Dirty AC Evaporator Coil: How to Clean it And Why Hire a Pro?

The operational efficiency of your air conditioning and furnace system depends on a well-functioning evaporator coil. It impacts the way your heating system functions if you are using a heat pump. A dirty evaporator coil will not absorb enough heat. The refrigerant will not warm up as much as it should, which is bad news for your Northern California business or home.

Cold refrigerant doesn’t condense into liquid as it is supposed to. Instead, it creates water vapor in the air which freezes. The evaporator may end up frosting over. Cleaning the evaporator coil can ensure a long service life and restore optimal functioning.

DIY Cleaning of Evaporator Coil

This is an easy task to do on your own. These steps should help you clean the evaporator coil:

• Turn off the air conditioning system first. You would need to unplug the unit and switch off the thermostat. This way you don’t need to worry about the air conditioner accidentally turning on while you are tinkering with the parts.
• Remove access panel from the furnace once this is done. You hould be able to see the coil when you lift the panel.
• Use a no-rinse cleaner on the evaporator coil’s fins. Don’t forget to read the instructions on the cleaner properly before directing the spray can.
• Use a gentle nylon brush to clean stubborn debris. You can also use a paintbrush to remove the debris.
• Once the evaporator coil is properly cleaned, you should put the access panel back. Turn on the air conditioner and you are done.

These steps may appear seemingly simple. However, a single wrong move can damage the evaporator coil beyond repair.

Hiring a Service Contractor

Cleaning an evaporator coil seems simple at face value. The entire job can be completed in a few minutes. However, if the unit has existing problems or other issues, you would need the help of a technician. This is where the services of a professional may come in useful.

A service contractor can look at the problem, determine the cause behind it, and provide a solution. Trained technicians know which warning signs to watch out for. They have a logical idea about which faulty component may be the root of the problem and steps that can be taken for fixing it.

Getting on Maintenance Plan

Service providers offer maintenance plans. It can be difficult to keep tabs on regular AC maintenance schedules. However, when you pay for a maintenance plan, someone else handles all the worrying. You won't need to remember calling the service contractor for cleaning or performing maintenance services.

Choosing a Technician

There are plenty of available options when it comes to selecting a technician. However, you need to ensure that you find the right one. These tips should help you:

• Reach out: You can always ask around to learn about contractors that are already providing satisfactory services in your area.
• Fit the bill: You need to find a company that offers the kind of services you require.
• Check reviews: Find a contractor that doesn’t have any complaints lodged against them.
• Hire local: It is always an astute idea to start with local options when hiring a service provider. It is easier for a contractor to show up for emergency repairs and odd servicing jobs when they can reach your home with ease.