Dirty Condenser Coils: Everything You Need To Know

During the warm Birmingham weather, your air conditioner can be your lifeline! It keeps you cool during the hotter seasons and requires maintenance to function with efficiency. However, if your cooling system begins to act up, dirty condenser coils might be the cause of the problem.

At Skelton’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we aim to keep your home comfortable year-round! It’s crucial to keep your system up to par in order to get through the rising temperatures. If your cooling system is blowing warm air, giving your condenser coils a little TLC might be the solution. Keep reading to learn about your condenser coils and how you can keep them in good condition.

How Do Condenser Coils Work?

Your system’s condenser and evaporator coils work alongside one another. The evaporator coils are located within your indoor unit. They absorb heat from your indoor air, transferring it into the refrigerant. Any remaining cold air makes its way into your ductwork and disperses throughout your home.

The condenser coils are located in your outdoor unit. They take the warm air and transport it outside. As they get cooler, water condenses on the coil and helps remove humidity from your household. However, the moisture can attract dust and other debris, causing them to get filthy over time.

Consequences Of Dirty Condenser Coils

Although a bit of dirt may not seem like a big deal, filthy coils can create problems for your AC unit. It’s crucial to monitor these components regularly to ensure they are functioning efficiently. A few issues that come from dirty coils are:

Insufficient Cooling

A buildup of dirt on your coils can block the refrigerant and air needed to keep your home cool. The heat transmission process becomes limited and cannot be transported outdoors. Ultimately, your air conditioner’s efficiency may reduce, causing your system to blow warm air indoors.

Frost Develops On Coil

Debris buildup can prevent proper airflow within your system. As a result, heat transmission is interrupted, hindering your system’s ability to keep your coils warm. A frozen AC coil occurs when condensation forms on dirt and freezes during your air conditioner’s operation. This issue prevents your home from receiving cool air and can drive up your utility bill.

Wear And Tear On AC Unit

Any time your system’s routine is compromised, it overworks itself in an attempt to cool and regulate your indoor temperature. Unfortunately, this can cause your air conditioner to short cycle and possibly break down. If this occurs, you may have to invest in some costly air conditioner repairs that could have been prevented by cleaning your coils.

Cleaning Your Condenser Coils

You don’t have to call a professional every time your coil needs cleaning! You can use compressed air to remove light amounts of dirt from your unit. Point the air opposite to the airflow your coils follow, and debris will blow away.

For heavy-duty buildup, you can buy a commercial cleaner or create a mixture of household detergent and water. If using a professional cleaner, follow the instructions carefully for the best results. For detergent and water, apply the mixture to your coils and allow it to sit for a few minutes. After it’s soaked, you can wipe the liquid off with a washcloth or soft brush.

Contact Us For Air Conditioner Repairs In Birmingham

If your air conditioner isn’t functioning how it should, Skelton’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing team is here to help! Your unit’s coils are a crucial part of your cooling system but require maintenance here and there. Call us today to schedule your service or if you need Birmingham emergency AC repairs!