Routine maintenance of your A/C coils can improve the lifespan and efficiency of your central air conditioning system. Along with changing your air filters, this is a simple way to achieve peak efficiency. Experts recommend that you have your A/C professionally serviced every spring just before its first use of the cooling season, though if you haven’t had it done yet this year, there’s no time like the present. While most homeowners are advised to engage a professional for any A/C maintenance more involved than change the air filter, if you’re a handy do-it-yourselfer, you can probably clean the coils without too much problem.
A number of steps are involved with cleaning the evaporator coil. First, remember to turn off the power – both to the condenser and to the evaporator. Next, remove the foil-covered insulation covering the plenum. Carefully remove the screws and the plate. Using a stiff brush and foaming/no-rinse coil cleaner, gently scrub the entire underside of the unit and A/C coils; then, use an equal parts mixture of bleach and water to flush out the drain line. Finally, reattach the evaporator coil access panel, and reseal it with metal tape.
The condenser unit is located outside the house. Make sure the area around the air conditioner is free of grass, weeds and bushes. Detach the outer panel, and carefully remove the top. Use a rag or whisk broom, along with a small application of oil, to dislodge dirt from the A/C coil. A spray of biodegradable foaming cleaner can help; be sure to cover any electrical wires with plastic before spraying, however. Repeat as often as necessary, directing the cleaner away from the coils, continuing until the runoff is completely clear. Finally, look closely at the coils; if any appear bent, use a fin comb to straighten them. Once you are satisfied that your coils are clean and straight, reassemble the air conditioning unit.
If you have any doubts about your ability to clean your A/C coils, leave the task for a trained HVAC professional, such as our experts at Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing. We’ve been serving the greater Indianapolis area for over 40 years. To make an appointment for your A/C unit’s annual service, or for any of your HVAC needs, please contact us today.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Brownsburg, Indiana and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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