Every year, there are more than 1,200 heat-related deaths in the United States. Sadly, many of these are preventable.
Reliable air conditioning is not only a matter of comfort and convenience but also of safety. The most important thing to ensure this is regular air conditioning upkeep, including cleaning AC coils.
How often should you do so? That depends on several factors.
This article covers those variables. Keep reading to learn how to ensure your AC coils and system are clean and working properly.
What Are AC Coils?
AC coils are a central component of HVAC systems. They play a critical role in the heat exchange process, which results in cool air production for the building. There are two main types of AC coils: evaporator and condenser coils.
Evaporator coils are located inside the air handler. They contain refrigerant that absorbs heat from air pulled through intakes in the building.
This leaves cool air behind, sent back out through ducts into the building. It also causes the refrigerant to evaporate into a gas, then travels to the outdoor unit, where the condenser is located.
The refrigerant releases the absorbed heat to the outside air in the condenser coils. This turns (or “condenses”) the refrigerant back into a liquid. It then returns to the evaporator coil to repeat the cycle.
Why Is Cleaning AC Coils Needed?
As AC coils accumulate dust, they become less efficient. This makes the heat exchange process less reliable, meaning your AC system has to work harder to produce the same amount of cool air.
That results in higher energy bills. It also puts greater strain on your system, unnecessarily diminishing its lifespan.
In extreme cases, dirty AC coils cannot perform their intended function at all. This can keep refrigerant in evaporator coils from absorbing heat, leading to coil freezing. A dirty condenser coil can cause the refrigerant to retain too much heat, leading to overheating and potential harm to the system.
How Often Should You Clean AC Coils?
Generally, you should have your evaporator and condenser coils cleaned at least once a year. Cleaning AC coils twice a year will be enough to ensure they are operating as they should.
Several factors can influence this frequency. One is how much you use your AC. If you live in a warmer climate where your AC runs a lot, you may consider scheduling cleaning before and after the hot summer months.
If you live in an environment with a lot of dust, pollen, or pet hair, cleaning air conditioner coils more frequently may be warranted. While your AC filter will trap some of this particulate matter, there is a chance that it will accumulate at a faster rate on your AC coils.
Find HVAC Coil Cleaning Tips or Service Near You
Now that you understand how often cleaning AC coils is needed, you can implement an AC maintenance schedule. An experienced technician can further advise you on the right setup for your home.
At Apex Clean Air, we restore your HVAC systems to their new conditions through innovative technologies and expertise. This produces better home cooling efficiency, lower utility bills, and cleaner air. Reach out to us today to schedule service.
