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Leaves that get stuck in your air conditioner’s outdoor condenser unit can cause a host of problems. For instance, since the buildup of debris restricts airflow around the outdoor unit, leaves stuck in the condenser unit can force your air conditioner to consume more electricity. There’s also the issue of leaves and debris containing moisture potentially causing sensitive AC components to rust, including the compressor, which is arguably the most expensive component to replace.

In order to avoid costly AC repairs, it’s important to keep your air conditioner’s condenser unit clear of any debris, especially in the fall. Home Air Services, your trusted HVAC company, shares some tips below:

Remove debris stuck in your outdoor AC unit’s fins.  The walls of your air conditioner’s condenser unit have thin, angled fins that prevent leaves and debris from entering. Removing leaves and debris stuck in your AC’s fins should be relatively easy. However, if one of the fins gets bent out of shape, don’t attempt to straighten it yourself. In general, it’s best to let  HVAC installation contractors  handle delicate tasks such as these.

Keep in mind that it’s possible that pine needles and other loose debris managed to slip past the fins and make their way into the condenser unit. That’s why it’s highly recommended that you have your outdoor AC unit cleaned and inspected at the end of summer. As a general rule, you should have your air conditioner inspected at least once a year.

Make sure there’s enough clearance around the condenser unit.  Remove any leaves, shrubbery or debris that are within two feet of the condenser unit to ensure there’s adequate airflow around it. Trimming overgrown foliage in the spring also reduces the risk of leaves getting stuck in the condenser unit.

Use an air conditioner cover.  Use an air conditioner cover that’s made from a breathable material such as canvas. Avoid covers made from plastic, vinyl and other non-breathable materials, as these will allow condensation—and by extension rust—to form on metal surfaces. For more maintenance tips, consult one of your local  HVAC companies.

Are you looking for experienced HVAC contractors near you?

Home Air Services, a company with nearly seven decades of experience, offers a wide range of professional HVAC services, including  air conditioning repair. To schedule an appointment, call us at (301) 585-8100 or fill out this  form.