How to Clean Ac Evaporator Coils Inside House

Keeping the AC evaporator coils clean is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your air conditioning system. Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on the coils, reducing the system’s ability to cool the air effectively. In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of cleaning the AC evaporator coils inside your house.

Why Clean AC Evaporator Coils?

Dirty evaporator coils can lead to reduced cooling capacity, increased energy consumption, and potential damage to the AC system. By cleaning the coils regularly, you can ensure that your AC operates at peak efficiency, providing optimal comfort while minimizing energy costs.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin cleaning the AC evaporator coils, gather the following tools and materials:

• Phillips screwdriver
• Fin comb
• Soft-bristled brush
• Gloves
• Safety goggles
• Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment
• Foaming coil cleaner
• Water spray bottle
• Towels

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning AC Evaporator Coils

Follow these steps to clean the AC evaporator coils inside your house:

Step 1: Turn Off The Power

Prior to starting any cleaning procedures, ensure that the power to the AC system is turned off. This can typically be done by switching off the circuit breaker or disconnecting the power supply to the unit.

Step 2: Access The Evaporator Coils

Locate the evaporator coil access panel, which is usually situated near the air handler or furnace. Use a screwdriver to remove the fasteners holding the panel in place. Once the panel is off, you will have clear access to the coils.

Step 3: Inspect The Coils

Take a close look at the coils to assess the level of dirt and debris buildup. If the buildup is minimal, a soft-bristled brush may be sufficient for cleaning. However, if the coils are heavily soiled, a foaming coil cleaner may be necessary.

Step 4: Clean The Coils

Using the soft-bristled brush, gently remove the loose debris from the coils. Be careful not to bend the delicate fins of the coils. For more stubborn dirt and grime, apply the foaming coil cleaner as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow the cleaner to penetrate and break down the buildup before rinsing it off.

Step 5: Straighten Bent Fins

Over time, the aluminum fins on the evaporator coils can become bent, hindering airflow. Utilize a fin comb to straighten any bent fins, ensuring unobstructed airflow through the coils.

Step 6: Vacuum The Area

Once the cleaning process is complete, use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any remaining debris from the area surrounding the coils and the drain pan.

Step 7: Reassemble And Restore Power

After ensuring that the coils are clean and the area is free of debris, reattach the evaporator coil access panel. Restore power to the AC system and allow it to run for a few minutes to ensure that everything is functioning properly.

Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance of your AC system can help prevent excessive buildup on the evaporator coils. Here are some tips to keep your coils clean:

• Change your air filter regularly to minimize dirt and dust accumulation on the coils.
• Keep the area around the air handler or furnace clean and free of debris.
• Schedule professional maintenance at least once a year to ensure thorough cleaning and inspection of the entire AC system.

Conclusion

Cleaning the AC evaporator coils inside your house is a relatively simple process that can have a significant impact on the performance and efficiency of your air conditioning system. By following the steps outlined in this guide and implementing regular maintenance practices, you can ensure that your AC operates at its best, providing reliable cooling for years to come.