How to Clean the Coil in My AC Unit
Regular cleaning of an air conditioner's coils can make it run more efficiently, and prevent mold from growing in the system. AC units have two sets of coils, evaporator coils and condenser coils. Evaporator coils are on the inside part of the unit, while condenser coils can be found on the outside. They are made of the same material and built the same way, so they can be cleaned with the same techniques. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- Vacuum
- Mild detergent or AC coil cleaner
- Microfiber cloth
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Instructions
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1
Open the panel that covers the evaporator coils on the inside unit. On window ACs, this panel is on the front and will either have screws holding it place or latches that can be popped off. On central air systems, the panel is near where the duct connects to the unit. The AC filter will be in front of the coils, so you will have to slide it out and set it aside.
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2
Run a vacuum hose attachment slowly over the coils. Doing this will remove any loose dust or debris.
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3
Soak a microfiber cloth in a bucket of water mixed with either dishwashing or laundry detergent. You may also use an AC coil cleaner. Most of these cleaners are foam cleaners that you spray on and allow to sit for several minutes. AC coil cleaning products are available at hardware stores, and are more suitable when you need heavy duty cleaning.
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4
Slowly wipe the coils with the cloth to clean them. Even if you use a foam cleaner, it is a good idea to wipe the coils after the cleaner has done its job, so that no chemicals are left on the AC coils.
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Repeat the process for the condenser coils located on the outside unit. There won't be a filter covering these, but there may be a grate that you will need to unscrew to access the condenser coils.
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Tips & Warnings
While you have the filter removed, you can clean it by setting it in the sink and running cold water over it. If it is an old filter, you should replace it to maximize your AC's efficiency.
The AC coils are made of aluminum. If you use products besides ones that are labeled as AC coil cleaner, be sure that they do not contain overly caustic chemicals that may damage your AC coils. Heavy-duty products such as industrial strength degreasers, ammonia, and bleach are likely to either damage or stain the coils on an AC.
