When summer temperatures spike you want your air conditioning in Los Gatos, CA to work at optimal efficiency so it can keep your home cool. Part of your routine maintenance should include periodically cleaning system components. The benefits of cleaning and maintaining your HVAC system include prolonged lifespan, efficient operation, cost savings, enhanced airflow, cleaner air, and peace of mind.  Here are a few steps you can follow   

1. When working on the HVAC system you should always turn off the power to the outdoor unit at the main electrical panel and the disconnect box near the condenser.You also want to kill power to the indoor unit.This will keep you safe and prevent damage.  

2. Remove the cover and clear the area around your outdoor unit. Use a broom or vacuum with a hose to remove dirt. Then you want about three feet of clearance all around your unit for optimal airflow.Clear away any grass, debris,weeds, and foliage.  

3. Check the unit for signs of damage. Pay close attention to tubes and wires connecting the home to the compressor. If you see breaks or deterioration you should contact a professional technician for repair.

3. Remove the housing from the compressor unit. Use the owner’s manual to locate the condenser coils, fins, and wires. Gently clean the coils and fins with a garden hose or vacuum cleaner and a brush. Be careful, because parts are delicate and you don’t want to break anything. You can also use a rag to wipe the fan blades.

4. If you have an extra set of hands to help and are comfortable, you can also unscrew the fan. It is wired to the main unit and you need to be careful not to stress the connections so you will need someone to hold the fan when you disconnect it. This gives you better access the interior portion of the condenser for a more thorough cleaning.

5. Scoop away or vacuum any debris that has accumulated at the base of your equipment. Then reattach the fan and secure the outside covering.

6. 6. Fortunately,the indoor unit does not accumulate grass and yard waste, but dirt and debris can still build up. Again you want to give the indoor unit plenty of clearance. You shouldn’t store anything in proximity to the air handler, especially flammable items.

7. 7. On the inside,you should check the assembly of tubes and evaporator coil and vacuum away dust. You should also look for deteriorated or loose wires.

8. 8. To avoid leaks you should check the drip pan under the evaporator coil for corrosion. The pan also has a pipe to drain water to a floor drain. To keep this clear pour a cup of bleach and gallon of water down the drain once per year.

9. You should check and replace any clogged air filters.Now,you are ready to test the air conditioning. 

10. To finish maintenance restore power and check to make sure your system is operating.

Most of these simple cleaning tasks you can handle as the homeowner, but if you are intimidated or unable to clean your air conditioning in Los Gatos, CA yourself you can certainly contact a certified technician for assistance. If you need more extensive cleaning or maintenance call Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning. We can help ensure the best system efficiency and highest air quality. To reach our office stop by 1045 N 10th St., San Jose, CA 95112. Or if you have questions about air conditioning cleaning and maintenance you can call (408) 978-7060.