Introduction
If you have an air conditioning unit, no matter how much you paid for it or how good the brand is, you need to clean its AC coils regularly to keep it functioning efficiently. In this guide, we will explain step-by-step how to clean your AC coils, why it is important, and what you can do to keep your AC unit working like new.
Step-by-step guide to cleaning AC coils
The coils of your air conditioning unit are responsible for cooling the air before releasing it into your home. But over time, they accumulate dust, dirt, and other debris that can reduce efficiency and increase energy bills. Follow these simple steps to clean your AC coils:
Gather the equipment needed
Before starting to clean your AC coils, you will need the following tools:
- Gloves
- Goggles
- A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment
- A coil cleaning solution
- A spray bottle
- A fin comb
Switch off the power and remove the AC unit casing
The first step in the cleaning process is to switch off the power to your AC unit. You can do this either by unplugging the power cord or by switching off the circuit breaker. Remove the AC unit casing carefully, taking note of any screws or clips that may be holding it in place. Place the screws, clips, and other pieces in a safe place, where you won’t lose them.
Clean the fins and fan
Use your vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to clean the fins of the AC unit. Be gentle and don’t damage the fins. Clean the fan as well, removing any accumulation of dust and dirt. If the fan blades are dirty, use a mild soap solution to clean them. Rinse the fan blades thoroughly, and let them dry.
Clean the coils
Spray your coil cleaning solution onto the coils. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the coils. Leave the coil cleaning solution to sit on the coils for about 10 minutes. This allows the solution to penetrate and remove any built-up dirt and debris. Rinse the coils using a garden hose with a gentle stream of water. Allow the AC unit to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Reassemble the AC unit casing
Once the AC unit is dry, you can reassemble the casing. Make sure to put the pieces back in the correct order and position. Reconnect the power supply, and switch on the AC unit to make sure it is working correctly.
Video tutorial on cleaning AC coils
If you prefer to learn through visual aid, you can watch this video tutorial to see how to clean your AC coils:
While familiarizing yourself with the equipment needed and the steps involved in cleaning AC coils, you will notice how simple and easy it can be once you know-how.
Importance of cleaning AC coils
Now that you know how to clean your AC coils, you may be wondering why it is so important. Here are the reasons why:
Dirty coils reduce efficiency
When the coils in your AC unit are dirty, they cannot cool the air efficiently. Moreover, the coils have to work harder to cool the air, increasing wear and tear, shortening the life of the AC unit, and increasing your energy bill. Cleaning your AC coils saves you money in the long run because when they are clean, they will operate more efficiently, require less power, and generate cooler air quicker.
Cleaning prolongs your AC unit lifespan
AC units with dirty coils do not last as long as those with clean coils. The lifespan of a typical AC unit can be reduced by up to 5 years if the coils are not cleaned. Cleaning extends the life of your AC unit, making the investment worth it.
DIY cleaning vs professional cleaning
You can clean your AC coils yourself or hire a professional. Here are the pros and cons of each option:
DIY cleaning
Pros:
- You save money by cleaning the coils yourself
- No need to wait for an appointment
- You are in control of the cleaning process
Cons:
- You need to have the right equipment and tools
- You may not be able to clean the coils completely, leading to inefficiency problems
- You are responsible for any damage caused to the AC unit during the cleaning process
Professional cleaning
Pros:
- Cleaning is done by trained and experienced professionals
- The coil cleaning process will be thorough
- You will not be responsible for any damage done to the AC unit
Cons:
- You have to pay for the cleaning service
- You may need to wait for an available appointment
- You have less control over the cleaning process
Impact of location on AC coil cleaning
The frequency of cleaning your AC coils may vary depending on your location, season, and surrounding environment. For instance, if you live in an area with high air pollution, where there is dust, sand, and debris in the air, you may need to clean your coils more often. Similarly, if your AC unit is located near a construction site, in a wooded area, or next to a busy road, it may be necessary to clean the coils more frequently.
Best practices for avoiding dirty AC coils
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to help keep your AC coils clean:
- Maintain a regular cleaning schedule. Aim to clean your AC coils at least once a year if you live in areas with low air pollution. Clean them twice a year for areas with high air pollution
- Cover the AC unit when not in use. This helps prevent dust and dirt from accumulating on the coils.
- Change your air filters regularly. A dirty or clogged air filter can reduce cooling efficiency, causing your AC coils to work harder to cool the air.
- Remove debris from the outdoor AC unit. Clear any leaves, grass or other debris that could get caught in the unit.
Conclusion
Keeping your AC coils clean is essential for the efficiency and longevity of your air conditioning unit. It is an easy and inexpensive process that will save you money in the long run. Choose whether to clean your AC coils yourself or through a professional service, depending on your budget and preferences. Always keep in mind that the most important step is prevention, so make sure to follow the best practices to avoid dirty AC coils.
