If you use your air conditioner unit frequently, you may need to clean it more often. Dirty coils can consume up to 40% more energy than clean coils, reducing the cooling function by up to 30%. Not only will your air conditioning unit lose performance and efficiency, but your monthly utility bills will also increase if the coils are not maintained. Evaporator coils should be checked regularly and cleaned as needed.
In most cases, a seasonal adjustment is enough to keep the system running smoothly. However, if you live in a big city with heavy air pollution or if the equipment is older or is operating most of the day, frequent adjustments may be necessary. Checking the condenser coils every two months and using a brush to gently remove dirt can help keep the system running between settings. Ideally, air conditioner maintenance should be done twice a year, although once is sufficient for some systems.
Between visits, condenser coils can be cleaned by removing large debris and rinsing them with a hose, after cutting off the power supply. The evaporator is often difficult to access and must be professionally cleaned. To keep evaporator coils clean, it is important to check the air filter at least once a month and replace it as needed. If you're still having problems with your air conditioner, it's time to call the experts.
Although some of the most unscrupulous air conditioning service companies will say that it needs service two or three times a year, most experts agree that once a year is enough to clean air conditioning coils. If the air filter is dirty or no air filter is used, this can also increase the amount of contaminants that come into contact with the coil.
