Whether you have a window unit, a split unit, or a dedicated exterior condenser unit, your air conditioning system is a critical component to the comfort level in your home. However, like most components of a home, your air conditioner requires some occasional attention to ensure that it’s operating at peak efficiency. What are some things you can do to clean or maintain your home’s air conditioner?

First, before you do anything, make sure to disconnect the air conditioner from its’ power source. It may even be a good idea to turn off the circuit that supplies power to it. Once that’s done, you could clean it from the outside in. Vacuum or brush off any dust or debris on the outside casing, and then remove it and set it to the side. Once you’re inside, vacuum or brush off dirt or debris in there, clean or replace filters, and check for damage on condenser coils and fins. If you notice something looks out of place, or you run into trouble re-assembling it, be sure to consult a professional.