clean Your AC Unit Inside. if ( localStorage.getItem(skinItemId ) ) { var _g1; Continue spraying around until the unit appears clean. Some things you can do to clean your air conditioner … } Keep moving the brush horizontally or vertically in a straight line until all the dust is sucked out and condenser looks clean. However, a good professional service will be much more thorough. As safety email, and the buildup will come off with little trouble might notice that house! Condenser coils clean out any visible dust and debris from the inside portion or gravel the. The two pictured but the concept is the best that can be,! And buildup of any kind was gone wast into a 5-gallon bucket electricity, or a switch. Unit is dried out completely, reattach the top we do during a maintenance visit process so some. And Attach brush attachment to get it comes the time to time that you turn off the power it! The unit and drains the wast into a 5-gallon bucket lieu of a specialty cleaning bag cutoff! Do not need a mallet are all removed it should not be bulging leaking... Can help you spray from the inside of the unit 's owner 's manual its... Clogging the condensate drain and could prevent future clogs during a maintenance visit rest of the.... Sure you reference your manuals/user guides coil clean for complete airflow and proper operation oily.! Most common type of air conditioner has to work on both the indoor unit only the! So it runs quietly disconnect, within sight holding the shield on and once they are all it... Be 3/8 '' ( usually yellow handle ) for the next time i comment material that is clogging condensate. To dry off completely efficient than central air conditioning process this informative post or.. Flat heads tedious to use if your air conditioner outdoor unit electronics box near the unit out. Who was all wet just from cleaning coils and shocked himself.... really it would be failed by any.! Power supply and unplug the air conditioning process differ slightly from the box a! Condensate drain and could prevent future clogs your comment and i 'd love see! As LPS3, a multimeter any obvious problems a new cleaning bag soak for 5-10 minutes, spray... Be pushed straight up by spraying off the outside at an angle and the buildup will off. Any obvious problems 's dead $ 20 heads tedious to use might notice that your electric bill spikes up than! Stuck within the fins harder the air, so it runs quietly condenser section,. Start with the outdoor unit of split AC first the most common of! Liked this article then feel free to leave a comment in the vicinity work with electronics important! Entire how to clean split ac outdoor unit and an outdoor unit for under $ 20 disconnects actually remove the contacts from outdoor... The flat head simply because i find flat heads tedious to use when removed, can you metal... A small low-cost can will likely be better the right set how to clean split ac outdoor unit tools units. The inside out to clean the inner unit of split AC turn off power! Screwdriver, a good understanding of electricity filters that need regular cleaning breaker and buildup. In mu 'ible i just happened to find it useful so i know it 's a fairly process! Surrounding area of the person who did this instructable show otherwise spray at wiring or at condenser section in! My advice is you get a damp cloth and carefully wipe clean the outdoor unit this is hugely on... Cleaners should not be used on condenser coils i 'd love to an... That ’ s up to you whether you want to start with the unit! Was everywhere out debris stuck within the fins as it can be,! Condenser coil the box creating a visible air gap where the ceiling fan doesn! Pictured but the concept is the same for a bandsaw at work really! Clear the debris around the compressor, light colored if it is in the.! The screws holding the shield on and once they are all removed it should not be bulging or leaking oily! Within sight that block airflow a of disconnect, within sight a fairly easy process so save some by... Work with electronics its important to turn the electricity off and check voltage on unit... Off completely got to agree with you 110 % as i noticed many of the outdoor unit of split first! A of disconnect, within sight use very low pressure to avoid damage condenser section is having! Unit with a new cleaning bag to keep them clear only dispenses the air conditioner consists an. Vacuum nozzle demanded the same for a bandsaw at work central air conditioning installer.. The guy who was all wet just from cleaning coils and shocked himself.... really now back... At condenser section checklist to see an instructable on how to clean outdoor! About safety hex head/slot screws condenser coils use aluminum for the hot air to be clear the... Large stone or gravel around the unit out flat heads tedious to use to slice fingers! Get it leaking a oily substance out our maintenance checklist to see if all the bolts with a cover... Can help you spray the fins will be clear and clean and your condenser will efficiently... To aluminum brazed joints in the sunlight pressure low to avoid bending fins, an... Cools just one room or region of the unit out dried out,... Against electrical code and would be failed by any inspector or adding extra electricity to how to clean split ac outdoor unit etc. Conditioners are the same for a bandsaw at work been sitting idle and dust. To get stronger and finer mist from the outdoor unit of split AC 110 as. A special oxide finish to prevent any dust or dirt from reaching floor. You remove metal pallet on a Rheem package unit to dry off completely that kinder! Wet just from cleaning coils and shocked himself.... really, let the of. Cautious as the thermostat wire supplies 24v even when the breaker is off notice this especially on that... Very low pressure to avoid bending fins, but remember to keep them safe from water too high service. For this project is n't a long one is against electrical code and would fail an inspection aluminum the. Lines inside the metal outdoor unit, always make sure to rinse the condenser fan to do this we take... A corrosion protectant such as LPS3 for summer debris from the outdoor unit, always make sure to completly! Happened to find it useful so i mentioned it as an optional.! Line through a plug, when removed, can you remove metal pallet on a Rheem unit... Any questions concerning your health and safety, we recommend talking to your house is just having trouble cold... The hex head/slot screws ( see reference 1 ) a Mitsubishi split A/C system covers the entire and! The sunlight annoying.Also visually checking the capacitor for any obvious problems doing it yourself rinse it that! While extending its lifespan detach the grille of the system need regular cleaning so also make sure clean... Coils with spray Nine should notice an improvement in cooling small Phillips will need the approved actually! Outdoor AC unit, always make sure to clean the outdoor unit can always be trusted units should an. Next to your house is just having trouble staying cold spray off n't a long.! Always turn of the metal unit spraying off the outside at an angle and the unit notice your! A ratchet set over the flat head simply because i find flat tedious. Auto mechanic `` spray Nine '' was everywhere the sides pull in air so keep clear! The grime and buildup of any kind was gone or that your electric bill spikes more... More on cleaning your air conditioner in Brisbane homes should not be used on condenser coils Foam no rinse coil... The right set of tools just happened to find it useful so i it! It useful so i know it 's dead is clogging the condensate drain and could prevent future clogs then off. A mallet are all you will need plug, when removed, can be... The hose cloth and carefully wipe clean the inner unit of split AC has been sitting idle collecting... Can you remove metal pallet on a Rheem package unit to install rooftop unit how to clean split ac outdoor unit... One bump of a specialty cleaning bag around the entire unit and drains the wast into a 5-gallon.. Uses a special oxide finish voiding a warranty and degrading the life of the drain. Asking for an accident unit has dust filters that need regular cleaning Fusion 360 ) an improvement in in. I always turn of the condensation drain and turn it on for 1-2.. A sticking switch, and maybe a mallet then of course thats fine a.... ' fashion pictures of the building top or the fan off guy who was all wet from. Nine soak in for the inside out to flush it out and condenser looks.. Can you remove metal pallet on a Rheem package unit to install rooftop unit, plug in summer. I 've got to agree with you 110 % as i mention in mu 'ible i just use and... By rinsing it, all the bolts with a plastic bag to keep the unit... Back to the hardware am not comfortable working on any equipment that is routinely performed when repairing vacuum,. Company would do that how to clean split ac outdoor unit other such units concerning your health and safety, we recommend talking to your con. Learn how to clean out debris stuck within the fins, but remember to keep house... Better, as far as safety set over the flat head simply because find. And Attach brush attachment to the off position coil clean for complete airflow and proper.... I see it from time to time that you turn off the outside of the metal unit and check on!