Coil Cleaning Helps to Improve the AC Unit!
With so much on a homeowner’s plate, many don’t think about the coils in the air conditioning unit or even know they exist or their purpose. However, understanding what AC coils are and having them maintained and cleaned can help the longevity of a home’s cooling system. It can also give homeowners peace of mind that their air conditioner will likely not have surprise issues in the coming months.
So what are AC coils, how does a person properly care for them, and why do they affect the air conditioner so heavily? Read on to find out.
Understanding Evaporator Coils
The first coils are located inside the home as an attachment to the furnace or air handler. Evaporator coils are the main reason air conditioners can cool the air. As the air conditioner kicks on and the air begins to move through the vents to cool the home, the air must first pass through the evaporator coils. As it does, the coils act to absorb all extra heat and moisture from the air.
Over time, the coils will build up with dust and dander from the particles in the flowing air, and without proper cleaning, the AC unit will have to work twice as hard to keep the house at the homeowner’s desired temperature.
Outdoor Condenser/Compressor Coils
Once the air is absorbed through the evaporator coils indoors, excess heat from the air is transferred to the outside portion of the home's cooling system to be expelled. This is done by the compressor coils and the condenser coils.The compressor coil holds refrigerant in the unit. Refrigerant is the way the coils absorb excess heat. So, as the refrigerant exits the home, it's hot and turned to gas by the compressor coils. The compressor coils then send the heated gas to the condenser coils, dispelling the hot air/gas outside. The refrigerant then returns to the inside locks to absorb more heat and begin the process again.
These coils, over time, can get dirty as storms and the outside world bring leaves and other unwanted debris into them. The trash can begin to interfere with the efficiency of the processes. Once the coils have too much build-up, the air conditioner will be straining to keep up with its workload.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Professional cleaning of AC coils is recommended alongside annual air conditioner maintenance. Having them done simultaneously can save time and money for homeowners and ensure the air conditioner is running at optimal speed and efficiency.
The cleaning process of the coils is pretty simple for technicians. Larger debris will be removed by hand or with a special brush designed for the waves, and a self-rinsing coil cleanser will be sprayed across the coils. This cleanser is designed to evaporate as the air conditioner runs, which will cause no harm to families in the household or the air conditioner.
Once the coils are cleared and cleaned, a proper cooling system inspection will occur. The professional will warn homeowners of any issues they spot and fix them before they become more significant issues down the road. Having the coils cleaned yearly can guarantee that the cooling system is running at its maximum efficiency, helping to lower cooling costs.
About Hancock & Son Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning
Hancock & Son Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning are a locally owned and operated company proudly serving Salisbury, MD, and the Eastern Shore. They provide honest pricing, expert workmanship, personalized options, and 24/7 emergency service. Call them today for air conditioning services in Salisbury, MD.
