It is crucial that you do not forget to carry out preventive maintenance on your AC system components during your annual spring-cleaning. Some of the components within your air conditioning in Franklin TN are hidden and out of sight. An example is the system’s evaporator coils, which, when dirty, can cause a significant drop in your unit’s functionality leading to frequent breakdowns. Below is some elementary information on evaporator coils as well as how to clean them.
Why ACs Need Evaporator Coils
Evaporator coils help capture the heat in your home and conduct the heat to the outside via condenser coils where it is released. The coils are made of copper and are aided by aluminum fins for improved heat transfer. The evaporator coils are usually found inside your home while the condenser coils are located outside your home.
Consequences of Dirty Coils
When condenser and evaporator coils get dirty, several problems are likely to occur, including:
- Reduced rate of heat transfer
- Cooling capacity of your AC system is reduced
- Energy consumption is high, leading to higher energy bills
- The operating temperatures and pressures are significantly high
- Increased wear and tear on your system that is likely to lead to reduced life expectancy, system malfunctioning and component damage
- Ice on the coil buildup
In general, your air conditioner will use about 40% more energy than a system with clean coils and the cooling efficiency is reduced by 30% or more.
How to Clean Evaporator Coils with Mild Detergents and Water
In place of using commercial cleaners, one option is to use warm water and mild detergent to get your condenser unit coils clean.
1. Mix your detergent and warm water into a spray bottle, garden sprayer or hand sprayer
2. Apply the solution to your unit’s evaporator coils
3. Allow your solution a moment to soak in and help loosen debris. You can reapply the solution if required
4. Wipe the loose material away using a brush and a soft cloth
When the evaporator coils are dirty enough to cause serious AC functioning problems, it is advisable to get in touch with a professional HVAC contractor. The technician will assess the damage and use his or her skills, training and equipment to get the evaporator coil clean and properly working in no time. Get in touch with Chiles Heating & Cooling professionals who provide services in plumbing, heating and air conditioning in Franklin TN.
