Introduction
Air conditioning is a blessing, especially during scorching summers. But, like all appliances, AC units also require maintenance. One of the essential maintenance tasks is cleaning the evaporator coils. Over time, evaporator coils get clogged with dust, dirt, and debris, reducing the AC unit’s efficiency. Cleaning the evaporator coils is not rocket science, and you can do it yourself with a few simple steps.
Tools Required
Cleaning evaporator coils requires some tools that you may already have at home. You’ll need a screwdriver, a soft brush, a fin comb, a spray bottle, and a cleaning solution. You can make a cleaning solution by mixing equal parts of water and vinegar.
Steps To Clean Evaporator Coils
Step 1: Turn Off The AC Unit
Before starting, turn off the AC unit and unplug it from the power source. This step is crucial for your safety.
Step 2: Remove The Access Panel
The next step is to remove the access panel to get access to the evaporator coils. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the panel in place.
Step 3: Brush Away The Debris
Now, use a soft brush to brush away the debris and dirt from the evaporator coils. Be gentle while doing this to avoid damaging the delicate coils.
Step 4: Use The Fin Comb
If the fins are bent, use the fin comb to straighten them. Bent fins can restrict the airflow and reduce the AC unit’s efficiency.
Step 5: Spray The Cleaning Solution
Next, spray the cleaning solution on the evaporator coils. The vinegar solution will help to dissolve the grime and dirt on the coils.
Step 6: Let The Solution Sit
Let the cleaning solution sit on the coils for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the solution to dissolve the dirt and grime.
Step 7: Rinse The Coils
After 10-15 minutes, use a spray bottle filled with clean water to rinse the coils. Make sure you rinse the coils thoroughly to remove all the cleaning solution.
Step 8: Replace The Access Panel
Now, put the access panel back in place and screw it in.
Step 9: Turn On The AC Unit
Turn on the AC unit and let it run for a few minutes to ensure everything is working correctly.
Step 10: Schedule Regular Maintenance
Lastly, schedule regular maintenance for your AC unit. Regular maintenance will help keep the AC unit in good condition and increase its lifespan.
Conclusion
Cleaning the evaporator coils is an essential maintenance task that can improve your AC unit’s efficiency and increase its lifespan. With the right tools and a few simple steps, you can clean the evaporator coils yourself. Follow the steps mentioned above, and you’ll have a clean AC unit in no time. Remember to schedule regular maintenance to keep your AC unit in good condition.
