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1. Turn off the 240-volt power at the appliance shutoff box. It’s usually outside within sight of the outdoor unit. Some shutoffs simply pull out; others have a handle to pull down or a fuse to remove. If there isn’t one, turn off the power at the circuit breaker at the main panel that controls the outdoor unit.
Tip
Schedule the pros early—don’t wait for the first heat wave, when they’re superbusy repairing breakdowns and installing new units!
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2. Vacuum the condenser fins with a soft-bristle brush attachment. The metal fins are delicate; avoid bending them. Clear away weeds, grass and other debris that block airflow through the coil. You often have to unscrew a protective metal case and lift it off to get at the condenser fins.
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3. Unscrew the top grille and hold it open. The fan will usually come with it, so support it carefully to avoid stretching the electrical wires and stressing the connections. If the fan doesn’t lift out, avoid hitting it with a direct spray of water when you clean the fins.
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4. Spray the fins with a garden hose from the inside outward to clear dirt. Remove the debris that’s collected on the bottom. Evict mice and other critters that might have moved in over the winter! Then screw the top back on.
Tip
Cover your outdoor unit in winter with plywood (Photo 1) to prevent damage from falling ice. Don’t wrap it with plastic or any other material that completely blocks airflow. Moisture that’s trapped inside will promote corrosion.
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5. Turn the power back on and adjust the thermostat so the outdoor unit comes on. Listen for odd noises that might indicate damage or wear. After 10 minutes, pull back the insulation on the insulated pipe (or pipes, if you have a heat pump). It should feel cool, about 60 degrees. The other pipe should feel warm, about skin temperature. If either doesn’t feel right, call in a pro to check the refrigerant level.
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6. Check the furnace filter and change it if it’s dirty to keep dust from collecting on the evaporator coil fins. Turn off the power to the furnace before pulling the filter so the blower doesn’t come on and blow dust throughout the system. Orient the filter according to the instructions printed on it.
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7. Open the blower compartment (with the power turned off) and lubricate any accessible ports on the blower motor with electric motor oil. Many newer blowers don’t have ports, or if they do, they’re inaccessible. Vacuum up any dust that has collected in the compartment.
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8. Check the condensation drain for sludge and algae growth. If it’s partially clogged, pour a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 16 parts water) through the tube. This rigid plastic tube can’t be removed unless you cut it. Flexible tubes should be removed and cleaned. If possible, poke a wire into the drain port to make sure it’s not blocked.
Copyright ©2005 Home Service Publications, Inc.
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