Your air-conditioning system works tirelessly to keep your home comfortable during hot weather, and taking care of it helps it last for years. While most homeowners check common areas such as the filters or outdoor unit, property owners may sometimes overlook other AC parts, like the condenser coils. The problem with this is that your AC system relies on every piece to function correctly, and a dirty condenser coil can significantly hinder its performance.
Condenser coils are copper or aluminum tubes that form your air-conditioning system’s heat exchange process. These coils contain refrigerant that absorbs heat from inside your home and releases it to the outdoor air. Over time, condenser coils can collect dirt, dust, and debris, which creates a barrier between the refrigerant and the air. Ahead, explore the reasons you should clean your AC’s condenser coils.
Lowers Energy Bills
HVAC manufacturers design condenser coils to release heat absorbed from inside your home outdoors. However, when dirt and debris build up on the coils, they create an insulating layer and prevent proper heat transfer. This buildup forces your air conditioner to work harder to cool your home, consuming more energy and straining the system.
Over time, the extra work from your HVAC unit can lead to higher energy bills, as the harder your system works, the more energy it consumes. Even a slight reduction in efficiency caused by dirty coils can lead to energy waste over time, particularly during peak usage months (like summer). If left unresolved, the cumulative energy waste can strain household budgets further, especially as energy prices fluctuate.
When you regularly clean the condenser coils, you remove that debris and prevent it from insulating heat. Cleaner coils will run at optimal efficiency for maximum heat transfer and reduced energy waste.
Improves Cooling Performance
Like any appliance, the better you care for each area of your AC system, the more likely the components are to work correctly. Contaminated condenser coils reduce your air-conditioning system’s cooling capacity, leading to uneven temperature distribution throughout your home.
Blocked coils prevent proper airflow and reduce refrigerant efficiency, causing some rooms to stay warmer than others despite thermostat settings. This lessened efficiency can occur if dirt, debris, or other particles accumulate on the surface. Over time, these materials create a dense layer that blocks airflow and traps heat, making it harder for your AC to function efficiently.
Monitor your system for signs of reduced performance, such as diminished airflow from vents, frequent cycling on and off, or rooms that never reach the thermostat setting.
Quieter Operation
Keeping your coils clean can also reduce the noise level of your AC system. When condenser coils are free of debris, there’s less strain on the compressor and fan. A compressor that works harder to compensate for dirty coils often emits louder operational sounds, while an overworked fan can create excessive noise as it tries to push air through a clogged system.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
Dirty condenser coils create the perfect breeding ground for mold, bacteria, and other microorganisms due to the combination of moisture and organic materials. When these pathogens grow on condenser coils, they can easily hitch a ride on the air circulating through your HVAC system, spreading throughout your home.
Poor indoor air quality can cause coughing, sneezing, and nasal congestion, leaving you uncomfortable at home, especially if you’re sensitive to allergens. In uncommon but severe cases, continuous exposure to airborne contaminants may even contribute to long-term health complications for individuals with a compromised respiratory system.
Reduced Risk of AC Damage
Clean coils exchange heat more effectively, allowing your AC system to maintain stable temperatures without overworking. This higher degree of efficiency reduces strain on key components like the compressor, which is often an expensive part to replace.
Likewise, dirty coils slow down heat release, causing pressure and temperatures inside the system to rise. Reduced heat release elevates the likelihood of your air conditioner overheating or leaking refrigerant. In worst-case scenarios, compressor failure can even occur. Over time, the added stress can lead to motor breakdowns and electrical malfunctions, compounding repair costs and downtime.
Extended AC Lifespan
Given the price of HVAC systems, almost every homeowner wants theirs to last for as long as possible. However, when your air-conditioning system has to work much harder to expel heat due to dirty coils, it puts extra wear and tear on critical components. Ultimately, this wear can reduce your AC’s lifespan.
Cleaning condenser coils regularly extends your air-conditioning system’s operational life by reducing mechanical stress on critical components. When coils stay clean, the compressor, fan motor, and other parts operate within normal parameters.
Tips for Keeping Condenser Coils Clean
Understanding the reasons to clean your AC’s condenser coils is only the beginning. You also need to know how to clean coils properly. Here are some tips to help you keep these AC components sparkling clean.
Set a Schedule
Schedule at least one day per year to inspect this area of your HVAC system. However, if you live in an area with high pollen or humidity, you may have to examine the coils more often to double-check that they’re working correctly.
Maintain a Clear Area Around the Unit
Keep the area around your outdoor unit free of obstructions like tall grass, bushes, or leaves. Trim overgrown plants and clear debris to prevent dirt and organic material from getting trapped in the coils. Creating at least two feet of open space around the condenser unit allows proper airflow and reduces the chances of debris accumulation.
Contact a Professional for Annual Maintenance
Hiring a professional is the best way to ensure your condenser coils remain clean and work properly. Most technicians recommend yearly servicing; however, as we previously explained, this time frame can vary slightly. Talk with your HVAC technician about how often they recommend you clean the coils.
During a professional maintenance check, the HVAC technician will use their tools and expertise to thoroughly clean and remove debris from your condenser coils. They can also check other areas of your air conditioner for potential damage and recommend needed repairs.
Keep Your AC Functional
Style Crest has air-conditioning services for homeowners who need their units cleaned or repaired. Our team of experienced technicians can help with any AC-related issues, from cleaning coils to replacing filters and more. Don’t wait until the hot summer months to have your air conditioner checked! Contact us today to schedule a maintenance visit so your home stays cool and comfortable all year round.