Air conditioners use condenser and evaporator coils, which transport refrigerant throughout the machine. These coils remove the heat from the air and replace it with cold air, which is what cools down a room. If these coils become dusty or greasy, they will not function as well, and your air conditioner will not be very efficient. In addition, the less-efficient air conditioner will be more expensive to operate because it will use more energy trying to cool a room or house.
Most air conditioner coils can be accessed by opening the air conditioner, either from the front or the back depending on the model. This only requires a screwdriver to unscrew any plates covering the coils. The easiest and cheapest way to clean air conditioner coils using a household remedy is with a vacuum cleaner; simply suck any dirt or hair out of the air conditioner’s interior and off the coils.
Sometimes air conditioner coils may become greasy or be soiled with buildup difficult to remove when only using a vacuum cleaner. Most all-purpose cleaners you have in your home will work on the air conditioner coils and not damage them, but an application of one part vinegar to three parts water will also help dislodge any buildup.
When using a vacuum to clean your air conditioner coils, use the brush attachment to brush off any excess hair or dust on other parts of the air conditioner, including the grille and filter, to prevent it from returning to the coils. Thoroughly dry the coils with a cloth after spraying any liquid on them and before starting the appliance again.