The service life of climate control equipment significantly increases with timely routine maintenance. Air conditioners operate reliably for a long time if they are regularly cleared of dust, lint, grease, and other debris. This maintenance goes beyond just replacing filters; it includes cleaning heat exchangers, typically coil-shaped components. While this procedure is straightforward, knowing how to clean air conditioner unit coils at home is essential. Our experts provide guidance on the best methods for doing so.

Five reasons why regular cleaning of heat exchangers is important

  1. Efficiency reduction: Accumulated dirt on the heat exchanger inhibits heat transfer, leading to an increased workload of the air conditioning system or furnace.
  2. Energy efficiency: A clean heat exchanger reduces energy consumption and lowers your carbon footprint. In contrast, a dirty one forces the system to work longer and harder to achieve desired temperatures.
  3. Extended equipment lifespan: Timely cleaning prevents premature wear and tear on air conditioner components, such as the compressor. Conversely, contamination can cause overheating and shorten the system’s lifespan.
  4. Improved air quality: A clean air conditioner contributes to better indoor air quality by preventing dust and contaminants from circulating in the room. This helps mitigate allergies and respiratory issues caused by dust mites, fungi, and mold thriving in dirty conditions.
  5. Safety: Clean equipment is safer to operate. Accumulated dust on heat exchangers can create fire hazards, especially when the system operates under heavy load.

Types of coil heat exchangers in air conditioners

To maintain optimal indoor climate, split systems consisting of two units are commonly used: one installed inside the house and the other outside. These units cool the air using two types of coils: a condenser that dissipates heat and an evaporator that cools the air.

Coils in air conditioners vary by structure and material:

  • Coils made of copper or aluminum tubes and fins
  • Microchannel heat exchangers
  • Heat exchangers with a water circuit
  • Finned-tube heat exchangers with rows of plates (fins)

The operation principle remains similar across these types. The refrigerant absorbs heat from indoor air, becoming hot gas that moves to the outdoor unit. The condenser coil then cools this gas, releasing heat into the surrounding air and causing the gas to condense into a liquid. This liquid refrigerant returns to the indoor unit, passing through the evaporator coil. Here, it evaporates, absorbing heat from indoor air and cooling it.

While the operational principles are largely uniform, it is advisable to identify the type of air conditioner and determine the recommended maintenance frequency before proceeding with coil cleaning.

Recommended frequency of coil cleaning

Many manufacturers stipulate regular maintenance to uphold equipment warranties, specifying how often air conditioner coils should be cleaned. However, once the manufacturer’s warranty expires, owners must manage these tasks independently.

Experts generally recommend cleaning coils annually. In some cases, more frequent cleaning is necessary (up to twice a year) based on specific conditions and equipment usage intensity.

You may need to clean coils more often if:

  • The air conditioner is installed in an area with highly polluted air.
  • There are feathers, lint, or pet hair in the house.
  • The air conditioner filters require frequent cleaning.
  • The unit runs continuously.

Coil cleaning is a straightforward task that can be performed without professional assistance, provided you have detailed instructions on how to clean HVAC coils yourself.

Methods of cleaning air conditioner coils

Several methods exist for cleaning air conditioner coils, each with its advantages and considerations. For those lacking experience in servicing climate systems, specialists are recommended for cleaning coils of various air conditioner types using the most appropriate method.

Common methods include:

  • Mechanical cleaning: Using brushes or vacuum cleaners to remove dust and dirt from coil surfaces.
  • Chemical cleaning: Applying specialized products that dissolve dirt and grease, followed by rinsing with water. This can involve cleaning foam or aerosols.
  • High-pressure washer cleaning: Using water pressure (not exceeding 400 PSI) to effectively remove dirt from outdoor units.
  • Steam generator cleaning: Applying hot mist to penetrate and dissolve dirt in hard-to-reach areas of the coils.
  • Ultrasonic cleaning: Using ultrasonic waves to create microbubbles that burst and remove dirt. This method requires specialized equipment.
  • Electrostatic cleaning: Using an electrostatic charge to attract and remove dust and dirt from coil surfaces.

It is crucial to avoid damaging the equipment during cleaning. If cleaning coils for the first time, consider supervision by a specialist. Over time, you can gain confidence to perform these tasks independently.

Signs that the heat exchangers need to be cleaned

The need for cleaning is indicated by:

  • A decrease in cooling or heating performance
  • Increased energy consumption
  • Deterioration of indoor air quality
  • The appearance of unpleasant odors
  • Condensation on the indoor units
  • Overheating of internal components
  • Unusual sounds during the air conditioner operation

Instructions for cleaning heat exchangers at home

Home repairs can be challenging due to differences in air conditioner models. The indoor unit coil may be inside the fan coil, making access difficult. The same applies to the outdoor unit, which often has protective coverings that may need to be removed before cleaning. Professional services can provide a precise cost estimate only after inspecting the unit.

Stages of the home cleaning process:

  1. Unplug the air conditioner for safety.
  2. Remove the outer cover or grille (a screwdriver may be required).
  3. Remove dust and dirt with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner with a nozzle.
  4. Apply the cleaning agent according to the instructions on the package.
  5. Rinse with water after applying the cleaning agent.
  6. Allow the equipment to dry and replace the outer cover.
  7. Connect the air conditioner to a power outlet.

By following these recommendations, you can effectively clean the air conditioner coils and ensure the proper operation of your climate control equipment.

Rocky Mountain is a reliable expert in air conditioner repair and maintenance

Climate control equipment can break down at the most unexpected moments. However, Rocky Mountain HVAC customers are protected from unexpected breakdowns thanks to the professionalism of our technicians. Our specialists provide high-quality repair, installation, and maintenance services for all air conditioners. They respond promptly to calls and provide a guarantee for the work performed. If you are in Salt Lake City, Utah, save our contact information. We will ensure the smooth operation of your air conditioner, and if necessary, we will replace or repair it.