Cleaning AC Coils - A Comprehensive Guide

As a smart climate technology company, we understand the importance of maintaining your air conditioning unit to ensure it runs efficiently and effectively. One of the key components that needs regular attention is the AC coils. In this article, we will explore what AC coils are, why they're important, and how to clean them.

This article will cover the following topics:

• What are AC Coils?
• Why are AC Coils Important?
• Why should AC coils be cleaned?
• Frequency of AC Coil Cleaning
• How to Clean AC Coils
• AC Efficiency & Sensibo

What are AC Coils?

AC coils are a crucial part of your air conditioning unit, responsible for absorbing heat from the inside of your home and releasing it outside. There are two types of AC coils - the evaporator coils and the condenser coils. The evaporator coils, located inside the unit, absorb heat from the air inside your home and transfer it to the refrigerant. The condenser coils, located outside the unit, release the heat absorbed by the refrigerant to the outside air.

Why are AC Coils Important?

AC coils play a vital role in the cooling process of your air conditioning unit. If the coils are dirty or clogged, it can affect the efficiency of the unit and lead to higher energy bills. Dirty coils can also reduce the airflow, leading to inadequate cooling and potentially causing damage to the unit.

Why should AC coils be cleaned?

AC coils should be cleaned regularly to ensure the efficiency of your air conditioning unit. Dirty or clogged coils can reduce the airflow and hinder the cooling process, leading to inadequate cooling and potentially causing damage to the unit. Inefficient cooling can also result in higher energy bills as the unit has to work harder to cool your home. 

By cleaning the coils regularly, you can maintain the efficiency of the unit and reduce energy bills. Additionally, regular cleaning can help extend the lifespan of the unit, as dirty coils can cause wear and tear on the unit over time. Therefore, it is essential to clean your AC coils as part of your air conditioning maintenance routine.

Frequency of AC Coil Cleaning

The frequency of cleaning your AC coils will depend on a few factors such as the type of unit you have, the location of the unit, and the environment in which it is located. If you live in a dusty or humid area, or if you have pets, you may need to clean your coils more frequently. As a general rule, it is recommended to clean your AC coils at least once a year. However, if you notice any issues with the cooling performance of your unit, it is worth checking the coils to see if they need cleaning.

If you are unsure about how often to clean your AC coils, you can consult the manufacturer's guidelines or seek the advice of a professional HVAC technician. They will be able to assess the condition of your coils and recommend the best cleaning frequency for your specific unit. By following the recommended cleaning schedule, you can ensure the efficiency and longevity of your air conditioning unit.

How to Clean AC Coils

1. Cleaning your AC coils is an essential part of maintaining your air conditioning unit. Here are some steps you can follow to clean your AC coils:

2. Turn off the unit and disconnect the power source. It's essential to turn off the unit and disconnect the power source before cleaning to avoid any accidents.

3. Locate the coils. Depending on the type of unit you have, the coils may be located inside or outside. If the coils are inside, you will need to remove the access panel to access them. If the coils are outside, you will need to remove any debris or branches that may be blocking the unit.

4. Clean the coils. Use a soft brush or cloth to gently remove any dirt or debris from the coils. If the coils are particularly dirty, you can use a coil cleaning solution or a mixture of water and mild detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals as they can damage the coils.

5. Rinse the coils. Once you have cleaned the coils, rinse them thoroughly with water to remove any cleaning solution or dirt. Make sure to get all areas of the coils, including the fins.

6. Allow the coils to dry. After rinsing the coils, allow them to dry completely before reassembling the unit.

7. Reassemble the unit. Once the coils are dry, you can reassemble the unit, making sure to replace any panels or covers you removed during the cleaning process.

8. Turn on the unit. Once you have reassembled the unit, you can turn it back on and ensure it is running correctly.

AC Efficiency & Sensibo

AC coils play a crucial role in the cooling process of your air conditioning unit. Regularly cleaning the coils can help maintain the efficiency of the unit and reduce energy bills. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily clean your AC coils and ensure your air conditioning unit is running at its best.

For those requiring a smart solution to track their ACs efficiency, Sensibo’s products may be for you. Their flagship product, Sensibo Air Pro, tracks efficiency in real-time and even lets you know when it’s time to swap or clean your filters. Check out their website for more information.