Dirty AC Coils? Here’s How to Clean Them at Home
When the summer heat strikes, the comfort of a cool home is more than a luxury—it’s a necessity. But if your air conditioner isn’t keeping up, dirty coils might be to blame. How to clean air conditioner coils inside house? It’s a question many homeowners ask when their AC starts losing efficiency, blowing warmer air, or consuming more electricity than usual. Coil cleaning might sound technical, but with the right approach, it’s something you can understand and even do yourself. This article covers everything you need to know about identifying dirty coils, how to clean them, what tools you’ll need, and when to call in the House Cleaning Surrey professionals, like ProClean.
What Is AC And Why Cleaning AC Coils Is Important
Air conditioners work by moving heat out of your home and replacing it with cool, conditioned air. The key components that make this possible are the evaporator coils (inside your house) and the condenser coils (outside). These coils facilitate heat exchange—one absorbs heat, the other releases it. But when they get dirty, your entire AC system can suffer. Cleaning the coils is crucial for maintaining comfort, reducing energy usage, and extending the life of your air conditioning unit. If ignored, dirty coils can cause the system to work harder, increasing the risk of breakdowns and ballooning energy costs.
Your HVAC system relies on a delicate balance of airflow and heat exchange. When coils are clean, the refrigerant inside them can easily absorb and release heat, keeping your indoor temperature steady. But even a thin layer of dust, grime, or mold can:
- Reduce cooling capacity by 30% or more
- Increase energy usage by up to 40%
- Cause ice to form on the coils, restricting airflow
- Overload your compressor, leading to system failure
Over time, neglecting your AC coils can cost you far more than a simple cleaning—think full system replacement. Regular maintenance ensures better air quality, energy savings, and peace of mind during peak cooling seasons.
Signs of a Dirty Air Conditioner
Recognizing the warning signs early can help you take action before major damage sets in.
Physical Signs
- Dust and dirt on coils and fins: Easily visible when panels are removed.
- Clogged drain pan: Water buildup that isn’t draining properly.
- Mold or mildew: Especially around damp areas like the indoor evaporator coils.
- Blackened or gray air filters: Indicates airborne particulates are being trapped, or not being trapped effectively.
Performance Symptoms
- Inadequate cooling: Rooms feel warm even when the thermostat is set low.
- Musty odors: Caused by mold or bacterial growth inside the unit.
- Noisy operation: Rattling, buzzing, or grinding sounds from strain or blockages.
- Increased energy bills: Sudden jumps in usage often mean your unit is overcompensating.
- Frequent cycling: System turns on and off more often, indicating airflow issues.
How to Clean Air Conditioner Coils Inside House
Cleaning indoor evaporator coils might sound intimidating, but it’s a straightforward process with the right tools and safety steps.
1. Turn Off the Power
Always shut off the system at the thermostat and flip the circuit breaker. This protects you and the equipment from electrical hazards.
2. Locate and Open the Air Handler
Find the indoor unit (often in the attic, basement, or utility closet). Remove the access panel—typically near the base—to reveal the A-shaped evaporator coils.
3. Cleaning the Coils
- Use a soft nylon brush to gently lift off dust and debris.
- Apply a foaming coil cleaner and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. This breaks down grime.
- Gently brush again or wipe with a soft cloth.
- Rinse using a spray bottle of water—never a hose indoors.
- Pat dry with a towel or let air dry naturally.
- Use a fin comb to realign any bent fins for optimal airflow.
4. Replace the Air Filter
Your filter prevents most airborne particles from reaching the coils. If it’s dirty or clogged:
- Replace with the correct size and a MERV rating suitable for your household (typically 8–13).
- Change filters every 1–3 months depending on pets, allergies, and overall usage.
How to Clean Outdoor Condenser Coils
Your outdoor unit works just as hard and needs equal care.
- Turn off power at the disconnect box near the unit.
- Unscrew and remove the top fan and side panels.
- Manually clear away leaves, twigs, and debris.
- Use a shop vacuum with a brush attachment to clean the fins.
- Spray down the coils with water and a coil cleaner (or DIY mix of vinegar and baking soda).
- Scrub gently and rinse thoroughly with low-pressure water.
- Reassemble the unit and restore power.
Is It Okay to Spray Water on Your Air Conditioner?
Yes—but carefully.
- For outdoor condenser coils, use a gentle garden hose spray, not high-pressure washers.
- For indoor evaporator coils, avoid hoses entirely. Use a spray bottle for precise control.
- Always ensure the power is off before spraying any component.
- Dry all parts thoroughly to prevent mildew and corrosion before turning the system back on.
DIY Tools and Materials for Cleaning Your AC
Having the right supplies on hand makes cleaning easier:
- Mild detergent or commercial coil cleaner
- DIY solution: 1 cup vinegar + ½ cup baking soda + 1 gallon water
- Shop vacuum with brush attachment
- Soft-bristled brushes for sensitive areas
- Fin comb to fix bent fins
These tools are great for maintenance, but know your limits—improper cleaning can lead to costly mistakes.
When to Call a Professional
If you:
- Still experience poor cooling after cleaning
- Notice signs of mold or water leaks
- Hear electrical buzzing or popping
- Are unsure how to clean safely or thoroughly
…it’s time to call the experts. Professional HVAC technicians can clean hard-to-reach components, inspect your system for deeper issues, and ensure safe, reliable performance year-round.
Let ProClean Handle It for You
Keeping your AC system clean doesn’t have to be a burden. ProClean offers professional HVAC maintenance and coil cleaning services designed to boost efficiency, prolong equipment life, and protect your indoor air quality. Our licensed technicians and House Cleaning Surrey team are trained to handle both indoor and outdoor systems with the care and precision they deserve. Whether you’re prepping for a heatwave or simply staying on top of your maintenance schedule, ProClean has you covered.
Stop stressing about your AC—let ProClean do the dirty work. Call us today to schedule a comprehensive coil cleaning. Get cool, stay efficient, and enjoy peace of mind all season long.
Your comfort is our priority.
Follow us on our socials here
Find out more articles that can help you below:
How Do Companies Clean Air Ducts? A Behind-the-Scenes Look
