If you have rust on your air conditioner, there are ways to remove it. Below is a step-by-step procedure for the specific steps you can take. You will need the materials listed below before you get started.

Materials List

  • Screwdriver
  • Condenser cleaner spray
  • 1-quart mixture equal parts water and bleach

The Step-By-Step Procedure

1. Turn the power off for the circuit breaker at the main electrical panel. Do not attempt to service the unit with the power on as you could easily be electrocuted.

2. Take off the side panel(s) of the AC using a screwdriver. You may need to remove more than one panel depending on the location of your AC’s condenser unit. It is a good idea to check your owner’s manual so you are 100% certain of the condenser’s location.

3. Remove the top lid from the AC in order to access the condenser.

4. Locate the actual condenser unit, which will be a square or rectangular panel that has many coils or fins on the outside.

5. Get the can of condenser cleaner and spray the entire surface of the condenser. You should watch for the foam to rise and cover the whole surface to ensure rust is effectively removed.

6. Allow the foam to remain on the outside of the condenser until it runs down the coils into the drain pan.

7. Add a 1-quart mixture with equal parts water and bleach into the drain pan. This will ensure that the drain pan does not become clogged with debris falling from the condenser coils.

8. Reverse steps 2 and 3 for reassembling the outside of the AC.

9. Remember to turn the power back on at the main electrical panel.

Contact Us for Help

If your AC has excessive rust and needs repairs, please call Honest Air Conditioning in Mesa, Arizona. Honest Air Conditioning has an A+ rating with the BBB! We can help with all your heating and cooling needs.