How To Clean Your AC and Coils Like the Pros Do | WILL Make Air Blow Colder

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  • Опубликовано: 17 мар 2023
  • In this video I show you how to properly clean your air conditioning unit and the condenser coils to get it running at peak efficiency. I go over some items that are incredibly important to pay attention to that are not being widely taught to look out for. By getting your air conditioner cleaned properly it will allow for it to last longer and also get it ready for summer weather so that it does a better job of keeping you cool.
    Items In the Video:
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    2nd Choice Viper Coil Cleaner: amzn.to/3ZZ8g6h
    Klein 2 in 1 5/16 & 3/4 Driver: amzn.to/3TnqKef
    Garden Hose Sprayer: amzn.to/3n2b18g
    Dewalt Shop Vac: amzn.to/400abaO
    Check Out These Videos:
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    ALSO, here is our How To Home Amazon Store, where you can find many of the tools, items, and shirts I use and wear in my videos! amzn.to/3mcqu1E
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    Thank you for watching and for subscribing. You can support the channel at no cost to you by using one of the above affiliate links. This helps support the channel for new content!
    Blessings,
    Adam
    How To Home assumes no liability for damage or injury. How To Home highly recommends using proper safety procedures and professionals when needed. Our content is for entertainment purposes only. No information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not How To Home. How To Home will not be held liable for any negligent or accidental damage or injury resulting from equipment, tools, electrical, fire, electronics or any items contained in this video. Attempt projects and repairs at your own risk.
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Комментарии • 2 тыс.

  • @HowToHomeDIY
    @HowToHomeDIY  Год назад +204

    I am curious. How long has it been since your AC unit was cleaned?

    • @moonovermiami9787
      @moonovermiami9787 Год назад +74

      Oh, This video was very helpful!! Haven't cleaned it ever... It's 5 yrs old. I didn't even know there was such a thing as a coil cleaner product. Thank You Much!!!

    • @monkeyfoodgarden
      @monkeyfoodgarden Год назад +9

      Last year. Thank y'all

    • @kellyr6274
      @kellyr6274 Год назад +27

      Omg, never knew had to be. My bad 🤦

    • @RoadKen53
      @RoadKen53 Год назад

      Only once a year unless we have a haboob come through getting everything covered with dust.
      Here's a good example of a dust storm: ruclips.net/video/8vQMuwRjI6s/видео.html

    • @djdonald243
      @djdonald243 Год назад +32

      @@moonovermiami9787 Same. We hired a guy to check on status of the AC, and he pointed out how dirty to coils look on the outside and wanted a few hundred dollars to clean it, so here I am.

  • @toddmassey2210
    @toddmassey2210 11 месяцев назад +432

    Im an A/C contractor and I approve this video. I might add pay attention to the length of the screws you take out. On some units the screws for the electrical component compartment are longer and if you use them on the coil grates it can puncture the coil.

    • @David-ry4jq
      @David-ry4jq 11 месяцев назад +23

      Very cool of you to add this comment. No pun intended.

    • @ua7pyro591
      @ua7pyro591 11 месяцев назад +4

      LMFAO. People really need that common sense reminder.

    • @toddmassey2210
      @toddmassey2210 11 месяцев назад +14

      @@ua7pyro591 unfortunately they do. I have seen new techs do it, so it wouldnt be hard for a home owner

    • @emiliosernajr.5312
      @emiliosernajr.5312 10 месяцев назад +2

      Idk WHY in the world people don't just (professionally) install a gas shock spring to the x2 and instead of using the absolute worst kind of combination being those stupid ass 5/16 sheet metal screws instead of mocking up hinges and cutting screws down to size with locking knylon nuts and the most important on f use non cofj

    • @lchase7858
      @lchase7858 9 месяцев назад +31

      I like to take masking tape and tape the screw I remove to the top of the unit in the position I remove it. The tape holds the screw un place and I simply remove the screw and tape when I get ready to reinstall the screw. Two birds with one stone...you don't mix the srews up and you hold them in place.

  • @jcwoods2311
    @jcwoods2311 Год назад +335

    To secure the cover/fan assembly I put an A-Frame ladder next to the unit on the wiring conduit side and use rubber tie down bungees to tie it up. Great when working alone.

    • @riverraisin1
      @riverraisin1 Год назад +18

      Great tip. I would never leave that unsecured. If I did I 100% guarantee it would fall over and damage the unit or me. Your suggestion is excellent!

    • @jcwoods2311
      @jcwoods2311 Год назад +18

      @@riverraisin1 I have the scars on my noggin to show a little sense was knocked into me. Just a little. 😳

    • @TexaSurvival
      @TexaSurvival 11 месяцев назад +4

      This is gold!

    • @jcwoods2311
      @jcwoods2311 11 месяцев назад +2

      @@TexaSurvival I'll take 2 ounces. Thank you.

    • @workingman2025
      @workingman2025 11 месяцев назад +3

      You must have been controlling me with your brain... I thought of the same thing as he was putting that up on the side!! LOL

  • @archj01
    @archj01 11 месяцев назад +151

    Thank you for creating this video. My 3 year old AC was blowing out warm air. The company I purchased the unit from came to check the unit and told me I needed a new compressor and quoted me 4K to replace it. Kind of strange since the unit was under warranty for parts. After watching your video, I replaced my filter and cleaned all of the coils on the AC. Turned it on and it works fine now. Thank you again. You saved me lots of money.

    • @elenasunshine
      @elenasunshine 10 месяцев назад +13

      I'd fire that AC company.

    • @erkl8823
      @erkl8823 10 месяцев назад +2

      "filter" as in the filter in the house? Or some other filter?

    • @ElevatedVehicles
      @ElevatedVehicles 9 месяцев назад +1

      What filter?

    • @Barracuda48082
      @Barracuda48082 9 месяцев назад +4

      Smack the tech who tried that. 2x

    • @ahayseed654
      @ahayseed654 9 месяцев назад +1

      ​@@erkl8823 If your heat and air come out the same vents, yes, the furnace filter.

  • @140gecko
    @140gecko 8 месяцев назад +23

    Wow, so helpful. Just had AC guys here to do check and said I needed condensers cleaned
    Tried to get me a contract. So looked for a video on how to. Great video. I am a 73 yr. Old lady and I'm going to go out and do it myself. Thanks so much!!!

    • @stilllovintheoldies
      @stilllovintheoldies Месяц назад

      How did it go? I'm wanting to do mine myself also but have never tried to do anything on the HVAC. I've fixed a lot of things around the house but I'm a little scared on this one.

  • @USNveteran
    @USNveteran Год назад +1426

    My father was in commercial HVAC all his life. He told me to never use those commercial cleaners as they are corrosive and can cause refrigerant leaks in your system. What he told me to use is the heavy duty simple green mixed with water. Been doing it for years now and no leaks but thanks for the tips. FLY NAVY!!!

    • @doja1307
      @doja1307 Год назад +42

      What is the mixture ratio?

    • @HowToHomeDIY
      @HowToHomeDIY  Год назад +439

      Yeah I can see that working too. I will say the reason I use the one in the video is because it does not use harsh chemicals, is biodegradable, safe for pets, and according to the company not corrosive to any metals on the condenser. So 100% safe to use and works awesome. Appreciate the Simple green input. Thank you for your service as well!

    • @AcousticAnalyst
      @AcousticAnalyst Год назад +63

      @@HowToHomeDIY There's a brand (Refrigeration Technologies) that sells coil cleaner in a concentrated gallon size and claims if there isn't a hose or water supply nearby you don't even need to rinse if diluted 20:1. A business might purchase that much but a spray can of cleaner like you used is perfect for a simple annual cleaning (don't need to store it after use, mix it when needed, or try to remember where you stored it last year). Tip about hardware was so important. In the Navy, most equipment seemed to have triple (or more) the number of mounting screws and one instructor claimed the additional hardware was necessary because new technicians would torque the hardware so tight they'd strip the threads out and the rest would have to hold the lid on. Very informative video and spot on for us DIY'ers!

    • @USNveteran
      @USNveteran Год назад +74

      @@doja1307 It says on the simple green bottle but without looking I'm going to say I think it's 50% simple green 50% water. FLY NAVY!!!

    • @sundancer3700
      @sundancer3700 Год назад +82

      Agreed Simple Green does the job and is much cheaper. I have a 2 gallon pump sprayer which I use 3oz SG with hot water, spray and let sit 10 minutes and rinse.

  • @jaammuay4323
    @jaammuay4323 Год назад +188

    Good video. One thing when putting screws back, turn counterclockwise first until you hear a click and then go clockwise to tighten them. This way threads will never strip.

    • @colesnorris
      @colesnorris Год назад +17

      100% great tip

    • @72192cody
      @72192cody Год назад +21

      Computer techs and automation engineers do this all the time! Took me 30 years to learn this simple trick! Made me feel stupid when I first heard it. 😂

    • @marct9360
      @marct9360 Год назад +10

      This is especially true when replacing self-tapping screws that have been removed from a plastic part.

    • @dennisgeroux4483
      @dennisgeroux4483 Год назад +3

      Always have done this and it works perfect for thread alignment of two items. Especially on guns and other delicate screws with fine threads.

    • @edwardblair4096
      @edwardblair4096 Год назад +6

      Works for almost anything with rigid threads. Sometimes I do it when putting lids on jars, or any time that cross-threading could be an issue.

  • @roostershooter76
    @roostershooter76 11 месяцев назад +24

    If you have animals around, and don't want them drinking the runoff water from the Fin Cleaner, you can use a spray bottle found at most hardware stores and fill with warm water with just a teaspoon of Dawn dish soap. That will do the same thing as the fin cleaner. Also, add the soap AFTER filling the spray bottle, so that it doesn't foam up on you in the bottle. You want it to foam up on the fins and not in the bottle.

  • @RichardsLegendaryGarage
    @RichardsLegendaryGarage Год назад +444

    Great video, I clean mine myself every few years. One thing I would say differently than you is that you should clean the coils out from the inside regardless of if you have one or two rows of coils. Under normal operation, air is pulled IN through the coils and the air comes OUT of the top of the unit. That means most of your dirt and debris will be on the outside of the coils. If you then spray the coils from the outside, you are just spraying that dirt and debris deeper into the coil fins. If you spray from the inside, you are getting all that junk out.

    • @rmrieee9748
      @rmrieee9748 Год назад +18

      😊 Proper thinking!!!

    • @KR-nm6wm
      @KR-nm6wm Год назад +15

      EXCELLENT!

    • @johnnybates7580
      @johnnybates7580 11 месяцев назад +9

      Word! Great tip!

    • @peterl8566
      @peterl8566 11 месяцев назад +9

      Thank you for the great tip

    • @Brandon-ky5gx
      @Brandon-ky5gx 10 месяцев назад +14

      If that was the case then the outside of the coils would never be cleaned. You can see all the dirt and mildew that came off from spraying the outside which cannot be removed from spraying inside alone. I think spraying the inside and outside are equally important. If youre concerned about pushing dirt back into the coils then spray the outside first then the inside last. Simple solution

  • @zombiediarhea
    @zombiediarhea Год назад +73

    People!!! Make sure you pay attention to the screws you take out too. On some models, some of the screws might be a little longer and if you mix them up where they go, you could potentially damage the coil.

    • @Sw-xd8qt
      @Sw-xd8qt Год назад

      Did that with a window unit...cleaned it all up ,an pssst wrong screw in the wrong whole..Dammit😎

    • @Northof25A
      @Northof25A Год назад +2

      It's amazing. People go to college, become engineers and actually design something as stupid as that

    • @jonl8445
      @jonl8445 Год назад +6

      I get a piece of cardboard and screw them in (by hand)the order/place I take them out. You can draw a rough picture of the unit with emblem to be sure of orientation. You can even label the holes with a very fine point sharpe if you want. I use a magnetic mat for metal screws on my bench, but don't use it outside. Working on computers/laptops it makes a huge difference in screw length as well.

    • @robbyers7614
      @robbyers7614 Год назад

      ​@@jonl8445 this may sound silly but really make sense

    • @LK-bz9sk
      @LK-bz9sk Год назад

      Thanks for this tip.

  • @krellman7
    @krellman7 10 месяцев назад +125

    Great video. I noticed last year my unit worked, but not as good as it once did. I went to Lowe’s and bought a couple cans of A/C Coil Cleaner. I’d did both the inside and outside. Got everything put back together. Powered up the system and I was completely shocked at how big a difference this made. This was not a subtle difference, it was a major difference. Thank you again!

    • @kenc.9067
      @kenc.9067 9 месяцев назад +1

      I need to do mine now.

    • @krellman7
      @krellman7 9 месяцев назад +1

      @@kenc.9067 Awesome. It was easy and really makes a difference. Good luck!

    • @robertsimonofsky3959
      @robertsimonofsky3959 8 месяцев назад

      Very well explained video. You answered all my question thank you

    • @pabriny
      @pabriny 8 месяцев назад

      How so? On your bill?

    • @krellman7
      @krellman7 8 месяцев назад +4

      @@pabriny No! Improvement in the respect that the unit is cycling more efficiently and the temperature as it exits the vents ins ide the house is 4 degrees colder than it was before the cleaning. I will know when I get my next electric bill if the efficiency makes a difference in cost.

  • @fflynnful
    @fflynnful 11 месяцев назад +5

    If you clean the coils and the unit doesn't start up right away, don't panic! Here is why. I cleaned my heat pump coils today, but the unit would not start up right away. I found that the reason for this is the crankcase heater needs to come up to temperature. This takes 5 or 10 minutes for my old Trane XL1400. The reason for the heater is to prevent refrigerant from migrating to the compressor and mixing with the oil there. If that happens, the oil might foam up and leave the compressor, causing eventual compressor failure when the compressor starts up. A small heater acts to prevent this problem. Thanks for the informative video.

  • @Pkilla80
    @Pkilla80 9 месяцев назад +16

    Great video. Camera work was top notch. I always appreciate someone who does a good thorough job. A+

  • @farklestaxbaum4945
    @farklestaxbaum4945 9 месяцев назад +15

    So I did this yesterday, one thing to keep in mind is the top of my AC unit came off easily enough but it was a NIGHTMARE to get it back on. Honestly 80% of the time I spent on this job was getting the sides lined up properly to fit under the top piece. This was on a 2.5ton Trane unit. Just a tip for anyone with a similar model. Also cleaning it did nothing but my coils weren't that dirty to start with.

    • @PlymouthVT
      @PlymouthVT 9 месяцев назад +1

      Yup same here its a real pain after I remove the top it just gets all unsprung then.,

  • @mikejohn0088
    @mikejohn0088 Год назад +4

    Well, another project assigned for this week but with your great instructions I can do it right the first time. Thanks pal!

  • @budgetdapperdork
    @budgetdapperdork 11 месяцев назад +46

    This was very helpful to me. I have never cleaned AC coils in my life, and this was so easy! I’m definitely going to do this every year now!

  • @ajsibley6859
    @ajsibley6859 7 месяцев назад

    WOW. This is so much more comprehensive and informative than the other videos I’ve watched/AC technicians have explained. Thank you!

  • @neutrodyne
    @neutrodyne 11 месяцев назад +9

    If you have an older unit you may want to check the fan motor and see if it has 2 oil holes with plugs in them to oil the motor. if it does I would remove those plugs and put a few drops of 20-weight non-detergent oil in them and then put the plugs back in it.

  • @douglasthompson9482
    @douglasthompson9482 Год назад +13

    This is huge on a/c units. Worth every dime to keep it clean and efficient. Thank you

  • @JoshKaminoff-cv3ke
    @JoshKaminoff-cv3ke 11 месяцев назад +1

    Wow what a difference!!! Thanks for the step by step tutorial, worked amazing!!!!

  • @lindajohns2010
    @lindajohns2010 9 месяцев назад +1

    Thank you so much! This is one of the most helpful, practical DIY videos I have ever seen!

  • @hjboots
    @hjboots Год назад +4

    Thanks for the video i was wanting to clean mine but was not sure the correct way to do so, your video made me confident in cleaning now.

  • @rolandogonzalez9134
    @rolandogonzalez9134 11 месяцев назад +3

    Best ac clean up video I've seen so far. Never knew about interior double sided coils. 👍

  • @JandT98086
    @JandT98086 11 месяцев назад +4

    Hi, I’m fairly handy but I had never thought to try this before… super easy with your great instructions! Thanks so much!

  • @bigg7g
    @bigg7g Год назад +34

    Very simple and easy to follow instructions. Thank you for posting this video as I live in south Texas and the summers are brutal. I’m gonna knock this out first thing tomorrow morning. Appreciate you bud.

    • @danodonnell7218
      @danodonnell7218 11 месяцев назад

      I was going to and then I got high 😅

  • @ptsteelers
    @ptsteelers Год назад +32

    Want to take the time to say thanks. I have cleaned my coils for the last two years, but I never thought about them inside due to possibly having two rows. Will check this year (and will clean the inside while I am there as well. Haha... something I should have done anyway). Two big thumbs up, my man!!

  • @DavidGrapesVinyard
    @DavidGrapesVinyard Год назад +3

    Iv'e been doing this same technique each season purple stuff cleaner, works great! Thanks for all the help setting up generator to house!

  • @otiswinters3674
    @otiswinters3674 10 месяцев назад +1

    Much easier job than I thought! Thanks for sharing your excellent advice and video too!

  • @LamontGlass
    @LamontGlass Год назад +2

    Thank you for a great educational Video. Nice job on the editing and the script. Very professional and easy to listen.

  • @prodigalcyclist
    @prodigalcyclist 9 месяцев назад +6

    Great video. Never knew this was something I should be doing. Amazed at how much dirt/grime was on the coils. So much quieter and more efficient now!

  • @richierich1169
    @richierich1169 11 месяцев назад +14

    I have an older unit that’s been living trouble the past couple years. This video is great. I’m going to do this. I did something similar when my unit stopped putting out cold air. We bought this house 2 years ago. When i did the coil clean there was so much dirt and muck in the coils and inside the bottom pan and the drains being totally clogged it took me hours to do. I have rods and screws in my low back. But i did so much bending over to get to the pan to scrape it and dig the 1” gunk from it that I couldn’t stand up straight for a few days.
    Just a couple weeks ago I found a good deal on a combo pack of garden nozzle sprayers asks one was the long one. I do have a pressure washer but I understand that’s not a good thing to use. But it’s been a year since i cleaned it. I figure it’s about time. Going to do it a bit differently as to not hurt myself again. Thank you for this awesome video. It gave me a better understanding of what as how to do it better.
    The comments have also helped. Except for the evaporator. I have no clue what that is or where it is.

  • @Photog455
    @Photog455 Месяц назад +1

    Nicely done video. I've never cleaned mine and it shows but will this Spring. Thanks.

  • @anz388
    @anz388 10 месяцев назад +12

    First of all this is a great video. And secondly, the comments here are so helpful, almost every comment is adding more value and insight into the subject at hand. Wow, what a community 👏👏👏

  • @sonitx
    @sonitx Год назад +31

    Having cleaned tens of thousands of coils over the past 20 years, this is an outstanding video. I would add.......while the top is open, try to split the coils apart a bit and use your hose to rinse straight down between the coils. That will clean the face area of the inside coil. If there is cottonwood seed or any other vegetation that has made it between the coil, use a thin round brush on a wire to pull it out from the top before putting any water to it.

    • @HowToHomeDIY
      @HowToHomeDIY  Год назад +7

      I really appreciate the feedback and added input from all of your experience! Thank you!

    • @Encore-Entertainment
      @Encore-Entertainment Год назад +1

      On Average what do service professionals like yourself who have cleaned tens of thousands of coils over the years typically charge homeowners for this service? Wondering what it will cost me to hire someone to do this for me versus doing it myself. What is a fair price to pay for a coil cleaning service not that I don’t like getting my hands dirty but I’m a pretty busy guy I’m not sure it would be the best use of my time. I appreciate any and all feedback from anyone including yourself.

    • @tonyshelton3744
      @tonyshelton3744 Год назад +1

      @@Encore-Entertainment We only did commercial work. I am retired. Don’t know how much it runs today.

    • @jeanm2202
      @jeanm2202 11 месяцев назад +1

      @@Encore-Entertainment $125.

  • @sven_ftw
    @sven_ftw 9 месяцев назад +3

    This was a really helpful video, thank you! I was going to call someone to do this, but now I feel totally comfortable doing it myself.

  • @djcharlesryan
    @djcharlesryan Год назад +54

    As an hvac installer and service tech the evaporator coil which is your air handler inside is incredibly important if that is dirty or you don’t change your filters it could cause it to freeze up and or cause your system to not move the heat in your house as efficiently

  • @thomassloat7936
    @thomassloat7936 10 месяцев назад +8

    Thanks, Dude! I just spent $9 on a can of A/C cleaner and did what a professional wanted to charge me $165 to do. Your video just saved me $156!

  • @sherylclements2846
    @sherylclements2846 Год назад +14

    Thank you!! I found another video and cleaned the outside coils with some spray cleaner. HOWEVER, had no idea there were possible 2nd set on the inside. I will be re-cleaning it in the next week as soon as I get 2 cans of your recommended cleaner. This will help so much!! I'm sharing this video with all friends. It's 100 degrees today, first of the year, and going to get really hot here in AZ soon. God bless you!!

  • @robofurious
    @robofurious Год назад +6

    thanks for posting! I clean mine annually, but was always scared of cleaning the inside. Now I will do both!

  • @MattGoodfellow
    @MattGoodfellow 9 месяцев назад

    Huge thanks! Just finished, took almost a blanket off with vac first, then cleaned coils, running VERY well now!

  • @LennyinFlorida
    @LennyinFlorida 11 месяцев назад +1

    Thank you. This gives me the confidence to do that. I've only just sprayed the outside of it with a hose, but that looks relatively easy...

  • @DGTubbs
    @DGTubbs 11 месяцев назад +5

    By far some of the most useful tips and videos I have watched. Please keep this stuff coming!

    • @HowToHomeDIY
      @HowToHomeDIY  11 месяцев назад

      Absolutely Will! Really glad to hear you liked it. Thanks a lot for the feedback!

  • @mikeglasgow9618
    @mikeglasgow9618 Год назад +46

    It does matter how you spray your foaming cleaners . ... You should always spray from the bottom up. The reason being is that if you start at the top, some the foaming action which is already taking place will block the cleaner from penetrating the coil. If you start from the bottom. You always have uninterrupted surface for the cleaners. JMO...
    RETIRED HVAC/R TECH WITH 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE HERE.

    • @bjbhehir
      @bjbhehir Год назад

      Just curious how much do HVAC charge to do this?

    • @mikeglasgow9618
      @mikeglasgow9618 Год назад +3

      @@bjbhehir
      I'm retired now. Have been for a few years. I didn't work Residencial for many years
      But. When I did. It was around 75...100 dollars plus 59 dollars for the service call. Many companies have thing called service plans where the come to your home 2 times a year. In the fall for a furnace check and in the spring for an a/ C check. These plans are usually about 200,,,,,, to 250 a year.

  • @marksin515
    @marksin515 9 месяцев назад +1

    Excellent video, full of common sense. I'll be upping my coil cleaning, as I never knew there were cleaning solvents for this point. Or that you should take the top cover off. I always pay attention when I see your videos pop up, as your advice is like having a super handyman in the family, one I can trust to know the stuff I need to know. Thank you for taking time to make these videos!

  • @sonicboompole2774
    @sonicboompole2774 10 месяцев назад +28

    Summer is here again. After installing central AC 7 years ago the external unit had never been cleaned. Thanks to this video I was confident enough to follow the directions and clean my AC. Today I'll follow up with the shop vac and the drainage line from the inside unit and hopefully be in good shape for the rest of the AC season. Thank you for your great video and expertise!

  • @maitai4476
    @maitai4476 8 месяцев назад +4

    Thanks for this video! I’m new to owning A/C so had no idea this was necessary. Just followed your simple steps and everything is working fine.

  • @jasonfoster9118
    @jasonfoster9118 Год назад +17

    I'm an A/C guy and I just grab the hose and wash at a 45 degree angle from the outside a couple times a year. All the books say wash from the inside but, in actual practice, it doesn't work because the velocity of the water through the coil isn't enough to wash out the dirt. I don't use coil cleaner. If you can see through it with a flashlight when you're done, it's good to go. Putting those covers back on the side can be a real pain.

    • @jbouchard667
      @jbouchard667 11 месяцев назад +1

      Yea I do it the same way. Especially when u have like 4 or 5 maintenances lined up for the day.

    • @WeWereYoungandCrazy
      @WeWereYoungandCrazy 11 месяцев назад +3

      if the velocity of the water isn't enough to wash from the inside out, then it won't be enough to wash from the outside in. If the water pressure isn't enough to push water through the coils they really must be needing a serious cleaning. You aren't the first HVAC tech to do a half a$$ job and leave. "Every contractor is an incompetent thief" Ron Swanson

    • @WeWereYoungandCrazy
      @WeWereYoungandCrazy 11 месяцев назад

      @@jbouchard667 ..so if business is slow you take the time to do it right?

    • @jbouchard667
      @jbouchard667 11 месяцев назад

      @WeWereYoungandCrazy not necessarily. If the coils are plugged then sure do it from inside out. But if it has a dusting on it then it's not going to make a difference. There's alot of things that are suggested from different manufacturers but in all honesty they are just not practical in the real world.

    • @jbouchard667
      @jbouchard667 11 месяцев назад

      @@WeWereYoungandCrazy are you an hvac technician? Do you hook up your gauges and do testing to see it makes a difference?

  • @brucecann1591
    @brucecann1591 Год назад +2

    Great video. Cleaned mine this last weekend. Thanks

  • @hootinouts
    @hootinouts 11 месяцев назад +1

    Thank you for sharing my friend. I wasn't searching for this but it is a reminder for me to get out there and clean mine. It's been years now and I want to make sure I get this done before we get into the thick of the hot soupy summer here in New Jersey.

  • @77devera
    @77devera Год назад +17

    Very informative and straight to the point video! I can't wait to do this to my rental properties and primary home!

    • @HowToHomeDIY
      @HowToHomeDIY  Год назад +1

      It makes a huge difference! Thanks a lot for the feedback. I really appreciate it!

  • @scottjohnson5449
    @scottjohnson5449 Год назад +9

    1 thing you forgot to show, like i do on mine is to spray between the unit and the cement slab you would be surprised what comes out from underneath. that will also help keep the drain holes open.

  • @johnlincoln7598
    @johnlincoln7598 9 месяцев назад

    Being a caretaker on 3 ranches I'm always on the lookout for ways to do my job better. Just watched this video and one on wire nuts and its been a good learning Sunday. Thanks!

  • @NikolaNovakovic
    @NikolaNovakovic 10 месяцев назад

    Great tutorial, thanks. Just cleaned mine following this tutorial.

  • @lagrock
    @lagrock Год назад +4

    Great video. Clear instructions either reasons why / why not. You're a pretty good teacher!

    • @HowToHomeDIY
      @HowToHomeDIY  Год назад

      Really glad to hear you liked it. Thanks a lot for the kind words!

  • @dekdawg21
    @dekdawg21 Год назад +6

    This is awesome, just got central air last summer and this is good to know how to do.

    • @HowToHomeDIY
      @HowToHomeDIY  Год назад +2

      Oh awesome! Really glad you liked it and the timing seems good. Thanks a lot for the feedback Glenn!

  • @MarioGonzalez-zo8lc
    @MarioGonzalez-zo8lc 10 месяцев назад

    Thank you! Very helpful
    My AC unit really needed a good cleaning!

  • @pritikinaa
    @pritikinaa 11 месяцев назад +1

    Awesome! Thanks for this. It's much easier than I thought it would be.

  • @daves8510
    @daves8510 Год назад +70

    I do this every year just before the cooling season begins. I used to use the canned foaming spray like you but moved up to a professional HVAC coil cleaner sold in a gallon bottle. I simply put it in a yard sprayer and pressurize it with the pump. But most importantly, I also take the time to clean the evaporator inside the furnace. That makes a HUGE difference! I did a before & after with a digital oven thermometer and the air temp at the vents went from 59 to 53 degrees. Wow! Worked so well I removed the grill from my car and did those coils to. Air temp in the car, 37!

    • @Hclann1
      @Hclann1 Год назад

      Link to the cleaner you use please.

    • @thinking6307
      @thinking6307 Год назад +4

      Right, Dave. Cleaning the inside evporator coil is just as important...even though it requires a good deal more prep and cleanup. And don't forget some clorox in the condensate drain line periodically.

    • @richierich1169
      @richierich1169 11 месяцев назад

      I have an older unit that’s been giving me trouble the past couple years. Had someone come out and said it sounded like the compressor going out. But yet got it going and it’s still going. Can you give me more insight on the evaporator? I have no clue what that is or where exactly it is. Thank you.

    • @pjackson8322
      @pjackson8322 11 месяцев назад +1

      Depending on which color cleaner you use, dilute the purple cleaner to at least 50/50 if not more. And rinse twice after washing off the coil. Purple cleaner is great but very strong by itself and WILL cause leaks if not rinsed 100%.

    • @TheAvada32002
      @TheAvada32002 11 месяцев назад +1

      What the best way to clean the ones in the furnace? I looked and mine are really dirty? Do I have to take it out and bring outside and do the same thing like the outside?

  • @chrisbrodbeck1961
    @chrisbrodbeck1961 11 месяцев назад +9

    100% fantastic advice, I usually check mine seasonally... Absolutely has to be done, and once it's done you're unit will last for years and years...

  • @Incomudro1963
    @Incomudro1963 Год назад +1

    Excellent, easy to follow video!
    I'm going to do this.

  • @shanew.williams
    @shanew.williams Год назад

    Thanks for teaching how to do this. I live in a pine forest & after 17 yrs, i can see the buildup of pine needles rising inside, as seen when looking down from above.

  • @markortiz1506
    @markortiz1506 Год назад +2

    Thanks very much! Clear and to the point!

  • @tesladura3085
    @tesladura3085 Год назад +120

    Excellent tutorial. I just did something very similar to my own condenser unit this past summer. Made a huge difference. And it's not tough to do at all! Excellent habit to practice at least every two or three years, or more often in dustier environments. Well done!

    • @irisbaez1972
      @irisbaez1972 9 месяцев назад +3

      @@repentandbelieveinJesusChrist1 WHAT THE HELL HAS TO DO JESUS WITH THIS MATTER? I WILL TELL YOU SOME THING: JESUS DOESN'T LOVE PRIDE PEOPLE.

    • @ThatsWSSaid
      @ThatsWSSaid 9 месяцев назад

      What is the average temperature in the summer for you? I am considering giving this a shot. Im in texas, we are consistently triple digits. Did you notice a difference pretty quickly?

    • @tesladura3085
      @tesladura3085 9 месяцев назад +1

      @@ThatsWSSaid If you're asking me, I live in SoCal and we get triple digits, but not as often as you would. But yes, I noticed an improvement in cooling. I also ditched the more restrictive intake filters for the lightweight Flander's easy flos, which I swap out monthly.

    • @karenrogers3649
      @karenrogers3649 9 месяцев назад +1

      Great information thanks so very much. Very useful.

    • @chamber5124
      @chamber5124 9 месяцев назад +3

      ​@@repentandbelieveinJesusChrist1That's not going to help your ac unit. However, listening and watching this video just might.

  • @youdontknowme2915
    @youdontknowme2915 10 месяцев назад +1

    This video gave me the confidence to clean my 2 units…
    It was very helpful and I am glad to hopefully lower my electric bill, even if only so slightly!!!!
    Thanks tons!!!

  • @paulallen3777
    @paulallen3777 Год назад

    Thank you for the information. It is something I would never have thought about doing.

  • @guybrock837
    @guybrock837 11 месяцев назад +3

    At certain times during the year, I get alot of cottonwood seeds in the coil, that have to be washed down at an angle from the top downwards to the bottom. It does make alot of difference on how well the unit runs.I have never taken the top off to check for a 2nd set of coils, but I will now.

  • @ldoyle3rd
    @ldoyle3rd Год назад +23

    I did this a couple of years ago and the A/C went from not keeping up in extreme heat to no problem. Could not believe it, will be doing it again this year.

  • @Potatodude223
    @Potatodude223 Год назад

    I'm so glad I subscribed to you. you're the first video i found that spoke into this subject.

  • @reyreyquaza10
    @reyreyquaza10 9 дней назад

    Very thorough video. Thank you!

  • @my2cents930
    @my2cents930 9 месяцев назад +8

    I was skeptical at first but found that to be a really a good tutorial. Granted, I have 30 years of experience in the appliance and a/c field. The only things I would change is (1), include a breaker disconnect that you flip off as well as the pull out disconnect, (2) use concentrate foaming coil cleaner that comes in a gallon jug. Dilute that down with water into a small pump-up sprayer or even a hand-held spray bottle and you don't have to worry about it coming back into your face. Even as clean as your unit was, you would not believe how much will foam out with the proper cleaner. Overall, I have to give you at least a 95 score if I was actually grading a test on it.

    • @teresak9543
      @teresak9543 8 месяцев назад

      What is the brand name of the cleaner you mentioned, please?

  • @williamkacensky4796
    @williamkacensky4796 Год назад +4

    Great advice and demo. This needs to be done yearly in a dusty location like Nevada.

    • @HowToHomeDIY
      @HowToHomeDIY  Год назад +1

      It absolutely does. And really yearly should be the goal no matter where you are. Appreciate the feedback William!

    • @williamkacensky4796
      @williamkacensky4796 Год назад

      @How To Home
      You didn't mention the name of the coil cleaner, so I did a screenshot and noticed Web for the name brand. I picked up a can at Lowe's here in Las Vegas. $7.95.
      Will clean mine tomorrow.
      Thanks for the reply back. I appreciate your videos.

  • @richardflick8021
    @richardflick8021 Месяц назад

    Thank you for your continued information and easy to understand procedure!

  • @JG-ld5pe
    @JG-ld5pe Год назад +10

    On a single row , i would agree but on a double row your pushing the dirt from the inner coil back of the outer and visa versa. They need to be spilt and washed between the two.Its a delicate operation however. Doesnt matter how shiny the tubes are, they are designed for air to flow thru and take away the heat. Condensor cleaner is designed to be sprayed between the fins and then foam to push the debris back out of the fins. If it foams before its a waste.

  • @georgewyatt2924
    @georgewyatt2924 11 месяцев назад +11

    Great video. Thank you. I cleaned my AC unit today after 6 years and there wasn't a lot of dirt, but it was time to clean. I suggest wrapping the wire screen with rope or a bungy cord. It makes replacing the lid much easier.

  • @elsdonj
    @elsdonj Год назад +2

    Thank you so much for this! Just the kind of information I needed!

  • @johnciallelli8562
    @johnciallelli8562 11 месяцев назад +1

    Great video! My AC unit is only 2 years old and I will be cleaning my system this week.

  • @CactusPete69
    @CactusPete69 Год назад +4

    Our AC Guy told me the typical age for an AC unit is 12 to 14 years before it quits. Mine lasted me 24 years. I give credit to this by cleaning mine out every year. At the price of what it cost the homeowner to replace a unit, it definitely pays to keep the unit clean. It's a quick and easy way to save repair costs.

    • @GeoffreyB203
      @GeoffreyB203 Год назад

      Nah, you were just lucky.

    • @CactusPete69
      @CactusPete69 Год назад +1

      @@GeoffreyB203 I’ll take my preventative maintenance over luck any day of the week.

    • @GeoffreyB203
      @GeoffreyB203 Год назад

      @Lynn Harris good for you

    • @denonpmb
      @denonpmb 9 месяцев назад +2

      ​@@GeoffreyB203kind of an ignorant comment, since reducing work load on any mechanical device should definitely prolong its life.

    • @GeoffreyB203
      @GeoffreyB203 9 месяцев назад

      @denonpmb Key word " should." My comment was not ignorant, and here's why. A preventive maintenance contract or a service contract allows you the privilege of having a guy in case of emergencies. See, you're thinking his system lasted 24 years with all the original parts. No, I guarantee his equipment broke down plenty of times, but his guy was there to save the day. See if I charged you monthly or yearly and called it a service technician retainer fee people wouldn't buy it. So, a smart businessman will call it a preventive maintenance contract and send a tech out a few times a year to put on a show. Because people believe in reducing workload on equipment ,okay change your filter and call your guy when it breaks.

  • @steveowlhollamac8065
    @steveowlhollamac8065 Год назад +6

    I needed this VIDEO...THANKS 💘

    • @HowToHomeDIY
      @HowToHomeDIY  Год назад +1

      You are very welcome! Really glad to hear it sounds like it was good timing for you. Thanks a lot for the feedback Steve!

  • @itsjustjoe3790
    @itsjustjoe3790 11 месяцев назад +1

    Thank you! This looks easy and manageable

  • @BreezyByTheSea63
    @BreezyByTheSea63 9 месяцев назад

    Thank you for this DIY! Definitely going to clean my air unit and my daughters.

  • @michaelg.294
    @michaelg.294 Год назад +285

    Here are 2 additional pro tips;
    If you pre-rinse the coil before applying the cleaner it not only removes any large particulates like cottonwood, it also allows the cleaner to penetrate the coils deeper.
    And it is highly recommended to not use a coil cleaner on micro channel units which (according to manufacturer's service manuals) has the potential to cause leaks and may void any warranty claims.

    • @f5fstop
      @f5fstop Год назад +6

      Hope people know the difference between the two. Just water for the micronchannel.

    • @keldon_champion
      @keldon_champion Год назад +3

      there is microchannel safe cleaners as well I use them all the time on refrigeration units, but even then you really only should use it if the coil is really bad

    • @facecrook3454
      @facecrook3454 Год назад +32

      @@f5fstop could you explain the difference?

    • @trvman1
      @trvman1 Год назад

      I wonder if oven cleaner would damage the coils?

    • @keldon_champion
      @keldon_champion Год назад +29

      @@facecrook3454 micro channel coils are made of very thin aluminum channels with fins between them, fin and tube are a copper tube with fins attached to the tube the easiest way to tell if you are unsure what your coil is, look at the ends of the coil for u shaped copper bends that's a fun and tube coil, if it looks more like a car radiator that's likely a micro channel. It's actually pretty easy to tell at a glance once you have seen them if you Google the 2 different types you can find pictures that will make it easier to spot the difference.

  • @bgroovin1343
    @bgroovin1343 11 месяцев назад +12

    I had a musty smell this year so I started doing some searching and found your channel. Cleaned my unit and found the evap was partially covered in mold. All clean now and no smell or other associated issues. Going to do the soft start and capacitor as well. This unit was last "serviced" two years ago. Subscribed!

  • @cockasorrus7475
    @cockasorrus7475 4 дня назад

    Great information and job done!
    I’m glad someone else is not so lazy to use the power driven tools 😖

  • @michelleblackwood7720
    @michelleblackwood7720 Год назад +1

    Thank you this is the best video ive found esp showing the drainage holes. Bet Ive found the cause of my problems.

  • @kansasfan649
    @kansasfan649 10 месяцев назад +12

    Thank you! The hardest part was securing the top fan housing to keep it stable and avoid damage to the fan blades. I also like trimming away any bushes or branches that would prevent air flow to the condenser (clearance of 24 inches is sometimes called for). I also raked away debris/woodchips, to prevent rainfall from sending wood chips back into the unit. One can was not enough imo. This video provided the know-how and confidence to get the job done, very well done!

    • @EJBert
      @EJBert 9 месяцев назад

      Yep same issue here and I have a rather tall unit making the balancing act even more precarious!

  • @TxHiTech
    @TxHiTech 11 месяцев назад +5

    I clean my coils every spring but never knew there was a cleaning spray. Thank you for this!

    • @gueroburban4989
      @gueroburban4989 10 месяцев назад

      Do I have to use a cleaner or just can rinse it out? Do you know if this is the reason my ac blows kinda warm? I have never cleaned it

  • @markfreedman2470
    @markfreedman2470 Год назад +1

    Excellent and concise video. Thanks

  • @crazytimes9989
    @crazytimes9989 11 месяцев назад

    Thank you for showing us how to do this. I'm going to do mine.

  • @nicktognella3085
    @nicktognella3085 Год назад +3

    Good video. Also recommend replacement of any rusted screws while you do your maintenance.

  • @kathleendavis2008
    @kathleendavis2008 Год назад +7

    I love your videos. My first husband use to take care of stuff like this. My second husband isn't able to. Glad to have someone like u around with ur clear instructions to help this lady out!!!💖

    • @guymann4016
      @guymann4016 Год назад +13

      Maybe give a third husband a go..

    • @t3chm8
      @t3chm8 Год назад

      @@guymann4016 🤣

  • @TonyPearl
    @TonyPearl 8 месяцев назад +1

    Excellent job on this video. Thorough explanation & demonstration. I'll be doing this later this week, after my cleaner arrives from Amazon! :)

  • @frankdavis7183
    @frankdavis7183 9 месяцев назад

    I love how you expain everything thank you for great help always....

  • @trevorgwelch7412
    @trevorgwelch7412 Год назад +5

    I replaced the capacitor and now it's working perfectly . Runs like a train , Trane 😊

  • @daweb812
    @daweb812 11 месяцев назад +6

    Great Information! I generally clean the coils on my units every spring. Never thought about removing the top and definitely will do now. I do pull the fan and lube the motor yearly with a drips of machine oil.

    • @HowToHomeDIY
      @HowToHomeDIY  11 месяцев назад +1

      Really glad to hear you liked it and are staying on top of that maintenance. Thanks a lot for the feedback Dave!

  • @danielkinney6325
    @danielkinney6325 9 месяцев назад

    Thanks for making this video. Awesome job.

  • @spursmvp
    @spursmvp 8 месяцев назад

    Going to do this tomorrow. Thanks 👍👍👍

  • @mikeiver
    @mikeiver Год назад +8

    I clean ours 2-3 times per season. We have cottonwoods here and they can cover the coils fast at the peak of the season. Due to the construction of our unit, a weatherking, the coils are behind luvors and are harder to clean. I use high energy magnets to hold door screen over them and keep the coils clean and free od debris. This is the second season with the new unit so it is spotless still.

    • @RyanM-ke2gu
      @RyanM-ke2gu 11 месяцев назад +1

      Great idea w the screen! Cottonwoods here also and they really make a mess. Thanks!

  • @shannonhill3356
    @shannonhill3356 Год назад +11

    HVAC tech here.
    1) your disconnect CAN be bypassed, whether it’s a pull or a breaker, from behind the panel. You may pull or flip the disconnect breaker and still have live 240v - ALWAYS meter to ensure no live current.
    2) do not use cleaners, PLEASE. A lot of coils these days are coated specifically with things that cleaners can cause blockages or even leaks (though this generally applies to indoor coil). If you must, choose a cleaner that is NON-CORROSIVE in nature (it will be clearly labeled as such). If it’s bad enough to need anything more, call a professional.
    3) really recommend not leaning the top directly on the coil, but, hey…is what it is.
    4) professional maintenance is like 150-250 per year, and that’s usually including benefits as well as two maintenances per year (at least in southern US). Get it instead.
    Non of what was stated here was wrong, it’s all mostly good information, just be careful and if you’re unsure about something just call a tech and save yourself money and a tech a headache.

    • @dustinboucher2513boucher
      @dustinboucher2513boucher 11 месяцев назад

      Hey can I ask you a question my girlfriends parents ac unit is good going or has gone out it was making super loud noises whille running it was loud enough to kinda scare my girlfriend her dad is paraplegic and it's on the side of house with a la m that is no grass but all rocks we are in new Mexico so I don't know what kind of if any seasonal maintenance it gets do you have any ideas what this could be

    • @shannonhill3356
      @shannonhill3356 11 месяцев назад

      @@dustinboucher2513boucher I mean unfortunately that’s just not enough maintenance but you could do a few things to help narrow it down for a tech on the phone call - is there air coming out of the vents? Is the outdoor (condenser) fan running? This one is a little tougher, but can you hear the compressor running? Is there ice forming anywhere in or around the condenser, or the copper going into the furnace/air handler (indoor part) after it’s been running for a few minutes? It sounds like a fan (bearing or stuck rotor, possible blade damage) or compressor (pumping down, overheating, internal parts grinding, etc) issue to me, but you’ll definitely need a tech out to diagnose unfortunately.
      However, knowing 1 or all of those things above may be able to help them give you an answer over the phone, or just more quickly upon arrival.
      Good luck, wish I lived near you I’d come check it out 🤙🏼

    • @dustinboucher2513boucher
      @dustinboucher2513boucher 11 месяцев назад +1

      @@shannonhill3356 I was just over there it's on and it's cooling the house but it's making noise that doesn't quit sound right but not as bad as I was led to believe by my girlfriend her told told her that he was quoted as it gonna cost upwards of 9,000 dollars to repair and that seems ridiculous to me those units don't even cost that much to get a new one

    • @shannonhill3356
      @shannonhill3356 11 месяцев назад

      @@dustinboucher2513boucher yeah here in FL for a decent 3.5-4t unit is like 7-10k on the low to mid-tier, brand depending. Good luck.

    • @ReseRain-xq9uo
      @ReseRain-xq9uo 8 месяцев назад

      @@dustinboucher2513boucher oil fan motor shaft/bearings and straighten any bent blades. Ours was screeching overnight suddenly and found calcium deposits had built up from sprinklers on one blade. Just enough of a bend on a blade to misalign blades and cause wear.

  • @mlm7536
    @mlm7536 8 месяцев назад

    great time to change out capacitor great job

  • @shortsalegroupinc
    @shortsalegroupinc 7 месяцев назад

    Nice!!! I am doing this!! In Florida the AC RUNS 24/7