How Do Professional Air Conditioner Cleaning Services Work?

Tired of weak airflow, strange smells, or sky-high utility bills? A dirty air conditioner could be to blame. While you may be wondering how to clean your air conditioner, a professional cleaning appointment ensures your system runs efficiently and safely.

Let’s explore how HVAC professionals clean your air conditioner and the signs that it’s time to schedule service.

Steps a Professional Follows When Cleaning a Central Air Conditioner

Hiring a professional for air conditioner cleaning means getting a thorough, methodical process that goes far beyond just swapping filters. Certified technicians understand how to clean the inside of an air conditioner by following a series of steps that address all aspects of the unit. This process helps extend the system's life while improving indoor air quality.

Below is a step-by-step look at what happens during a typical central air conditioning cleaning service.

Turn Off Unit

The first step in any professional AC cleaning service is completely powering down the system. Technicians will shut off the thermostat and disconnect power at the breaker box or service switch near the outdoor condenser. This ensures safety and prevents damage to electrical components during the cleaning process.

Disassemble the Vent Cover

With the unit safely off, the technician removes the vent cover from the indoor unit or air handler. These covers can collect the dust, pet hair, and debris that contribute to airflow problems and reduced air quality. Professionals clean these parts thoroughly using a brush or vacuum and inspect for signs of damage or mold.

Remove and Clean the Air Filter

Next, a professional will remove the system’s air filter—usually located inside the return vent or the air handler. Dirty or clogged filters restrict airflow, strain the system, and hinder indoor air quality. Depending on the filter type, the technician may vacuum and rinse it or recommend a replacement.

Many technicians also advise setting a regular air filter replacement schedule based on the filter’s MERV rating and your household’s air quality needs.

Clear the Drain Line

The condensate drain line can become clogged with algae, mold, or debris, especially in humid environments. A blocked drain line can lead to water leaks and even mold growth. Technicians will flush the line using a vacuum or special cleaning solution to ensure that moisture drains properly away from the system.

This step is essential for preventing water damage and maintaining optimal AC performance.

Deactivate Outdoor Unit

For central air conditioning systems, cleaning the outdoor condenser unit is just as important as servicing the indoor components. A technician will first turn off the power to the condenser at the disconnect box. This prevents any risk of electrical shock while working on the unit.

Cutting power also protects the system’s fan motor and compressor during cleaning.

Remove the Top of the Condenser Unit

Once the unit is de-energized, the technician removes the top grille or fan assembly from the condenser. This provides full access to the interior, including the fan blades, condenser coils, and base of the unit.

The fan and surrounding housing often collect leaves, dirt, pollen, and even small animal debris over time. Cleaning this out restores airflow and improves efficiency.

Read More: Top Signs of Dirty Coils in Your Air Conditioning System

Spray the System

With the fan removed, the next step a technician will follow when cleaning an air conditioner is sanitizing the interior of the condenser using a coil cleaner and gentle water spray. The aluminum fins and copper tubing inside the condenser are delicate and require careful handling.

A professional avoids high-pressure sprays that could damage the fins. Instead, they use soft-bristle brushes or a fine comb if the metal has become bent or clogged.

Inside, the evaporator coil may also be treated with a no-rinse coil cleaner, especially if mold or mildew buildup is present.

Give Time to Dry

After the system is cleaned, all components must dry completely before the unit is reassembled and powered back on. Trapped moisture inside a reassembled AC unit could lead to short circuits or mold growth.

Professionals may use compressed air or allow the system to air-dry, depending on environmental conditions and the level of moisture involved.

Top Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs to Be Cleaned

Regular cleaning is the key to keeping your air conditioner running smoothly. We’ve covered pressing questions like how to clean the inside of an air conditioner with professional assistance—but how do you know when it’s time to schedule a professional service?

Here are the most common signs your AC system is overdue for a deep clean.

Lack of Cool Air

If your AC is running but the air coming out of the vents feels lukewarm or weak, clogged filters or dirty coils could be the problem. Reduced cooling power often signals that airflow is being restricted somewhere in the system.

A professional air conditioner cleaning can restore full airflow, helping your system cool your home faster and more efficiently.

Strange Operational Noises and Smells

Rattling, buzzing, or musty smells from your vents could indicate debris buildup inside the system. Mold growth in the condensate line or evaporator coil is another common culprit.

If your AC smells “off” or makes noise during operation, a technician can clean the source and prevent further damage.

Read More: Do Your Air Ducts Need to Be Cleaned?

Dirt and High Energy Bills

Have your utility bills spiked unexpectedly this season? A dirty air conditioner may be to blame. When coils, filters, and drain lines are clogged, your system has to work harder and use more energy to cool your home.

Even a thin layer of dirt on the evaporator coil can reduce efficiency by up to 30%. Regular cleanings help reduce energy waste and lower your monthly cooling costs.

You might also notice visible dust around vents or on the return grille. These signs mean your AC system isn’t filtering air properly and could be circulating dirt back into your home.

Professional Air Conditioning Tune-Up and Cleaning Services

When it comes to home comfort, few things are as important as a properly maintained air conditioner—especially during the hot summer. If your HVAC system is malfunctioning, our team members are available to help you. Our technicians offer trustworthy air conditioning repair services in Greenville, South Carolina and the surrounding areas.

At Corley, our HVAC experts provide trusted, top-rated air conditioning tune-up and cleaning services for homeowners across the Upstate, so you don’t have to sacrifice your valuable time and peace of mind.

Our thorough inspection and cleaning process includes everything from air filter checks to coil cleaning and drain line flushing. We tailor our services to your system's make and model, ensuring that nothing gets overlooked.

Whether you're dealing with airflow issues, loud operation, or rising energy bills, our skilled technicians can help. If your unit shows signs of wear beyond repair, Corley also offers air conditioning replacement services to restore your comfort quickly. Give our staff a call at (864) 256-0643 to receive assistance with a defective air conditioning system.