How to Clean HVAC Coils

HVAC systems need regular maintenance to keep them functioning in optimal condition. With the many components within the unit to maintain, you should never forget about the HVAC coils. These need to function efficiently because they provide the cooling and heating for buildings. However, if you want to do it yourself, there’s a proper way to clean HVAC coils.

Where Are the HVAC Coils Located?

You can usually find coils inside the air handler unit or the external condenser unit of your HVAC system. The evaporator coil is usually situated inside the air handler or furnace, often near the blower fan, where it absorbs heat from the indoor air. On the other hand, you can find the condenser coil in the outdoor unit, which releases the absorbed heat into the outside air.

How to Clean HVAC Coils Inside and Outside

Cleaning dirty coils is an essential maintenance task that can significantly improve the efficiency and lifespan of your HVAC system. Here is a step-by-step guide to ensure you do it correctly:

1. Turn Off the HVAC System

Before the coil cleaning process, ensure the HVAC system is turned off. It is crucial for your safety and to prevent any electrical mishaps.

2. Access the Coils

Evaporator Coils

These are usually found inside the air handler. You may need to remove a few screws and panels to access them. Be gentle to avoid damaging internal components.

Condenser Coils

These are located in the outdoor unit. To remove the dirty condenser coil, you might need to remove the outer casing or protective grill.

3. Initial Inspection and Debris Removal

Use a flashlight to inspect the dirty coils for mold or dirt buildup. Remove any loose debris using a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment. Be cautious not to bend or damage the delicate fins on the coils.

4. Apply a Coil Cleaner

Use a commercial coil cleaner suitable for your type of coils, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.

• For evaporator coils, spray the cleaner directly onto the coils and allow it to sit for the recommended time to break down the accumulated grime.
• You may need to use a more heavy-duty cleaner for condenser coils because they are exposed to outdoor elements.

5. Rinse the Coils

• For evaporator coils, you can use a pump sprayer with water to rinse off the cleaner and dissolve dirt.
• For those still learning how to clean HVAC condenser coils, a garden hose with a gentle spray setting is enough to rinse the coils thoroughly from the inside out, ensuring no residue is left behind.

6. Reassemble the Unit

Once the clean coils are dry, reassemble the access panels and any other components you removed. Ensure that all screws and fittings are securely in place.

7. Turn the System Back On

After verifying everything is reassembled correctly, turn your HVAC system back on and check for proper operation.

8. Regular Maintenance

Aim to clean your HVAC coils at least once a year. However, if you live in a particularly dusty or polluted area, you might need to perform this task more frequently.

Types of HVAC Coils

Evaporator Coils

Evaporator coils play a part in the cooling process. They absorb heat from the indoor air, allowing the refrigerant inside the coils to evaporate and cool the surrounding air.

• Function. As warm air from inside the building blows over the coils, the refrigerant absorbs the heat, cooling the air before it is circulated back into the space.
• Maintenance. Since these coils are indoors, they can accumulate dust and grime. Regular cleaning is necessary to maintain efficiency, typically using a commercial coil cleaner and a pump sprayer for rinsing.

Condenser Coils

Condenser coils release the heat absorbed by the evaporator coils into the outside air.

• Function. The refrigerant, carrying the absorbed heat, is compressed and flows through the condenser coils, releasing the heat into the external environment. Then, the refrigerant cools down and turns back into a liquid state.
• Maintenance. These coils are exposed to outdoor elements like dirt, leaves, and debris, requiring more robust cleaning methods. After applying a suitable coil cleaner, you can use a garden hose with a soft spray setting to remove debris.

Reversing Coils

Reversing coils are used in heat pump systems. Depending on the space’s heating or cooling demand, they can function as evaporator or condenser coils.

• Function. In cooling mode, they operate as evaporator coils, absorbing indoor heat. In heating mode, they reverse roles to act as condenser coils, absorbing heat from the outside and releasing it indoors.
• Maintenance. Maintenance of reversing coils involves ensuring they are clean and free from obstructions. Cleaning procedures are similar to those for evaporator and condenser coils.

Hot Water Coils

Common in HVAC systems that provide both heating and cooling, hot water coils are used for space heating.

• Function. Hot water flows through these coils, and as air passes over them, the air is heated and circulated into the building, providing warmth during colder months.
• Maintenance. These coils should be regularly inspected for scale buildup and corrosion and cleaned to maintain optimal airflow and heat transfer. Flushing with clean water or using a descaling solution might be necessary for maintaining cleanliness.

How Often Should HVAC Coils Be Cleaned?

HVAC coils should typically be cleaned at least once a year to maintain optimal system performance and efficiency. However, the frequency may depend on the type of equipment, the environment in which it operates, and usage patterns. For example, areas with high dust or pollen levels or in industrial settings where contaminants are more prevalent require frequent cleaning—possibly every six months.

Safety Tips to Remember When Cleaning HVAC Coils

• Unplug or Turn Off the Power. Always ensure the HVAC system is completely shut down before starting maintenance work. This will prevent electrical shocks or accidents.
• Use Protective Gear. Before learning how to clean HVAC evaporator coils, you must wear gloves and safety goggles to protect your hands and eyes from harsh chemicals and debris that may come off during the cleaning process.
• Work in a Well-Ventilated Area. If you use chemicals to clean the coils, ensure the area is well-ventilated to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.
• Follow Manufacturer Instructions. Use only the recommended coil cleaners and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging the coils or voiding your warranty.
• Handle Components With Care. Some HVAC components are fragile. Take extra caution when disassembling and reassembling parts to avoid damaging them.
• Avoid Excessive Water Pressure. When rinsing the coils, use gentle water pressure to avoid bending the delicate fins. High-pressure water can damage and reduce the coil’s efficiency.
• Check for Damage. During the cleaning process, inspect the coils and other components for signs of damage or wear and tear. Address issues you find right away to prevent future problems.
• Dispose of Waste Properly. Dispose of any waste materials, including used coil cleaner and debris, according to local regulations to ensure environmental safety.

Achieve Cleaner HVAC Coils With Proper Cleaning and Maintenance Techniques

Never let HVAC coils go bad by keeping them clean and well-maintained. Annual cleaning and maintenance can go a long way in ensuring your HVAC system runs efficiently, saving you money on energy bills. By following these tips for cleaning HVAC coils, you can maintain good indoor air quality and extend the life of your HVAC equipment.

If you need professional maintenance on your HVAC coils, Elevate Home Services can help. Our team has years of experience in HVAC coil maintenance and will always give you excellent cooling and heating.

Contact us right away if you have HVAC coils that need expert maintenance.