Pros and Cons of Cleaning AC Coils

If you take care of your air conditioner, it can last 15 to 20 years. Cleaning the AC coils is one of the most important things you can do to keep your system running well. But is it always worth doing it yourself, or should you hire someone else? There are pros and cons to think about, just like with most home maintenance tasks.

Keep reading as we walk you through the main points:

By the end of this blog, you'll understand why regular AC coil cleaning matters and why many homeowners ultimately choose to hire the pros for the job.

Your AC has to work harder when the coils are dirty or dusty. The extra stress can make parts wear out faster, which means they will last less time. The system runs smoother when the coils are clean, which keeps the compressor and blower motor from working too hard. This regular care can add years to the life of your air conditioner and push back the need to buy a new one.

AC coils are delicate, and it’s easier than you might think to damage them while cleaning. Using the wrong chemical cleaner can eat away at the coils, while spraying too hard with a garden hose or pressure washer can bend the fins. Even small bends reduce airflow and efficiency.

Pet hair, dirt, and pollen on the coils make it harder for your AC to move heat around, so it has to run longer and use more energy to keep your home comfortable. Cleaning the coils makes them more efficient, letting more air flow and lowering your monthly utility bills. This could save you hundreds of dollars a year when using air conditioning throughout the summer.

Cleaning coils isn't hard, but it does take time and the right tools. You'll need coil cleaner, soft brushes, protective gear, and a lot of patience to do it right. It can take an hour or more, especially if the access panels are hard to get off or if there is a lot of buildup.

Not only does a dirty system use more energy, but it also has a higher chance of breaking down. Your AC could overheat, freeze up, or turn on safety switches if the coils get clogged. These problems often lead to breakdowns in the middle of the season and calls for expensive emergency repairs. Cleaning the coils helps keep those surprises from happening and gives you peace of mind that your system will keep working even on the hottest days.

You might assume that DIY cleaning can save money upfront, but in the long run, professional service may be more cost-effective. HVAC technicians thoroughly clean coils and inspect them for refrigerant leaks, loose connections, and other early signs of trouble. They can identify problems before they become major repairs, which saves you money and stress. For most homeowners, the extra peace of mind is worth the cost of a maintenance visit.