When was the last time you gave your air conditioner some attention? If you’re like most people, it’s probably been a while. It’s easy to forget about your AC system until something goes wrong. But did you know that clogged AC coils could be the sneaky reason behind your high energy bills or poor cooling performance?
Your AC coils do a lot of the heavy lifting to keep your home comfortable. If they’re not in good shape, your air conditioner has to work harder, which can wear it out faster and even cause it to break down. This is why staying on top of things like AC Coil Cleaning is so important.
In this blog, we will discuss how to spot clogged AC coils, what you can do to fix them, and why keeping them clean makes all the difference.
How Do AC Coils Get Clogged?
First, what are AC coils, and why do they clog? Your air conditioner has two types of coils:
- Evaporator coils: These absorb heat from the air inside your home.
- Condenser coils: These release the heat outside.
Over time, dirt, dust, and even mold can build up on these coils. This is especially common if your AC filter isn’t replaced regularly or if there’s a lot of dust in your environment. Once these coils get dirty, they can’t do their job properly, and your entire AC system takes the hit.
How to Tell if Your Coils Are Clogged
Here are some common signs that your AC coils may need attention:
- Reduced cooling performance: If your AC isn’t cooling your home as effectively as before, clogged coils could be the cause. Dirt buildup makes it harder for the coils to absorb and release heat, lowering efficiency.
- Higher energy bills: A struggling AC uses more electricity. If your energy bills are climbing but your usage hasn’t changed, it might be time to inspect the coils.
- Weak airflow: Poor airflow from your vents can indicate that the coils are dirty and obstructing proper air circulation.
- Unusual noises: Strange sounds from your unit can be a warning sign that something is wrong, including dirty coils.
- Frost on evaporator coils: Frost buildup might seem counterintuitive for a cooling system, but it’s a clear sign of trouble. Dirty coils can cause the system to freeze, disrupting performance.
These issues can quickly increase unless addressed, so regular maintenance is essential to avoid bigger problems.
What Happens If You Don’t Clean Your Coils?
Ignoring clogged coils can lead to bigger problems. Your air conditioner will have to work harder to keep your home cool, increasing your energy bills and putting more strain on the system. Over time, this can shorten the lifespan of your AC unit.
Dirty coils can also create a breeding ground for mold and bacteria, which can impact your indoor air quality. This is something to avoid if you or your family members have allergies or respiratory issues.
In extreme cases, clogged coils can cause the compressor to fail. The compressor is one of the most expensive parts of an air conditioner, so replacing it isn’t cheap. Regular AC Coil Cleaning can prevent all of this worry.
Also Read: Why Neglecting Coil Cleaning Can Lead to Expensive Repairs?
Cleaning AC Coils: DIY or Professional Help?
Cleaning your AC coils might seem straightforward, but it requires some expertise. If you’re a hands-on homeowner, you can try it yourself with the right tools and precautions.
To clean the coils, start by turning off the power to the AC unit. Remove the outer panel to access the coils and gently brush off loose Dust.
You can also use a foaming coil cleaner to break down grime and then rinse it with water. For outdoor condenser units, a garden hose works well, but make sure you don’t use high pressure, as it can damage the fins.
If this feels overwhelming or you’re not comfortable opening up your AC unit, don’t worry. Professional AC Coil Cleaning services are widely available. Experts have the tools and experience to clean the coils thoroughly without damaging the system. They can also spot other potential issues while they’re at it, saving you from future headaches.
How to Maintain Coils for Efficiency
Regular maintenance is key to preventing clogged coils. A simple step like changing your air filter every one to three months can go a long way in keeping your system clean. If you have pets or live in a dusty area, you might need to change it more often.
Another tip is to keep the area around your outdoor condenser unit free of dust. Trim back plants and remove any leaves or grass clippings that could get inside.
Scheduling routine maintenance with a professional is one of the best things you can do for your AC system. During these visits, a technician will inspect and clean the coils, check the refrigerant levels, and make sure everything is running smoothly. Investing in regular maintenance can save you money in the long run by preventing costly repairs or even a full system replacement.
At Alpha Clean Air, we specialize in AC Coil Cleaning and comprehensive maintenance to keep your system running at its best. If you’re dealing with poor cooling, rising energy bills, or any other AC issues, our team is here to help.
Don’t let clogged coils ruin your summer comfort or your budget. Call us today to schedule a service and experience the difference clean coils can make.
