If your air conditioner isn’t cooling like it used to, dirty coils might be the reason. Learning how to clean AC coils is one of the best things you can do to maintain system efficiency, prevent costly repairs, and improve your indoor air quality.
In this detailed guide, the experts at Riverside Comfort Care explain why coil cleaning is important, how to clean both indoor and outdoor coils safely, and when to call in the pros.
Why Cleaning AC Coils Matters
Air conditioning coils are responsible for heat transfer. When they’re covered in dirt, dust, or debris, your system has to work harder to cool your home. This leads to:
- Reduced energy efficiency
- Increased wear and tear on components
- Higher utility bills
- Poor indoor air quality
- Possible system failure
Clean coils keep your system running smoothly and extend its lifespan. Let Riverside Comfort Care help keep your system in peak condition in Fort Smith, Van Buren, Alma, and Greenwood, AR.
What Are AC Coils?
There are two types of coils in your AC system:
1. Evaporator Coil (Indoor)
Located inside the air handler or furnace, this coil absorbs heat from your indoor air.
2. Condenser Coil (Outdoor)
Located in the outside unit, this coil releases the absorbed heat into the air.
Both coils must remain clean to maintain effective heat exchange.
How to Clean AC Evaporator Coils (Indoor Coils)
Tools Needed:
- Screwdriver
- Soft brush or microfiber cloth
- Coil cleaner (no-rinse foaming type preferred)
- Shop vacuum (optional)
- Flashlight
Step-by-Step:
- Turn off the power to the system at the breaker.
- Remove the access panel on your indoor unit.
- Locate the evaporator coil (usually A-shaped inside the air handler).
- Use a brush or cloth to gently remove surface dust.
- Spray no-rinse coil cleaner evenly across the coil.
- Allow the foam to expand and break down debris.
- If needed, vacuum out loosened dust and debris.
- Reattach the access panel and restore power.
Pro Tip: Schedule routine coil cleaning with Riverside Comfort Care to prevent mold growth and clogs in Van Buren, Alma, Fort Smith, and Greenwood.
How to Clean AC Condenser Coils (Outdoor Coils)
Tools Needed:
- Garden hose with spray nozzle
- Coil cleaner (for outdoor use)
- Soft brush
- Screwdriver (to remove fan grill)
Step-by-Step:
- Turn off power to the outdoor unit at the disconnect box.
- Remove the top fan grill and gently set aside.
- Clear leaves, grass, and debris from inside the unit.
- Use a soft brush to remove visible dirt from coils.
- Spray the coils with outdoor coil cleaner.
- Wait 5–10 minutes for foam to lift the debris.
- Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose (low pressure).
- Reassemble and restore power.
Avoid using high-pressure washers—they can damage the coil fins.
How Often Should You Clean AC Coils?
Experts recommend cleaning your AC coils at least once per year, typically during spring before peak cooling season.
You may need more frequent cleaning if:
- You have pets
- You live near heavy vegetation or dust-prone areas
- Your system runs year-round
Regular service from Riverside Comfort Care in Fort Smith, Van Buren, Alma, or Greenwood helps avoid buildup.
Signs Your Coils Need Cleaning
Not sure if your coils are dirty? Watch for these warning signs:
- AC blowing warm air
- Higher electric bills
- Ice buildup on coils or refrigerant lines
- Musty odors
- Frequent cycling
If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to clean or schedule professional maintenance with Riverside Comfort Care.
Benefits of Clean AC Coils
- Lower energy bills
- Faster cooling
- Less strain on system components
- Improved air quality
- Longer system lifespan
Need Help Cleaning AC Coils in Fort Smith or Nearby?
Let the experts at Riverside Comfort Care handle the job. We offer coil cleaning, full tune-ups, and system inspections for homeowners in:
📞 Call us at (479) 123-4567
🌐 Book coil cleaning online
Trusted Resources for Further Reading:
- ENERGY STAR – HVAC Maintenance
- Energy Saver – Air Conditioner Efficiency
- EPA – Air Cleaners and HVAC Systems
