If you’re looking over your spring checklist of home chores, you may run into labeled “clean condenser coils.” It sounds complicated, and you’re not sure you’re up to the task. What are the benefits of cleaning condenser coils?

Why You Need Clean Coils

It may seem overly fussy but cleaning your AC coils is an important part of keeping your HVAC system functioning well and efficiently. Briefly, you need clean coils to:

  • Improve efficiency

  • Save money

  • Preserve the life of your equipment

  • Improve indoor air quality

What Does Cleaning Your AC Coils Do?

The condenser coils on your outdoor AC unit transfer the heat from your home to the outdoor air. Generally made of copper, they’re encased in aluminum fins that help transfer heat to help cool your home. They can become coated with dirt, debris, and residue that prevent the coils from radiating this excess heat.

What Happens When Condenser Coils Are dirty?

Cleaning your AC coils improves the unit’s efficiency. Dirty coils interfere with the transfer of heat to the outside of the system. It makes it harder for your unit to reach the set temperature, and this means it will use more energy to keep you cool.

The ability to transfer heat relies on the temperature difference between the coils and the outside air. When the coils are dirty, it raises the temperature in the condensing unit, which narrows that gap, and prevents the transfer of heat.

Dirty coils can increase the energy usage of your AC system as much as 40 percent.

Can I Clean AC Coils Myself?

If you’re handy, you may want to try cleaning your condenser coils yourself. The first thing you’ll need to do is turn off the system and shut off the breaker.

You should find a removable access panel on the outdoor unit that will let you clean the coils yourself with:

  1. Compressed air or shop vac

  2. Brushing

  3. Mild cleaning solution

  4. Garden hose

Don’t forget to get a fin comb to straighten any bent or damaged fins.

How often should condenser coils be cleaned?

While commercial buildings require quarterly cleaning, residential units should be cleaned at least annually.

Is Cleaning AC Coils Necessary?

As you can see, the benefits of cleaning condenser coils far outweigh the cost or inconvenience. Your HVAC system represents a significant investment in your home, and extending its life is always worthwhile.

Along with its impact on the environment, a 40 percent reduction in energy costs is also pretty significant.

But you don’t have to struggle with a wrench or air compressor to get your coils clean. Make an appointment today with the experts at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning in Chattanooga for fast, efficient, and affordable HVAC maintenance.