There are many different parts of an air conditioner (AC) and each one plays an important role. There are two different types of coils within your system and both of these need to stay clean to keep the unit running efficiently and effectively. AC coil cleaning is an essential part of maintaining your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.
More information about cleaning your AC coils:
Condenser and Evaporator Coils
There are two separate coils within your AC, one in the indoor unit and one in the outdoor unit. The inside coil is known as the evaporator coil. It contains refrigerant in its liquid form which then absorbs heat and transforms into a gas, cooling the air inside. In the outdoor unit, the condenser coil does the opposite. The gaseous refrigerant in this part of the system turns into a liquid and releases heat into the outdoor environment. The liquid refrigerant then flows back into the indoor portion of the system to repeat the process.
The Importance of AC Coil Cleaning
Your coils may attract dust, pollen, and other contaminants from your indoor air. This can happen more quickly if your air filter is dirty or if there is more dust in your air than usual, such as after a home improvement project. When dirt and debris stick to your coils, they form a barrier that prevents them from transferring heat effectively. This can increase energy use by up to 40% and decreases the cooling capacity of your system by approximately 30%. Putting off AC coil cleaning can have a long-term effect on your HVAC and could cause breakdowns or other issues.
How to Tell If Your Coils are Dirty
If you notice that your home is not getting as cool as it should, dirty coils may be the cause. You can check your coils visually. The evaporator coil is located behind your HVAC’s access panel. Be sure to turn the unit off before examining it. The condenser coil is inside the outdoor unit and although you can’t see it from the outside, you may want to consider cleaning if the exterior of the unit is dirty or has any debris on it.
During an AC inspection for routine maintenance, our technicians will check the coils for you. This is often easier than locating and inspecting them on your own and we will also look for a variety of other possible issues.
Professional or DIY AC Coil Cleaning
If your coils are only slightly dirty, you may be able to clean them yourself. However, you will need to purchase the proper tools and supplies and it takes time to get the job done right. You also risk damaging the coils, which may result in needing more serious and costly repairs. Our professionals at Signature Heating and Cooling can clean your coils if necessary and we are always transparent about the process so you know what to expect.
AC Maintenance
If you need any type of AC maintenance, including coil cleaning, we can help.