As the temperatures rise, we all rely heavily on our air conditioners to keep us cool and comfortable. But what happens when your trusty A/C unit isn't working as efficiently as it used to? You might be quick to think it's time for a costly repair or even a replacement. However, before you start worrying about the expense, there's a simple maintenance task that could make all the difference: cleaning the coils on your air conditioner.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about cleaning your air conditioner coils—from the why and how to safety tips and when it’s best to call in the pros. Let’s dive in.
Why Clean Air Conditioner Coils?
You might be wondering, "Why should I bother cleaning the coils on my air conditioner?" Well, the answer is simple: dirty coils can be a major drag on your system's performance. When the coils are caked with dirt and debris, the air conditioner has to work harder to cool your home. This not only leads to higher energy bills but can also shorten the lifespan of your unit.
Regularly cleaning your air conditioner coils keeps your system running efficiently, which translates to better cooling, lower energy costs, and less wear and tear on your unit. Plus, a clean A/C means improved indoor comfort—no more uneven cooling or struggling to keep the house at your desired temperature.
Types of Coils
Before you grab your cleaning supplies, it’s important to know that there are two main types of coils in your air conditioning system: condenser coils and evaporator coils. Both play a crucial role in the cooling process, and both need to be cleaned regularly to keep your system humming along.
Condenser Coils
Condenser coils are located outdoors in the condenser unit. Their job is to release the heat absorbed from your home into the outside air. Because they’re exposed to the elements, they tend to accumulate dirt, leaves, and other outdoor contaminants. The good news? These coils can usually be cleaned with a garden hose and some elbow grease.
Evaporator Coils
Evaporator coils are found indoors, usually in the air handler or furnace. These coils absorb heat from the air inside your home, which is then cooled and circulated back through your vents. Since evaporator coils are inside, they gather dust, pet hair, and other indoor contaminants. Cleaning them requires a bit more care, as they cannot simply be hosed down like condenser coils.
How Often to Clean Coils
Cleaning the coils on your air conditioner isn’t a one-and-done task. To keep your system in tip-top shape, you should aim to clean the coils at least once a year. However, depending on your environment (think dusty areas, lots of trees, or pet-friendly homes), you might need to clean them more frequently. If you’re unsure, a good rule of thumb is to inspect the coils every few months during peak usage seasons and clean them as needed.
Safety Considerations
Before you roll up your sleeves and get to work, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Coil cleaners are powerful chemicals that can be hazardous to your health if not handled properly. Always wear safety glasses, a face shield, chemical-resistant gloves, and protective clothing when using these products.
And here’s a tip that might save you a lot of trouble: make sure to completely cut off the electricity to your air conditioning system before you start cleaning. Turning off the system at the thermostat isn’t enough—head to your circuit breaker and switch off the power to the unit. The last thing you want is to accidentally shock yourself while trying to clean the coils.
Preparing for Coil Cleaning
Now that you’ve taken the necessary safety precautions, it’s time to prepare your air conditioner for cleaning. Here’s how to get started:
Turn Off the Power: As mentioned, disconnect the power to your A/C unit by flipping the circuit breaker or unplugging the outdoor unit. Double-check that the power is off before proceeding.
Remove the Outer Cover: For condenser coils, you’ll need to remove the outer cover of the unit to access the coils. This usually involves unscrewing a few bolts or screws and gently lifting the cover off. Set it aside somewhere safe.
Inspect the Coils: Take a good look at the coils. Are they caked with dirt, leaves, or other debris? If so, they’re ready for a good cleaning.
Cleaning Coils
Now comes the fun part—cleaning the coils. Let’s break it down into the two types of coils you’ll be working with.
Cleaning Condenser Coils
Condenser coils are the outdoor warriors of your A/C unit, constantly exposed to the elements. Here’s how to give them a thorough cleaning:
Remove Loose Debris: Start by using a soft-bristled brush or compressed air to gently remove loose dirt, leaves, and debris from the coils and fins. Be gentle—those aluminum fins are delicate and can bend easily.
Apply Coil Cleaner: Once the loose debris is gone, apply a coil cleaner to the coils. You can find commercial coil cleaners at most hardware stores. Follow the instructions on the cleaner, which usually involves letting it sit for a few minutes to break down stubborn dirt and grime.
Rinse with a Hose: After the cleaner has done its job, rinse the coils thoroughly with a garden hose. Use a gentle spray to avoid damaging the fins, and make sure all the cleaner is washed away.
Cleaning Evaporator Coils
Cleaning evaporator coils requires a bit more finesse since they’re located indoors and can’t be hosed down like condenser coils.
Remove Dirt and Debris: Use a nylon brush to gently remove any large chunks of dirt or debris from the coils.
Apply Foam Cleaner: Spray a generous amount of foam cleaner onto the coils. Let the cleaner sit for 5 to 10 minutes to loosen any built-up grime. The foam will expand and penetrate the coils, lifting dirt away.
Dry the Coils: After the cleaner has had time to work, use a soft towel to dry the coils as much as possible. You can also let them air dry if you prefer.
Using Coil Cleaner
When it comes to choosing a coil cleaner, you have a couple of options. You can buy a commercial coil cleaner, which is designed specifically for this job, or you can make your own with a simple mixture of water and vinegar. If you go the DIY route, just mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle, apply it to the coils, and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes before wiping it away.
For evaporator coils, it’s best to use a spray bottle to control the water discharge and avoid oversaturating the area.
Reassembling the Unit
Once the coils are clean and dry, it’s time to put everything back together. Here’s how:
Let the Coils Air Dry: Make sure the coils are completely dry before reassembling the unit. This prevents any moisture from getting trapped inside, which could lead to mold growth or other issues.
Replace the Outer Cover: Carefully reattach the top and side covers of the unit. Make sure all screws and bolts are secured properly to keep everything in place.
Turn the Power Back On: Once the unit is reassembled, head back to the circuit breaker and turn the power back on. Your A/C unit is now ready to go!
Tips for Effective Coil Cleaning
To get the most out of your coil cleaning efforts, keep these tips in mind:
Use a Fin Comb: If you notice any flattened fins on the coils, use a fin comb to straighten them out. This helps maintain airflow and ensures your system operates efficiently.
Vacuum the Unit: Before you finish up, use a shop vacuum to remove any remaining dust or debris from the unit. This will help keep the area clean and prevent future buildup.
Clean Regularly: Don’t wait until your A/C is struggling to keep up before you clean the coils. Regular cleaning (at least once a year) will keep your system running smoothly and extend its lifespan.
When to Seek Professional Help
While cleaning your air conditioner coils is a task that most homeowners can handle, there are times when it’s best to call in the pros. For example, if you notice extensively damaged fins that can’t be fixed with a fin comb, it’s time to contact an HVAC technician. Additionally, if you’re not comfortable working with electrical components or accessing hard-to-reach areas, a professional can handle the job safely and efficiently.
It’s also worth noting that many HVAC technicians offer regular maintenance services that include coil cleaning. This can be a convenient way to ensure your system stays in top shape without having to worry about it yourself. Keep in mind that coil replacement costs can range from $600 to $2,000 depending on the brand, unit size, and location, so regular maintenance is well worth the investment.
Conclusion
Cleaning the coils on your air conditioner is a simple yet effective way to improve your system’s efficiency, durability, and lifespan. By taking the time to clean the coils regularly, you can prevent system breakdowns, reduce energy bills, and avoid costly repairs.
Whether you choose to tackle the job yourself or call in a professional, following the steps outlined in this guide will ensure your air conditioner’s coils are clean and functioning efficiently. With a little effort and attention to detail, you can keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long without breaking the bank.