1. Clean coil, condensation pan & lines

• Pull off front cover of AC coil, slightly lift up high enough that the underside of the coil can be inspected with a camera or mirror.

• If needed use a bristle attachment on a vacuum or a commercial foam cleaner and clean any buildup off the under side of the coil.

• Inspect and clean the condensate pan and drain lines as needed to ensure the condensation can flow freely.

2. Clean & straighten condenser coil

• Check the condenser for build-up on the exterior side.

• If there is build up, remove the outer casing if needed, gently rinse off what you can with a low-pressure pump sprayer that has an AC Coil cleaning agent in it, or a hose after applying a foaming cleaning agent.

• Do not apply high water pressure as this will cause some build-up to be pushed further into the fins of the condenser or could bend the over. Straighten any bent fins with a fin comb.

3. Insulate Line-Set

• Replace any insulation that is damaged, incomplete, or does not meet the following standard: 

• Insulate all suction lines to a minimum of R-4 with an insulation that is a class II or better vapor retarder.

• Insulate all high pressure lines that pass through spaces where condensation may occur to a minimum of R-4 with an insulation that is a class II or better vapor retarder.

• Seal all seams, joints, etc. of insulation using compatible material (e.g., tape).

• Install UV-resistant insulation on exterior lines to protect insulation from UV degradation.

4. Adjust fan speed

• Verify fan speed setting are to manufacturer specification.

• Verify static pressure is within manufacturer specifications.

• Verify the 𝚫-T is between 17-20⁰.

5. Charge System

• To determine if the AC system needs to be charged after completing steps 1-4 above, conduct the following:

• Test if the duct static pressure and the amperage of the condenser fan are all within the manufacturer's specifications. 

• If the duct static pressure or condenser fan amperage are not within specs, do not proceed with charging the system. Instead, report to the agency that the clean and tune efforts did not resolve the issue and that a repair may be required.

• If the condenser fan amperage and duct static pressures are within manufacturers specs but the  𝚫-T or compressor amperage are not within manufacturer specifications, this indicates the system needs to be charged.

• If the system needs to be charged follow the directions given on step #10 of AC Replacement. 

• Do not connect your gauges if the system does not need to be charged. Connecting them unnecessarily can lead to a loss of refrigerant or introduce unwanted air and contaminants into the system. 

6. Document

• Complete the HVAC Clean & Tune form.

EPA-608 Card required:

Only EPA-608 Universal or Type II Certified individuals are allowed to perform this measure.

Follow manufacturer specs

All equipment must be charged to manufacturer specifications.