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How often should you schedule AC coil cleaning? It’s one of those details we often forget in our property maintenance checklist.
As the go-to crew for certified AC repair in Sanibel Island, FL, we at Coral Air Conditioning know how to plan the optimal timeframe. Keep reading to learn more.
What Are AC Coils?
Evaporator coils are the slim metal tubes in a cooling system that house refrigerant. As warm air passes over these channels, the refrigerant inside them turns from a liquid to a gas, which effectively pulls heat and moisture out of the air. It’s how you get crisp, cold interiors even in Sanibel Island’s perpetually tropical weather.
Condenser coils in the outdoor unit have a different job. They release the heat the system removed from your interiors. That’s why they’re hot to the touch.
The Optimal AC Coil Cleaning Routine in Sanibel Island, FL
Annual cleaning often does the trick for most setups, but don’t treat this as a hard rule. Adjust the frequency based on:
- Usage: Many Sanibel Island residents run their cooling systems all year, and regular use means more wear. Check your coils more frequently when you follow the same routine.
- Surroundings: The outdoor unit should have a clearance of at least two feet. Shrubs, trees, and other vegetation drop leaves, pollen, and dust that clog the system faster.
- Weather: How often should you schedule AC coil cleaning after a year of unusually strong storms? Windy weather brings dirt, sand, and other debris, so always keep an eye on the forecast.
Why Refresh Your Coils in the First Place?
Coils play a major role in the cooling process. Their condition will impact your air conditioning in more ways than one.
Cooling Performance
Do you have random warm spots throughout your property or muggy, uncomfortable rooms? Grime-covered coils will struggle to absorb and dissipate heat effectively. The air conditioner might not even reach the set temperature.
Appliance Longevity
When one component struggles, others follow suit. Poorly maintained coils stress other parts, like the compressor, which may overheat and ultimately fail. It’s a chain reaction.
Treat the entire system as a whole and it will serve you well for years. Most modern air conditioners last up to 15 years through proper preventive maintenance.
Energy Usage
Airflow restriction from dirt buildup makes your unit work harder. It needs more power to deliver the same cooling effect.
How often should you schedule AC coil cleaning for peak efficiency? Compare your recent electricity bills. A spike in costs with no change in usage habits signals the need for a refresh.
Fewer Repairs
Filthy coils collect and absorb moisture that eventually leads to rust and corrosion. This means more expensive fixes down the line.
Why wait for your wallet to take a hit? Regular upkeep is much more affordable in the long run. It’s like brushing your teeth to avoid cavities.
How To Maintain Your AC Coils
AC coils and the metal fins surrounding them are fairly delicate. It’s better to bring in a specialist to handle the cleaning. If you prefer to try this task yourself, follow these steps.
Make Preparations
Buy a soft bristle brush, a can of compressed air, and some gentle detergent when you don’t have some on hand. Protective gloves help you avoid contact with sharp edges.
Head to your breaker box next and switch off the power to your AC unit. Do you have a voltage tester? Use it to confirm that the unit no longer has power for good measure.
Remove Larger Debris
Review your owner’s manual for disassembly instructions. Carefully remove the panels or covers from the outdoor unit as described. You might find leaves, twigs, and dirt trapped inside.
Pick out the bigger loose debris by hand and use compressed air to blow out the smaller bits. Avoid bending the coils!
Soak and Rinse
Liberally apply your chosen solution on the coils and let it sit for several minutes. It should loosen up deep-seated contaminants and kill present organic growth. Wash everything with a garden hose (preferably outfitted with a wide spray nozzle) until no residue remains.
Dependable AC Maintenance Crew in Sanibel Island, FL
How often should you schedule AC coil cleaning? Coral Air Conditioning always has you covered. We would love to evaluate your setup and offer tailor-fit advice.
Contact us today and learn more!
