Clogged air conditioning (AC) coils can limit airflow, causing your AC to use more energy and potentially damaging your unit. You can contact an air conditioning repair service to maintain your HVAC system and help it function optimally. Here is more information about AC coils and their cleaning requirements:
Reasons To Conduct AC Coil Maintenance
Regular air conditioning coil maintenance helps prevent clogs caused by dirt, dust, and debris. When the coil is clogged, it can obstruct airflow and impact the performance of your cooling system. A clogged AC coil may also cause issues with your indoor air quality, leading to possible allergy flare-ups. By keeping your AC coils clean, you can minimize these problems. Consider hiring an air conditioning repair expert to perform effective coil maintenance, such as cleaning or replacing your coils.
Factors Influencing the Cleaning Frequency
Several factors can influence the recommended cleaning frequency of your AC coils, including the unit’s age and location. Air conditioning coils typically need to be checked and cleaned at least once a year. If you live in a dusty environment, smoke inside, have pets, or use your AC frequently, cleaning your coils more often may be necessary. It can help to schedule cleaning at the beginning of the summer season before the heat sets in. This allows your unit to run your AC efficiently throughout the summer.
When To Clean Your AC Coils
It may be time to schedule an AC coil cleaning if you notice a reduction in the system’s cooling power or an increase in energy bills. Check for musty or moldy odors and strange noises coming from your unit. These signs can be related to dirty coils. If your air conditioner is turning on and off more frequently than usual, often referred to as short cycling, it might be struggling to maintain the set temperature due to compromised coil efficiency. After visually inspecting the coils, if you can see dirt, dust, or debris on the coils, it’s a clear indication that cleaning is needed.
If the air coming from the vents is not as cool as it should be, it may indicate that the indoor evaporator coil is not absorbing heat efficiently. Ice forming on the evaporator coil may also be a sign of reduced airflow from dirt or debris accumulation. The debris can act as an insulator, causing the coil to become too cold and freeze.
How To Clean Your AC Coils
Start by turning off the unit and disconnecting the power for your safety. Remove any debris around the unit and spray the coil with an approved cleaning solution. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove stubborn dirt, and rinse the coil thoroughly with water. Avoid bending or damaging the coil fins, as this can affect airflow. Let the coil dry completely before turning the unit back on.
Common mistakes to avoid during air conditioning coil cleaning include using high-pressure water sources, which may damage the coil and affect airflow. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can corrode the coil and cause irreparable damage. Consider using mild and specifically designed cleaning agents, following the manufacturer’s guidelines for all cleaning steps.
Contact an Air Conditioning Repair Service
Regular cleaning of your AC coils may extend the lifespan of your HVAC system, improve energy efficiency, and help improve your home’s air quality. You can hire professional air conditioning repair and cleaning services at least once a year to maintain your cooling system. Consider checking your coils more often if you have pets or live in a dusty environment. A professional can remove collected dirt and conduct necessary AC repairs, keeping you and your family cool during the summer months.
