Try to purchase a bag that comes with a cinch, so you can loosen and tighten its circumference. You can use an empty trash bag in lieu of a specialty cleaning bag.

Most machines have indoor and outdoor components, so make sure that you’re turning off the power to the entire cooling system. [4] X Trustworthy Source U. S. Department of Energy Official site for the U. S. Department of Energy, which provides resources related to energy safety, conservation, and efficiency Go to source

If there are no obvious tabs that open the front of your split A/C, check the manufacturer’s guide for help.

Wash out your filters at least once every other month. [7] X Trustworthy Source U. S. Department of Energy Official site for the U. S. Department of Energy, which provides resources related to energy safety, conservation, and efficiency Go to source

A brush or canister vacuum attachment can also help with this part of the process. [9] X Research source

You can purchase evaporating cleaners online.

If you’re having trouble finding this spray at a hardware store, check online.

If needed, feel free to flush water or a cleaning agent through the drain line both ways. You can purchase flush kits online that contain a pressurized nozzle.

You can also stick a wire or long piece of metal through the pipe to remove any clogs. [14] X Trustworthy Source U. S. Department of Energy Official site for the U. S. Department of Energy, which provides resources related to energy safety, conservation, and efficiency Go to source If your split A/C is still having issues, consider contacting a professional technician for help. Keep the cleaning bag in place after you turn the A/C on—there’s a good chance that the machine will be spitting out some dirty water. Wait until all of the waste has left the AC before removing and tossing out the bag.

Check your home’s schematics if you don’t know where the power source is. Generally, it can be found a few feet away from the unit outside.

Rake around your outdoor unit frequently and brush off any stray leaves or pieces of debris that you see. [17] X Trustworthy Source U. S. Department of Energy Official site for the U. S. Department of Energy, which provides resources related to energy safety, conservation, and efficiency Go to source

You can also purchase specific tools from a home improvement store that are designed to straighten out the A/C condenser fins.

Double check the manufacturer’s guide to confirm the safest way to take out your outdoor condenser fan.

Use a sprayer attachment if you want to get a finer or stronger mist from the hose. Try not to apply too much water pressure to the fins.

If your outdoor unit seems to be having issues, don’t be afraid to contact a professional for assistance.