Frequently changing the air filter of your air conditioner might prove to be expensive. Learn how to clean your AC evaporator coil to help you save money and make your home more comfortable this summer.
Signs of a Dirty Evaporator Coil
The most common sign of a dirty evaporator coil is the drop in cooling efficiency. Dirt along the coil creates a layer of insulation between the refrigerant coil and air. This makes it harder for the refrigerant to absorb heat from the air and result in the rise of room temperature. An air conditioner won’t be able to achieve expected cooling with a dirty evaporator coil.
Also read: Why Is the AC Compressor Not Working Although the Condenser Fan Is Running
Why Is Cleaning Evaporator Coils Important?
Your air conditioner has a number of small parts that play an important role in the functioning of the system. The evaporator coils work along with the condenser coils to cool down the room temperature. While the evaporator coil removes the humidity and heat from the inside of your house, the condenser coil is where the heat is removed from the refrigerant.
The collection of dirt, dust, and debris can reduce the flow of air and prevent the absorption of heat. This can cause the air conditioner to consume extra energy to cool down the room temperature.
Also read: How to Eliminate Mold from Air Conditioner Duct
How to Clean AC Evaporator Coils Inside Your House
Even if your air conditioning system is functioning properly, cleaning evaporator coils regularly is a good way to ensure that your air conditioner remains in good condition.
Follow these steps to clean an AC evaporator coil yourself:
- The first step of cleaning the evaporator coil is to identify where it is located. The evaporator coil for most central air conditioning systems is a copper pyramid-shaped coil located inside the air conditioner.
- Once you have located the coil, turn off the thermostat.
- Wear protective gear to make sure dust and other particles do not enter your eyes while cleaning.
- Locate the evaporator coil in the AC panel. Go through the user’s manual beforehand to avoid confusion during the cleaning process.
- Remove and store the screws holding the panel carefully to make sure you do not lose them.
- Start cleaning the coil by brushing the dust buildup.
- Use a smaller brush or piece of cloth to clean the finer dust particles.
- Use an air compressor to clean stubborn dust particles or to ensure fine cleaning. Apply the compressed air evenly around coils at a 90-degree angle.
- For a deep clean, apply foam that is specially designed for cleaning evaporator coils. Make sure that the foam is designed especially for cleaning coils and is safe to use on other plastic components of the AC.
Follow these steps at least every three months or as often as required to ensure your air conditioning system functions efficiently.
Also read: Top 5 Reasons Why No Air Is Blowing from Your AC Vents
However, despite following these steps, your AC can get damaged. Hiring a trained HVAC technician will not only help you clean the coil efficiently but also identify potential problems before they cause more damage to your AC. Consider signing up for an annual maintenance plan that can help in increasing the life of your air conditioner and reducing your bills!
If you are looking for a cleaning service of your air conditioner’s evaporator coil, contact us today.
White Mechanical, Inc.
Founded in 2002, White Mechanical, Inc. in Laguna Hills, CA, is one of the most trusted and licensed (HVAC) service providers, proudly serving Orange County and the surrounding communities. Our management team has more than 28 years of experience in various aspects of HVAC technology. All our HVAC technicians are professionally skilled and certified to deliver outstanding residential HVAC services as well as commercial HVAC services to our clients. We offer professional HVAC services including installation, maintenance, air conditioning repair, and more at very reasonable prices.
