{"id":7904,"date":"2024-05-06T11:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-05-06T18:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/?p=7904"},"modified":"2026-03-20T02:39:43","modified_gmt":"2026-03-20T09:39:43","slug":"cleaning-your-ac-coils-barrons-best-practices","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/cleaning-your-ac-coils-barrons-best-practices\/","title":{"rendered":"Cleaning Your AC Coils: Barron\u2019s Best Practices"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-medium\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/dirty-coil.jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" src=\"https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/dirty-coil-300x225.jpeg\" alt=\"Dirty outdoor air conditioning unit with clogged coils, highlighting the need for AC maintenance and regular air conditioner maintenance.\n\" class=\"wp-image-7905\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/dirty-coil-300x225.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/dirty-coil-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/dirty-coil-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/dirty-coil-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/dirty-coil.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We talk a lot about best practices that customers can take to improve the efficiency and condition of their air conditioning equipment. From changing your air filter to cleaning vents and adjusting thermostat settings, there\u2019s a lot to consider. But one of the lesser-known things that customers might find helpful is the cleaning of AC coils.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your air conditioner is comprised of an evaporator coil (the inside one) and a condenser coil (the outside one) which are both in charge of absorbing and dispersing heat. These coils need to be kept clean, otherwise you can come across some pretty bad situations. Dirty coils lead to bad efficiency, ice growing on them, and even uncomfortable indoor temperatures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, if you\u2019re looking for <a href=\"\/hvac\/air-conditioning\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">how to clean AC coils in Bellingham,<\/a> or would like to know Barron\u2019s secret easy tip for getting this done perfectly every year, then keep reading!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<!--more-->\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When Coil Cleaning Is Important<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Dirty coils can cause serious problems for your air conditioner. Think about it\u2013the coils need constant access to the air around them in order to function properly. The evaporator coils must constantly be absorbing the heat from your indoor air, while the condenser coils disperse that heat into the environment where it\u2019s far away from your home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Clean coils can do this job more easily and efficiently, using less electricity in the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Problem With Dirty Coils<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Dirty coils are a problem for a number of different reasons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Inefficiency. <\/strong>A system with dirty coils is going to use more electricity to run regular cycles, which costs more over a long period of time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lower system lifespan. <\/strong>Dirty coils cause more stress on the system which can cause components to break down faster.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Poor comfort. <\/strong>Those cool indoor temperatures will slowly become more uncomfortable as the coils get gunked up and dirty.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ice. <\/strong>If coils can\u2019t easily transfer heat to and from the air, ice will form on the coils and ruin your system\u2019s efficiency.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cottonwood, Pollen, Dirt, and More<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In the Bellingham area, our air conditioners can get plagued with cottonwood fluff and pollen of all different types of plants. This can not only lead to some of the worst allergies imaginable, but also a dirty air conditioner coil as a result.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019d recommend taking a hose to your air conditioner\u2019s condenser coil when you see this kind of debris in the air. Then, make sure you schedule an appointment with us for an <strong>air filtration system <\/strong>for your house if you\u2019re starting to get ill with allergy symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Secret to Perfectly Cleaned Coils<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The truth is that an average homeowner might not have the tools or know-how to adequately clean the coils of their air conditioner. This isn\u2019t their fault, these systems are extremely complex and anyone could risk voiding the warranty of their system if they start opening components up while trying to clean them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, we include coil cleaning in our <strong>maintenance plan<\/strong> when customers schedule this service on a yearly basis. This is an affordable and simple way to get perfectly cleaned AC coils with an additional inspection, system adjustment, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Why clean these coils yourself if you could get your entire AC cleaned and inspected for one low cost?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Question: Why is cleaning AC coils important?<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Answer:<\/strong> Dirty AC coils reduce heat transfer efficiency, causing the system to use more energy, shorten equipment life, produce ice on coils, and deliver less comfortable indoor temperatures. Clean coils improve cooling performance and reduce strain on the system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Question: What problems can dirty AC coils cause?<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Answer:<\/strong> Dirty coils can make your AC less efficient, increase electricity use, shorten system lifespan, lower comfort, and cause ice buildup on coils due to poor heat exchange.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Question: How often should AC coils be cleaned?<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Answer:<\/strong> Coils should be cleaned at least once a year to maintain efficiency and performance. More frequent cleaning may be needed in dusty environments or if the system\u2019s performance declines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Question: Can homeowners clean AC coils themselves?<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Answer:<\/strong> While light debris can sometimes be rinsed off with a hose, AC coil cleaning often requires professional tools and expertise to avoid damage and ensure thorough cleaning, so many homeowners choose a professional service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Question: What\u2019s the best way to clean AC coils for peak performance?<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Answer:<\/strong> Professionals use methods like gentle rinsing, specialized coil cleaners, compressed air, and careful debris removal to clean both evaporator and condenser coils without damaging delicate fins, improving efficiency and airflow.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Why is cleaning AC coils important?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Dirty AC coils reduce heat transfer efficiency, forcing your system to work harder and use more energy. Over time, this added strain can shorten equipment life, reduce cooling performance, and even cause ice buildup. Clean coils help maintain comfort, efficiency, and reliable operation.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What problems can dirty AC coils cause?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"When coils are covered in dirt and debris, airflow and heat exchange are restricted. This can lead to higher energy bills, uneven cooling, frozen coils, and increased wear on system components. Regular cleaning helps prevent these common performance and reliability issues.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"How often should AC coils be cleaned?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"AC coils should typically be cleaned at least once a year as part of routine maintenance. Homes in dusty areas or with heavy system use may require more frequent cleaning to maintain peak efficiency and consistent cooling performance.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Can homeowners clean AC coils themselves?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Homeowners can gently remove surface debris from outdoor coils, but deep cleaning often requires specialized tools and cleaning solutions. Professional service helps ensure coils are cleaned thoroughly without damaging delicate fins or other critical components.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What is the best method for cleaning AC coils?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"The most effective method involves carefully removing debris, applying a coil-safe cleaning solution, and rinsing without bending or damaging the fins. Professional technicians follow best practices to protect the system while restoring optimal airflow and cooling efficiency.\"\n      }\n    }\n  ]\n}\n<\/script>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>Our team of Home Performance Experts has served the I-5 corridor from Blaine to Marysville, Oak Harbor to Concrete, and the San Juan Islands since 1972 with a mission of Improving Lives\u2122. We look forward to serving you too! <a href=\"\/contact\/send-a-message\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Contact Barron Heating and Air Conditioning today for quality AC maintenance.<\/a>&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Dirty coils lead to bad efficiency, ice growing on them, and even uncomfortable indoor temperatures.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[258],"tags":[37,39,290,395],"class_list":["post-7904","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-ac","tag-ac","tag-ac-repair","tag-bellingham","tag-how-to-clean-ac-coils"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7904","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7904"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7904\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8739,"href":"https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7904\/revisions\/8739"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7904"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7904"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.barronheating.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7904"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}