How To Clean Air Conditioning Coils

Maintaining your air conditioning system is essential to ensure it operates efficiently and provides you with cool, clean air. One crucial aspect of AC maintenance is cleaning the air conditioning coils.

Over time, these coils can accumulate dirt, dust, and debris, reducing your system’s efficiency and potentially causing it to work harder. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of cleaning your air conditioning coils to help you keep your AC running smoothly and your indoor air quality high.

Why Clean Your Air Conditioning Coils?

The air conditioning coils in your HVAC system serve a vital function. The evaporator coils absorb heat from indoor air, while the condenser coils release that heat outdoors. When these coils become dirty or clogged, it can lead to several issues:

• Reduced Cooling Efficiency: Dirty coils are less efficient at transferring heat, causing your AC to work harder and consume more energy.
• Increased Energy Bills: The extra workload on your AC due to dirty coils can result in higher energy bills.
• Poor Indoor Air Quality: Dust and debris on coils can be circulated into your living spaces, negatively impacting indoor air quality.
• Potential System Damage: Neglecting coil cleaning can lead to AC system breakdowns and costly repairs.

Tools and Materials You Will Need To Clean Air Conditioning Coils

Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:

1. Safety Gear: Safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask to protect yourself from debris and chemicals.
2. Screwdriver or Wrench: To remove access panels or covers from the AC unit.
3. Coil Cleaner: Purchase a commercial coil cleaner from a hardware store. Ensure it’s compatible with your type of coils (evaporator or condenser).
4. Brush: A soft-bristle brush or coil cleaning brush.
5. Garden Hose: With a spray nozzle or pressure washer attachment.
6. Plastic Bag and Tape: To cover electrical components and prevent water damage.
7. Fin Comb: For straightening bent or damaged coil fins (if necessary).
8. Bucket or Drip Pan: To catch and dispose of dirty water.
9. Clean Cloth or Towels: For drying and wiping down components.

Step-by-Step Guide On How To Clean Air Conditioning Coils

Follow these steps to clean your air conditioning coils:

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

For safety, turn off the power to your AC unit at the thermostat and the circuit breaker. This will prevent the unit from accidentally turning on during cleaning.

Step 2: Access the Coils

Remove any access panels or covers that protect the coils. Typically, you’ll find these panels on the evaporator unit inside your home or the condenser unit outside.

Step 3: Protect Electrical Components

Use a plastic bag and tape to cover any electrical components near the coils, such as wiring and controls. This will prevent water from damaging these sensitive parts.

Step 4: Brush Away Loose Debris

Use a soft-bristle brush to gently remove loose debris and dirt from the coils. Be careful not to damage the fins, which are delicate.

Step 5: Apply Coil Cleaner

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the coil cleaner product. Generally, you will spray or apply the cleaner evenly over the coils. Allow it to sit for the recommended time to break down dirt and grime.

Step 6: Rinse with Water

Using a garden hose with a spray nozzle or a pressure washer attachment, rinse the coils thoroughly. Start from the top and work your way down to ensure all cleaner and debris are washed away.

Step 7: Straighten Bent Fins (if needed)

Inspect the coil fins for any bent or damaged sections. If you find any, use a fin comb to carefully straighten them. Properly aligned fins facilitate better airflow.

Step 8: Allow to Dry

Let the coils air dry completely before reassembling the access panels or covers. This may take several hours, so be patient.

Step 9: Restore Power

Turn the power back on at the thermostat and circuit breaker. Test your AC to ensure it’s functioning correctly.

The Bottom Line

Cleaning your air conditioning coils is a vital part of AC maintenance that can improve efficiency, extend the lifespan of your system, and enhance indoor air quality. Performing this task annually or as needed will help keep your AC running smoothly and your home comfortable. If you are uncomfortable with any step of the process or if your AC requires extensive cleaning or repairs, consider contacting a professional HVAC technician to ensure the job is done safely and effectively.