Maintenance
Cleaning Your Indoor Air Handler: A Homeowner's Guide
6 min read••
Your indoor unit needs care too. Here's what you can safely maintain yourself.
While outdoor unit maintenance gets attention, the indoor air handler also needs care.
Understanding the Air Handler
The indoor unit typically contains: - Blower motor and fan - Evaporator coil - Filter slot - Drain pan and line - Control board
What Homeowners Can Maintain
Filter Replacement The most important maintenance task. Replace or clean monthly during heavy use.
Keeping the Area Clear Maintain clearance around the unit for: - Service access - Airflow - Safety
Condensate Drain The drain line removes moisture. You can: - Pour a cup of vinegar down the line quarterly - Check that water flows freely - Clear visible clogs at the drain exit
Exterior Cleaning Wipe down the exterior cabinet to remove dust.
What Requires Professional Service
Evaporator Coil Cleaning Deep cleaning the evaporator coil requires: - System shutdown - Accessing the coil - Proper cleaning agents - Rinse and dry process
Improper cleaning can damage the coil or leave residue.
Blower Wheel Cleaning The blower wheel accumulates dirt over time. Cleaning requires: - Removing the blower assembly - Careful cleaning without imbalancing - Proper reinstallation
Drain Pan Cleaning The drain pan under the coil can develop mold and slime. Professional cleaning ensures thorough removal.
Electrical Components Control boards, capacitors, and wiring should only be touched by qualified technicians.
Signs Your Air Handler Needs Attention
- Reduced airflow from vents
- Musty smells when system runs
- Water around the unit
- Unusual noises from the indoor unit
- Ice on visible parts