How to Clean Air Conditioner Coils

Categories: Air Conditioning

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Understanding the Importance of Clean AC Coils

If you’ve been wondering how to clean air conditioner coils, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common maintenance tasks homeowners consider when their cooling system isn’t working as efficiently as it should. Dirty coils can reduce airflow, strain the system, and spike your energy bills. At Lochard HVAC, Plumbing, and Service, we know how critical it is to keep your AC system in top shape—especially during the hottest months in places like Troy, Sidney, Celina, Bellefontaine, Piqua, and Tipp City.

Why Clean Air Conditioner Coils Matter

Your air conditioner has two main coils: the evaporator coil inside your home and the condenser coil in the outdoor unit. These coils play a crucial role in heat exchange, which allows your AC to cool your home. When they’re dirty, the system works harder, causing wear and tear and higher utility bills.

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Routine air conditioning maintenance ensures your system stays clean and efficient.

How to Clean Air Conditioner Coils: Step-by-Step

While we always recommend calling in a professional for a deep clean, homeowners can take a few simple steps to maintain coil cleanliness between tune-ups.

1. Turn Off Power to the Unit
Safety first—always shut off the power at the disconnect box or circuit breaker.

2. Remove Debris from the Outdoor Unit
Clear away leaves, grass, and dirt. Use a soft brush to gently remove buildup on the condenser coil fins.

3. Spray the Coils
Apply a no-rinse coil cleaner or a mild detergent and water mix. Let it sit, then gently rinse with a garden hose. Be careful not to bend the fins.

4. Clean the Evaporator Coil Inside
Accessing this coil is more complex. If you’re unsure, leave it to our team. We handle AC coil cleaning and more during routine system maintenance.

When to Call a Professional

If you’re noticing reduced cooling or your unit hasn’t been cleaned in over a year, it’s best to schedule professional service. At Lochard HVAC, Plumbing, and Service, our licensed techs can inspect, clean, and optimize your AC system for peak performance. We also provide complete HVAC services that extend the lifespan of your system.

Serving Ohio with Quality HVAC Service

From West Milton and New Bremen to Anna, Jackson Center, Degraff, and Quincy, our team provides prompt, professional service you can trust. Whether it’s routine AC maintenance or emergency repairs, we’re proud to serve our community with integrity and expertise.

Ready to Get Your AC Back on Track?

Don’t let dirty coils drain your comfort and energy. Schedule your AC maintenance with Lochard HVAC, Plumbing, and Service today. Our experienced technicians are here to keep your system running smoothly and efficiently.

Schedule AC service or call us today to book your appointment.

FAQs

Can I clean my air conditioner coils myself?

Yes, you can clean your air conditioner coils yourself—especially the outdoor condenser coils. Using a soft brush to remove debris and a coil-safe cleaner can help maintain efficiency. However, indoor evaporator coils are harder to access and best left to HVAC professionals to avoid damaging the system or missing hidden issues that affect performance.

Is it okay to spray water on your air conditioner while running?

You can lightly spray your outdoor AC unit with water to rinse off dust and debris, but it’s best to do this while the unit is off. Spraying water directly on your air conditioner while it’s running could affect electrical components or disrupt normal operation. Always turn off power before cleaning coils or the surrounding unit.

What not to clean AC coils with?

Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or acidic cleaners when cleaning air conditioner coils. These substances can corrode the aluminum fins or copper tubing, leading to costly damage. Also, don’t use high-pressure washers, as they can bend or crush the coil fins, reducing airflow and efficiency.

Does cleaning coils make AC colder?

Absolutely—cleaning dirty AC coils improves heat transfer, allowing your system to cool your home more effectively. When evaporator and condenser coils are clogged with dirt or debris, your system works harder, often blowing warmer air or struggling to reach the set temperature. Clean coils restore optimal performance and help reduce energy costs.

Can I use Dawn dish soap on my AC coils?

Yes, a mild detergent like Dawn dish soap diluted with water can be used to clean AC coils, especially if you don’t have a commercial coil cleaner. Just mix a few drops with warm water, apply gently with a spray bottle, let it sit, and then rinse thoroughly. Be sure not to soak any electrical components or use too much water.

Need professional help maintaining your AC system? Schedule your next AC tune-up with Lochard HVAC, Plumbing, and Service to keep your cooling system running at peak efficiency.