How To Clean Coils In Your HVAC System?

Clean the coils of your HVAC system for efficient running and a longer lifespan. To do this, turn off the HVAC, access the coils, remove the surface debris, add a coil cleaner, rinse the coils, and reassemble. Proper maintenance and regular HVAC service ensure the system works effectively and saves energy, reducing utility costs.

Steps To Clean Coils In Your HVAC System

Dirt and debris may build up on the coils over time, disturbing the airflow and reducing overall system efficiency. Follow these steps to clean your coils to ensure optimal system function.

Step 1: Turn Off the HVAC System 

Firstly, one should completely turn off the HVAC system before entering the cleaning procedure. This would protect the system from electrical hazards and prevent it from running during cleaning. Find the breaker panel attached to the system and switch off the power with the power switch. Additionally, this will ensure that the system does not accidentally turn itself back on. 

Step 2: Access the Coils

Once the system is off, you can now safely access the coils. The two common coils in a typical HVAC system are evaporator and condenser coils. The evaporator coils are inside the indoor unit, usually in the air handler, whereas the condenser coils are in the outdoor unit. Access to the coils may require taking a few screws or removing a panel. Remove all protective covers very carefully and save the screws.

Step 3: Remove Surface Debris

The first cleaning stage for coils is to remove loose debris away from the coils. This may include fallen leaves, twigs, or dirt that collects on the surface of outdoor condenser coils. Brush these away gently with a soft brush or vacuum using the brush attachment without causing any damage to the coils. 

Step 4: Add a Coil Cleaner 

Apply a coil cleaner after removing the surface debris. Coil cleaners are formulations designed to dissolve the grime, grease, and other residue that stick to the coils. This can be either foaming or non-foaming coil cleaners. 

The foaming coil cleaner is preferable as the foam can penetrate well into the coil for efficient cleaning. Spray it generously all over the coils to cover the entire surface area. Allow the cleaner to sit for 10-15 minutes. This will help dissolve the hard buildup, which is not removable by a brush or a vacuum.

Step 5: Rinse the Coils

It’s time to rinse the coils to remove the loosened debris and chemical residues. Use a garden hose to gently rinse the cleaner for outdoor condenser coils. Keep it at low pressure so you do not bend the coil fins. 

A spray bottle filled with water or a coil cleaning solution is usually sufficient for indoor coils. Don’t allow excess water to trickle down into your electrical components. Rinse thoroughly to ensure no residue sticks around to interfere with the airflow or cooling efficiency of the system.

Step 6: Straighten Bent Coil Fins

While cleaning, you will likely find some coil fins bent. Bent fins inhibit airflow and decrease your system’s efficiency. Use a fin comb, a special tool for your delicate aluminum fins, to straighten them. Pass the comb gently along the coil fins while aligning them back into position.

Step 7: Re-assemble the System  

Now that the coils are clean, you can start putting it back together. Put the protective panels or covers you removed, securing them with the screws. Ensure everything is fine before turning on the power supply to the system. Once you have assembled everything, start the HVAC and let it run for a few minutes to ensure it works well. 

Why Do You Clean HVAC Coils?

• Improves Energy Efficiency: Dirty coils make your HVAC system work harder to cool or heat the air, naturally increasing energy consumption. Clean coils allow the system to run more smoothly and reduce the total amount of energy consumed.
• Enhances Cooling and Heating: Coils covered by dirt, dust, or other particulate matter create resistance to airflow and heat transfer, thus reducing the system’s ability to maintain desired indoor temperatures.
• Extends System Lifespan: Regular cleaning of coils prevents extra wear on system parts, thus extending their lifespan. Maintaining the HVAC system can also increase its lifespan with affordable replacements.
• Prevent Overheating of the System: Dirty coils cause your system to overheat and freeze, possibly leading to system breakdowns or complete shutdown. Cleaning coils prevents these incidents by ensuring smooth airflow and heat exchange.

Conclusion

Cleaning your HVAC coils is a simple task but important in maintaining the system, which can enhance its efficiency and extend its life. It involves switching off the system, accessing the coils, removing surface debris, applying coil cleaner, rinsing, straightening bent fins, cleaning the surrounding area, and finally reassembling and starting up again. This regular HVAC service ensures that your system works efficiently, saves cooling power, and helps you reduce your energy bills. 

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