June 20, 2021
Dirty AC in Northeast Florida

AC systems need a full list of seasonal tasks to keep them running as expected. Right before summer starts, you’ll need to complete the tasks or hire an HVAC professional to do them for you. With seasonal maintenance services, you extend the longevity of your air conditioning unit.

Inspections are a great service and help you find common problems faster. We can complete a full inspection for you and clean out the AC thoroughly.

The Importance of Air Filters

Air filters capture dirt and debris while the AC system runs. They are your first line of defense against pathogens, allergens, and contaminants. Without an air filter, these substances circulate through your home. Without a clean filter, you could experience increased allergy symptoms and even illnesses.

First, check your air filter and ensure that it is the right product for your AC system. A common issue is an air filter that is the wrong size. We measure your system for you and provide the correct dimensions for your air filter.

When cleaning your AC, the first task is replacing the air filter. If it is disposable, you’ll throw out the old filter and replace it with a new filter.

Reusable air filters are also great products, and some filters are machine washable. After washing your air filter, place it back into the unit.

Clean the AC Grille

The fastest and most efficient way to clean the AC grille is to take it outside and hose it down. First, spray it with a warm-water and soap mixture.

Scrub it with a soft bristle brush and rinse it with the hose. Once you’re finished cleaning the AC unit, you’ll put the grille back in place. Dry the grille completely before reconnecting it to the unit.

Cleaning the Coils

Start with the evaporator coil since you have the grille off the interior unit. Since it’s often harder to get to, you may want to hire a professional to clean it for you.

Call McGowan's Heating & Air Conditioning now to speak to a professional

We use component-specific cleansers for the evaporator coil. No-rinse foam cleaners are the best and decrease the risk of corrosion. We use a soft-bristle brush to clean away debris. The fins on the evaporator coil are delicate, and we clean the component as gently as possible.

Air filter replacement

To function properly, the fins on the evaporator coil must remain straight. We will straighten the fins if necessary. Once we clean the component, we’ll test its functionality. If it is faulty, we offer a complete estimate for replacing it.

Managing the Condenser Coils

When cleaning the condenser coil, it’s necessary to remove the exterior casing. You may have to remove or lift up the fan depending on the AC model. The condenser coil is easier to clean than the evaporator coil since it’s outside the home.

Spray a water and bleach mixture onto the component. Scrub it with a soft-bristle brush until all debris is gone. Rinse the component with your water hose. Review the fins and ensure they are straight, too.

Clean the Blower and Fans

Despite your best efforts, debris accumulates in the blower and on the fan. Moisture inside the unit allows mold and mildew to develop on the components. A no-rinse cleaner is a great choice for the blower and the fan. You can wipe the components down after the cleaner lifts the dirt and debris away.

If mold is further into the AC unit, you need mold removal services. We can clean mold and mildew out of the AC for you. We have effective products that kill mold and mildew to stop them from spreading. This improves the way the system operates and improves your air quality.

Air conditioning units

Clean Out the Condensate Drain and Its Pan

The condensate drain is easy to find and manage. It’s connected from the exterior unit to your home. Look for a PVC pipe that is T-shaped around the back of the exterior unit.

To clean it, open the cap and pour a mixture of 50% bleach and 50% hot water into the line. Let it stay in the line for at least half an hour to clean mold and mildew out of the drain. Flush out the mixture with your water hose, and put the cap back into place.

When cleaning the condensate pan, use a shop vacuum to remove all standing water. Spray it down with a mixture of hot water and a gentle cleanser. Use a brush to clean all mold and mildew off the pan. Rinse it thoroughly and allow it to dry.

Test and Clean the Thermostat

Unscrew the cover from the thermostat. Dust the interior components with a thin, unused paintbrush. Continue until all dust and dirt are gone. Use a thin piece of paper like a post-it to clean cracks. Insert the post-it along the edges and slide it back and forth until all corners are clean.

Review the wires running to the thermostat. If you see any loose or damaged wires, let us know and we’ll set up repair services. Don’t try to fix wiring issues on your own. If there aren’t any signs of damage replace the batteries as needed. Clean the thermostat cover completely before screwing it back into place.

Thermostat

Clean Debris From the Ductwork and Clean the Air Registers

Unscrew and remove the duct covers. Wrap the duct covers with paper towels and set them back in place. The paper towels stop debris from blowing into your living spaces. Adjust the thermostat to the fan setting and engage the system.

Go to your basement or crawlspace and tap on the ductwork with a scrub brush handle. It loosens up the dirt, dust, and debris in the ductwork. By tapping on the ductwork, you loosen up the debris that may have become damp or stuck inside the duct.

Open the supply register and place your vacuum hose inside it. Turn on the vacuum and secure it in place. As the fan pushes debris through the ductwork, the vacuum sucks it out. Remove one duct cover and reach into the duct with a scrub brush.

Use the brush to push all visible debris toward the vacuum. If there isn’t any more visible debris, you can shut off the vacuum and the system. Brush all debris from the return registers and wipe them down with the cloth.

Remove the duct covers and the paper towels and wipe inside each duct with a dampened cloth. Microfiber is the most effective. Replace each duct cover after cleaning the duct. Throw the paper towels in the trash.

Lubricate All Moving Parts as Directed

The AC system manufacturer outlines all maintenance requirements in the product warranty. It details all AC maintenance tasks for the system. After the entire AC unit is completely clean, the last step is to lubricate all the moving parts.

The warranty outlines what parts to lubricate and what lubricant to use. The compressor and fan motor may need lubricants more than once a year.

Where to Get AC Services

At McGowan's Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer superior air conditioning services for commercial and residential property owners in Jacksonville and the surrounding area. We offer our Max’s Cool Club Maintenance Plan that addresses all seasonal AC services.

We provide you with comprehensive seasonal cleaning services and inspections. If we find a problem, we provide a complete estimate for all repair services. To learn more about our services, come visit us today!

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