Springtime Cleaning Should Include Coils

Improve Air Conditioners by Cleaning Those Filthy Coils 

AC units work in circulating and transferring air from one place to another. Pollutants like dust, dirt, mold, mildew, pet dandruff, and more cling to the air as it circulates through the system, causing buildup on the coils (and filters). And if the coils are ignored when it comes to cleaning, then the pollutants will continue to build up until an AC is underperforming or not performing. 

That’s why it’s important to keep these AC coils clean. In this article, AC experts share some insights into evaporator coils and how dirty ones can impact the home. 

What Are Evaporator Coils?

However, these coils collect dust, dander, pet dandruff, and other indoor pollutants. This usually results in a lack of cool air output and keeps a house from reaching cooler temperatures. 

Aside from the risk of a person’s home not cooling down, having a dirty evaporator coil can increase energy use by up to 30%. Not cleaning these coils can result in further complications such as an overheating compressor. 

What About Outdoor Compressor Coils?

Evaporator coils aren’t the only coils that homeowners need to be concerned about. There are more coils located inside of the compressor outside of the home. These coils are called compressor coils or condenser coils.

Since these coils are located outside, they are at an even higher risk of becoming dirty since they are exposed to dirt, debris, and storm-related elements. If ignored for too long, the buildup of dirt and other debris can become severe and lead to costlier problems such as the entire system breaking down.

How to Maintain and Clean Coils 

It’s not just air quality that homeowners should be concerned about when it comes to dirty coils. Leaving these coils uncleaned can also cause utility bills to increase significantly. So, routine maintenance and cleaning of both the evaporator and compressor coils are a must. 

While homeowners can certainly clean these coils themselves, some just don’t have the time or energy to do it, so they will hire a professional company instead. 

For homeowners looking to do it themselves, evaporator coil cleaning and compressor coil cleaning (or condenser coil cleaning) can be an easy process. Mix a solution of warm water and a detergent into a spray bottle, then apply it to the coils. Wait a few minutes as the solution works to loosen the debris. At this point, the debris may fall away on its own, and if not, it can be brushed away. If the coils are still not clean enough, repeat the process until they are. Compressed air is another useful tool that can help clear debris out of the evaporator coils.

However, the dirtier the coils are, the harder they will be to clean, so it is advisable to hire a professional company to come in and clean them annually. No matter which route is taken, coil maintenance is important. Coil cleaning needs to be done properly at least once a year to improve efficiency, energy consumption, and air quality. 

About Albritton Service Co

Albritton Service Co offers electrical and HVAC upgrades for homeowners who need repairs or want to remodel their homes. Since 1982, this family-owned and operated business has offered excellent service and dedication to its customers. With a Carrier President Award in its pocket, this company is recognized as a reputable business. Contact them today to schedule evaporator coil cleaning services. 

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