If your AC isn’t cooling like it used to, the coils might be the problem. We see it all the time. Most homeowners don’t even think about their coils until the system stops working right. The truth is, knowing how to clean AC coils can save you money, improve comfort, and help your unit last longer. At Sub Zero Temp Control, we’ve seen how something as simple as clean coils can make a huge difference.
Why Clean AC Coils Make a Difference
The coils are where the real cooling happens. They’re in charge of pulling heat out of your air and letting your system send cool air back into the house. But when those coils are covered in dirt, dust, or pet hair, they can’t do their job. Your AC keeps running, but it struggles to keep up.
The Department of Energy notes that dirty coils make your system work harder and increase energy use. In short, keeping coils clean helps you stay cool and keeps your bills lower. That’s why so many families in Vancouver and the surrounding areas rely on Sub Zero Temp Control to keep their systems efficient year-round.
Safety First: How to Clean AC Coils Without Risk
Before we get into the steps, let’s talk safety. Always cut the power before you open the system. We’ve had plenty of calls from homeowners who skipped that step and ended up with a bigger problem than just dirty coils. It only takes a few seconds to flip the breaker, and it could save you from a dangerous mistake.
Tools You’ll Need for Cleaning
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Screwdriver to open panels
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Soft brush or coil brush
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Vacuum with brush attachment
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Coil cleaner spray or mild soap
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Gloves and protective glasses
That’s all you need. No special tools required.
Step 1: Find the Coils
If you want to know how to clean AC coils, you first need to find them. Your system has two: the evaporator coil inside and the condenser coil outside. The evaporator coil sits behind an access panel on the indoor unit, while the condenser coil wraps around your outdoor system.
Step 2: Clear Loose Debris
Start with the easy stuff. Use a soft brush or a vacuum to remove dirt, dust, or leaves. Be careful with the fins—they bend easily, and bent fins block airflow. We’ve had to repair plenty of systems after someone got too aggressive with cleaning. This is why many homeowners choose to schedule air conditioner service with us instead of tackling it alone.
Step 3: Apply Coil Cleaner
The next step in how to clean AC coils is using the cleaner itself. Spray a no-rinse coil cleaner evenly across the coils. It will foam up and loosen grime on its own. ENERGY STAR stresses the importance of keeping coils clean for efficiency and longer system life. We couldn’t agree more.
Step 4: Rinse If Needed
Some cleaners don’t require rinsing, but others do. If yours calls for water, go gentle. A garden sprayer works fine. Skip the pressure washer—it’ll crush the fins and leave you with a bigger repair bill.
Step 5: Reassemble and Test
Once everything’s dry, reattach the panels and restore power. Let the system run. If it sounds steady and starts cooling better, you did it right. Simple fix. Big payoff.
How to Clean AC Coils: When DIY Isn’t Enough
Even if you know how to clean AC coils, sometimes it’s better to let a pro handle it. If there’s heavy grime, ice buildup, or signs of a refrigerant leak, a brush and cleaner won’t cut it. That’s when our team at Sub Zero Temp Control steps in. We’ve got the equipment to clean deeply without damaging delicate parts and can spot bigger issues before they lead to breakdowns.
How Often Should Coils Be Cleaned?
Most people can get away with cleaning once a year. But let’s be honest—it depends. Got pets? Allergies? Live near a busy road, farmland, or construction? You’ll probably need it more often. And don’t forget, changing filters on time keeps coils cleaner for longer.
During seasonal tune-ups, we always include coil cleaning as part of the visit. It’s one of those little tasks that prevent major repairs later.
Extra Tips for Keeping Coils Clean Longer
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Replace filters every one to three months
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Keep outdoor units clear of weeds, grass, and leaves
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Seal air leaks in ducts to prevent extra dust
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Schedule professional maintenance for peace of mind
Simple habits like these reduce the need for deep cleaning and keep your system efficient.
Final Thoughts on How to Clean AC Coils
Knowing how to clean AC coils gives you a head start on protecting your AC. Clean coils mean better airflow, lower bills, and fewer breakdowns. But when dirt, ice, or leaks make things too complicated, that’s when a professional should step in.
At Sub Zero Temp Control, we’re here to help homeowners keep their AC systems in top shape. If you’re in Vancouver, WA, or the surrounding areas, give us a call. Our team knows how to handle every part of your system, from coil cleaning to full-service repairs, so you can stay cool without stress.
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