Will Dirty AC Coils Affect Cooling?

Yes, dirty coils affect cooling. 

When dust and debris build up on the evaporator or condenser coils, it reduces the air flow through the coil. This forces the air conditioner system to work longer and harder to cool your space, causing increased energy usage

In severe cases, dirty coils can cause issues like frozen evaporator coils or an overheating compressor, leading to costly repairs. 

Keeping your coils clean with regular maintenance ensures efficient cooling, lower energy use, and a longer system life.

Maintenance is essential and should be performed at least 2-3 times a year, ideally by a qualified technician. Regular maintenance ensures that your AC system runs efficiently, saving you money in the long run.

One of the biggest contaminants in residential air conditioning systems is human skin, which is fat-based. This buildup can significantly affect airflow through the cooling coil, making the air handler work harder to absorb heat. When the coils are dirty, it can lead to reduced heat transfer efficiency, causing the system to run longer than necessary.

Over time, this accumulation can prevent proper airflow through the cooling coil and restrict water flow through the condensate pump. A dirty evaporator coil can also lead to warm air passing through your home, making it uncomfortable and increasing energy costs.

Always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions for your equipment. Additionally, there are commercially available coil cleaners that help reduce debris buildup on cooling coils and discharge hoses. However, be cautious, as some condensate pumps are sensitive to certain chemicals. Using aggressive cleaners can damage these components.

To keep your AC coils clean and your system running well, try a simple and cheap method. You can use two common household items to clean your AC unit. This method will clean the cooling coil, pump, and discharge hose. It will improve the performance of your outdoor unit.

Cleaning your air filter and keeping your AC coils clean will help your system work better and last longer.

• A clean houseplant spray bottle

• Household dish soap

1. Prepare the Cleaning Solution Mix 5% household dish soap with hot water (approximately 122°F / 50°C) in the spray bottle.

2. Turn Off Power Switch off the mains supply to the air conditioning unit for safety.

3. Access the Cooling Coil / Clean AC Coils If possible, remove the front cover to access the cooling coil.

   • Spray the diluted dish soap evenly across the coil, avoiding any electrical components.

   • Use a piece of card or plastic as a shield to prevent water from reaching electrical sections.

4. Clean the Drain Pan If you can access the drain pan beneath the coil, spray some diluted dish soap into it.

5. Empty and Rinse the Spray Bottle Use all the cleaning solution, then rinse the spray bottle thoroughly.

6. Allow Time for Cleaning Leave the unit for 30 minutes to let the dish soap break down fat and debris.Note: If your unit has a mini-split pump, it may activate during spraying. Reservoir pumps may not turn on.

7. Rinse with Clean Water Fill the spray bottle with hot, clean water and spray the coil thoroughly to flush away loosened debris.

   • Empty the entire bottle across the coil.

   • If accessible, wipe down the drain pan to remove any remaining buildup.

8. Reassemble and Restore Power Replace the cover and reconnect the mains supply

Hartell pumps are built for reliability and easy maintenance. They are designed to remove excess condensate effectively. This helps stop water buildup, which can cause leaks, system damage, or unexpected shutdowns.

Using clean coils with a reliable Hartell condensate pump ensures your air conditioning system runs at its best. It also protects your investment over time. Regular maintenance and high-quality parts like Hartell pumps can greatly extend your HVAC system's life. 

This gives you peace of mind and comfort in your space.