Everyone should have their air conditioner tuned-up each year before (or during) summer. Annual tune-ups ensure your system is running properly and efficiently. Even if it isn't having any noticeable issues, a tune-up will catch any small problems before they get worse. A tune-up from ECI Comfort will include things like cleaning or changing the air filter, tightening electrical connections, checking safety controls, and cleaning the condenser coils.
However, if you do not schedule annual maintenance, you may start to notice clear signs that your condenser coil needs to be cleaned. So what are the benefits of having them cleaned (and having the whole tune-up performed)? And what are some signs that you need the maintenance done? Find out below.
What are Air Conditioner Coils?
Your AC unit has two coils: the evaporator coil and the condenser coil. The evaporator coil is located in the indoor unit (air handler) and works to absorb the heat from your home. The condenser coil is located in the outdoor unit (condenser) and works to release the excess heat outside. Both have refrigerant running through them.
If your coils are dirty, there's essentially an extra layer between the air blowing over the coils and the refrigerant inside that absorbs and releases heat. This layer of dirt acts like an insulator and makes the transfer of heat less effective.
How does the condenser coil get dirty?
There are various ways that dirt and grime can make their way into your HVAC unit. Dirt, foliage, and other natural debris can build up on the coil fairly easily. If your house is located near a street, it's exposed to exhaust which can build up as well.
Benefits of Keeping Your AC Coils Clean
Cleaning your condenser coil and keeping up with AC maintenance ensures peak performance and saves you money on energy expenses. If your system isn't able to work at maximum efficiency due to issues like dirty coils, it will have to work harder to produce air and can cost you more money. On the same note, a system running at maximum capacity will produce more cool air and keep you comfortable all summer. 
On top of this, keeping the entire system clean and running efficiently will prevent costly repairs that may occur by letting any small problems get worse. It will also decrease the wear on your unit and extend the life of your HVAC system.
On top of this, keeping the entire system clean and running efficiently will prevent costly repairs that may occur by letting any small problems get worse. It will also decrease the wear on your unit and extend the life of your HVAC system.Lastly, clean condenser coils will improve your home's indoor air quality. Dirty cooling coils have the right conditions for growth of contaminants such as mold and bacteria, which can eventually find their way indoors. Cleaning the condenser coil eliminates this possibility and keeps your family safe and healthy.
Signs You Need to Clean Your Condenser Coil
There a few indications that you may need to clean your condenser coil. If you notice that your system isn't running as well as it used to (i.e. not blowing enough cool air) or that your energy bills are increasing, this may point to unkempt HVAC unit.
Additionally, there are some common visible signs to take note of. If you notice corrosion on the coils or ice forming around the condenser unit, you should call your local HVAC contractor to have the unit inspected and cleaned.
In order to function properly, air conditioners rely on air flowing through the system. Too little airflow reduces the temperature, causing the AC unit to freeze up. Airflow can be restricted by things like dirty air filters or coils. That's why keeping your HVAC system clean is vital to its function and your comfort.
If you live in the Delaware Valley/Greater Philadelphia area and would like to find comfort within your home, visit our website or give us a call at 215 - 245 - 3200 to learn more.
