I decided this morning was the time to clean the condenser coils on my outside unit. I try to do this once each season, and usually do the same for some in-laws. A/C's last much longer when the coils are kept clean, and operate more efficiently, which helps with the electricity usage.
It's not a long project. It usually takes about an hour, and involves removing the side panels for access to the coils. Turning off the unit, and killing the power to the outside unit is first. Removing some sheet metals screw is next. Easing up the fan housing allows the side covers to be removed. Usually, a few will just fall out. After the coils are exposed, I spray on a commercial coil cleaner, allow it to work for a few minutes, and then flood the coils with water to remove the cleaner. I'll flush out around the compressor at the bottom, and rinse around the base.
It took the amount of time I figured, and the project came out good, but that little time in the heat led to being soaked with sweat, which doesn't dry in the high humidity of morning. That, and without anything to evaporate the sweat, I felt like I had run a marathon. I might should have waited for evening, when the unit is in the shade.
I might venture this afternoon, when shade allows, and take care of the in-laws units....or not. I will clean them over the next few days, but maybe only one a day.
Take your time. Slow and easy wins the race.
ReplyDeleteIt does. I ended up cleaning one in-laws unit. I thought I did it last year, but looking at the coils, either I didn't, or their dusty yard added a lot of dirt when they mowed.
DeleteYeah, I need to do that. I'll wait until it's cooler.
ReplyDeleteThe bigger units require a helper. Manipulating the fan, and placing the panels back in place is more than I can do by myself.
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