Feeling refreshed and staying cool in the summer feels great in a cool and comfortable building. While the air conditioner is working hard to do so, it also needs to be maintained and cleaned regularly. Dirt, dust, and debris accumulation on your air conditioning coils can damage your air conditioning system. It can lead to:
Shorten Air Conditioner’s Lifespan
The air conditioner will be working harder and over-stressed with the reduced airflow through the system. The compressor, heart of the AC unit and most costly part to replace, will run at higher temperatures to continue cooling and may shut down if it is overworked.
Reduced Comfort and Cooling
The excessive build-up will decrease the unit’s ability to absorb or release heat and reduce its ability to remove humidity.
Frozen Coils
The coils can freeze and can drip water as the ice defrosts from the coils.
Cleaning the air conditioner coils will improve the system’s life expectancy and maintain comfort for the users.
Take these steps to reduce this accumulation without having to hire a professional.
1. Replace or Clean Filters
Regularly check the filters to see if one needs to replace the disposable filter or clean the reusable filter.
2. Air-cooled air conditioning systems have an outdoor condensing unit. Clear any leaves and debris that accumulated on the outdoor condenser and around its area.
However, if the coils are dirty, it is time to clean them.
How to Clean AC Coils?
Tools
Brush, Vacuum, or Compressed Air
Commercial Coil Cleaner
Low-pressure Water Sprayer
Steps
1. Turn off the air conditioner at the thermostat.
2. Access the coils that need cleaning. It may require removing the screws or fasteners to the access panel.
3. Gently brush off surface debris and dust using the brush, compressed air, or vacuum. Make sure to be gentle enough with the brush not to damage or bend the fins. Do not use compressed air or vacuum on an angle otherwise, it can damage or bend the thin metal fins.
4. Follow the instructions and precautions listed on the chemical cleaner and spray the coils as directed.
5. Allow the cleaner to foam and drain away with the debris.
6. Gently rinse the fins with the low-pressure water sprayer.
AC coil cleaning comes a long way and is cost-effective. Hiring a professional to clean the AC coils is cheaper than having to repair. Consider setting up a maintenance agreement to extend the system’s lifespan and lower operating costs. Contact Broadtrade Service Group to see how their maintenance agreements can help you with your cooling system.