How to Clean AC Coils

Regular cleaning of your air-conditioning coils ensures efficiency.

Air-conditioning systems have two coils made of copper tubes with aluminum fins. The evaporator coil is located inside the unit, while the condenser coil is located outside. Air moving over the coils contains dirt, dust, moisture and other contaminates. This effects indoor air quality as the coils get dirty and operate less efficiently. Regular cleaning of the evaporator and condenser coils yields higher performance, results in cleaner air in your home, extends the overall life of your unit and saves on electricity costs.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Drop cloth
• Cleaning solution, spray
• Wet vac
• Garden hose
• Broom

Instructions

Evaporator Coils

1. Turn off all power to the unit at the main service panel.

2. Remove the side panel to access the evaporator coils.

3. Lay the drop cloth so it covers everything you do not want to get wet.

4. Spray the cleaning solution into the coils from the bottom to the top. Let it soak for five minutes.

5. Vacuum the cleaning solution and dirt from the coils with the wet vac.

6. Rinse the coils by spraying them with the garden hose in short bursts, working from the top to the bottom of the coils. Vacuum up any water with the wet vac.

7. Replace the side panel.

Condenser Coils

1. Turn off power to the unit at the main panel.

2. Remove any grass and lint from the fins with a broom.

3. Remove the guard grill to access the condenser coils.

4. Spray the cleaning solution into the coils. Let it soak for five to 10 minutes.

5. Flush the coils with water from the garden hose.

6. Replace the guard grill.

Tips & Warnings

• The drain pan of the evaporator cannot hold much water. Using the wet vac will prevent a watery mess in your closet.s

References

• Air Conditioning for Home Owners: Evaporator Coil Cleaning
• Saturn Resource Management: Cleaning Your Condenser Coil