When the coils are dirty, the system has to work harder and run longer to keep the space cool. That means it consumes a lot more electricity. You will see a drop in your bill when you do a regular AC coil cleaning. While there are a number of commercially available coil cleaning solutions on the market, air conditioning coils can be cleaned with a mild household detergent solution and water.
The detergent and water mixture is applied to the coil using a low pressure sprayer. The coil is allowed to drain naturally or is rinsed lightly with a garden hose. This process can be repeated as needed. If a contractor chooses this method, make sure they are using a low-pressure sprayer and not a pressure washer.
They should never use a pressure washer, because high-power spraying will most likely damage the thin metal fins of the coil. Damaged or bent fins can restrict airflow and reduce heat transfer capabilities. Also make sure they are not using a detergent that is too acidic. Acid cleaners damage copper and alloyed metals used in the coil and can cause corrosion that will shorten the life of the coil.
Evaporator coils should be checked and cleaned as needed. If coils are prone to easily accumulating dirt and debris, monthly cleaning may be required. Otherwise, you may need to clean them every three months during the cooling season or annually during regularly scheduled preventive maintenance. Considering lower energy bills and an overall more efficient system, professional AC coil cleaning virtually pays for itself.
When cleaning an outdoor coil with compressed air, an HVAC distributor will blow air through the coils in the opposite direction to the direction in which air flows through the coil during normal use. One of the components most susceptible to dirt buildup that will require thorough cleaning is the air conditioner evaporator coil. But like other parts of the air conditioner, the evaporator and condenser coils can get dirty, causing the unit to malfunction. Your Carrier dealer can choose to clean the coils of your air conditioner with commercially available coil cleaning solutions.
If you are in a big city with heavy air pollution, you may want to have your coils cleaned twice a year. If a small amount of dirt accumulates on the coil, this will hinder the performance of your air conditioner. Regular air conditioner maintenance is crucial to keeping your unit, including the AC coils, clean and running smoothly. You might think that air conditioners “create cool air,” but in reality it's more accurate to say that they remove heat from the existing air in your home.
Here are some useful steps for cleaning AC evaporator coils, depending on the type and extent of cleaning performed. The air handler blows air through the evaporator's cold coil and, as the cool air passes past the coil, is directed to the duct system. To clean the indoor evaporator coil, the contractor will most likely clean larger debris by hand or with a special brush, and then apply an oil product from the evaporator with automatic rinsing. If the evaporator coils are dirty, they can't remove as much heat or moisture from the space and will take longer to cool the air.
In addition, they have the skills and knowledge to clean the units and their components and perform other maintenance services to ensure that the air conditioner works properly. When these components are not properly cleaned and maintained, they can even cause the air conditioner to break down. However, understanding the methods and procedures involved in cleaning the air conditioner coil will help you know what to expect and also help you better communicate your concerns with your local HVAC dealer. .
