How To Properly Clean Air Conditioners in Spring?

Why Spring Cleaning Your AC Is Essential

Your air conditioner worked hard last summer and sat dormant all winter. That combo creates the perfect recipe for dust, pollen, mold, and even small animals to make themselves at home in your unit.

Cleaning your AC in the spring has a wide range of benefits:

• Improved Energy Efficiency – A clean AC runs more smoothly, reducing energy usage.
• Better Indoor Air Quality – Removing dirt and allergens helps your family breathe easier.
• Extended System Life – Routine cleaning prevents wear and tear on vital components.
• Fewer Repairs – Catching issues early means fewer unexpected breakdowns in July.

Whether you’re maintaining a single-family home or a commercial property, spring is the perfect time to reset your system and prepare for warmer days ahead.

Step-by-Step Guide – How To Properly Clean Your Air Conditioner in Spring

Ready to roll up your sleeves? Here's your DIY guide to getting your AC in peak condition.

1. Turn Off the Power

Before you do anything, shut off power to your AC unit. This can usually be done at your thermostat and at the breaker box. Working on an active system can be dangerous — safety first!

2. Clean or Replace the Air Filter

This simple step has a huge impact. A dirty filter restricts airflow, making your AC work harder and increasing your energy bills. Ideally, filters should be changed every 1–3 months, especially if you have pets or allergies.

3. Remove Debris Around the Outdoor Unit

Your condenser unit (outside your home) tends to gather leaves, twigs, and dirt over the fall and winter. Clear a 2-foot radius around the unit to allow unrestricted airflow and prevent overheating.

4. Clean the AC Coils

The evaporator and condenser coils absorb heat and are critical to your system's performance. When they’re dirty, heat transfer suffers, and your AC becomes inefficient.

• Use a soft brush or coil cleaner spray (available at hardware stores).
• Let the cleaner sit for about 10 minutes and gently rinse off if needed.
• Never use a pressure washer — it can damage the fins and coils.

5. Straighten and Clean the Fins

Your AC fins (on the outdoor unit) can bend easily, blocking airflow.

• Use a fin comb to straighten bent fins.
• Gently spray with a garden hose (never high pressure) to remove dust and grime.

6. Check the Drain Line

Your condensate drain line removes the moisture that your AC collects. Over time, it can clog with algae or debris.

• Mix 1 cup of vinegar with warm water and pour it down the line.
• This helps prevent backups and mold growth in your system.

7. Test the Thermostat and Power It Back On

Once everything is cleaned and reassembled, turn the power back on and test your thermostat. Set it to cooling mode and make sure your AC responds quickly and cools effectively.

When to Call a Professional HVAC Technician

While basic cleaning is a great DIY task, some things are better left to the pros. Here are a few signs it’s time to call in an expert like EVS Mechanical Inc.:

• Your AC still isn’t cooling properly after cleaning.
• You hear unusual noises (clanking, hissing, grinding).
• There are visible refrigerant leaks or ice on the coils.
• The unit frequently turns on and off (short cycling).
• You want a thorough inspection before summer hits.

Professional technicians can also spot issues before they become expensive repairs — saving you money and stress in the long run.