Knowing how to clean AC condenser coils is a good idea so you can be aware of the importance of this maintenance item. Actually taking on this task yourself, however, is not for everyone. To make sure it’s performed correctly and safely, this is usually a job for a qualified HVAC technician.
Why Clean Coils Matter
A central air conditioner consists of two coils that work together to keep the home comfortably cool. Here’s a simplified description explaining how to clean AC condenser coils:
- The evaporator coil installed in the AC air handler inside the house circulates refrigerant that extracts heat from indoor airflow.
- Warm refrigerant flows through a conduit tube outside to the AC condenser coil, which is located in the unit behind or beside the house.
- The condenser coil releases extracted indoor heat into outdoor air.
- Refrigerant flow circles back to the indoor evaporator coil to extract more heat.
Dirt, dust, leaves, and other issues typically accumulate on the surface of outdoor condenser coils. This degrades both cooling performance and AC energy efficiency. Then, indoor comfort declines while monthly operating costs increase.
How the Job Is Done
An HVAC professional has the tools as well as the experience to know how to clean AC condenser coils effectively and safely. Steps in the process include:
- Shut off high-voltage electrical current to the outdoor unit.
- Cut back any encroaching vegetation such as weeds to establish a clear zone on all sides of the unit for proper air circulation.
- Remove unit housing to expose coils.
- Clean out debris such as leaves, insects, vermin, etc, from the coil and coil enclosure.
- Inspect coils for signs of damage or defects such as refrigerant leakage.
- Check the coil fan and fan grille for damage or obstructions.
- Straighten any bent or deformed coil fins.
- Apply special coil-cleaning formula to remove dirt and dust.
- Rinse coils with clean water.
- Install housing and restore power.
- Test system for proper operation.
Trained professional technicians know how to clean AC condenser coils properly and keep you cool this summer. Contact the experts at Ace Hardware Home Services for more information.
