Cleaning the Evaporator Coils
Step 1
Shut off the air conditioning unit before cleaning the coils. It is best to shut the electricity off at the breaker box.
Step 2
Take off the cover over the evaporator coils by removing the screws holding it onto the unit. Set the screws aside so they will not be lost.
Step 3
Spray on an even layer of rinse-free coil cleaner, which you can purchase at most home improvement centers. Allow the cleaner to sit on the coils for 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 4
Wipe the surface of the coils with a soft absorbent cloth. Replace the cover and secure with the screws using a screwdriver.
Cleaning the Condenser Coils
Step 1
Remove the metal housing for the condenser coils. Generally, you must remove a number of screws along the bottom edge that hold the cover in place. Each unit is a little different; consult the owner's manual for removal on your particular make and model.
Step 2
Rinse the coils with a medium-strength stream of clear water from a garden hose. Keep the water stream pointing straight at the coils so as not to damage them.
Step 3
Spray on a layer of the coil cleaner. Allow another 5 or 10 minutes for the product to sit on the condenser coils before rinsing with clear water.
Step 4
Replace the metal housing.
Step 5
Turn the electricity back on to the air conditioning unit.