What Is an HVAC Coil Cleaner and Why Is It Important?
Coils are essential for the proper functioning of an HVAC system. If debris accumulates in them, they will not work perfectly. So, it is necessary to clean them regularly to avoid any complications. An HVAC coil cleaner is used to remove dirt, dust, debris, and other contaminants from the evaporator and condenser coils in an HVAC system. These coils are important components of the system as they help to transfer heat, and keeping them clean is necessary for the efficiency and performance of the entire HVAC unit.
In this blog post, we will learn what an HVAC coil cleaner is, its types, benefits, and uses. But Xbefore that, we first need to understand what an HVAC system and coils are.
What is an HVAC system and Coil?
HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, and it's a term referring to a system of components that collectively work to maintain the temperature, humidity, and air quality and make your home comfortable. This system contains coils that are required for cleaning. However, these coils can accumulate grime, debris, and dirt which can result in affecting their heat transfer ability.
There are two main types of coils in an HVAC system that require cleaning: evaporator coils and condenser coils. Over time, these coils can accumulate dirt, grime, and dust, reducing their ability to transfer heat properly. Regular cleaning using an HVAC coil cleaner can improve the efficiency of your system, reduce energy consumption, and extend the lifespan of the equipment.
Types of HVAC Coils
There are two main types of an HVAC system and these are responsible for the proper functioning. Both these types are mentioned below:
1. Evaporator Coils:
Evaporator Coils are located inside the air handler or furnace. This type of HVAC coil is responsible for absorbing heat from the indoor air and turning refrigerant into a gas. A refrigerant is a special fluid used in air conditioners and refrigerators. When warm air passes over these coils, the refrigerant immediately absorbs the heat and cools the air. If evaporator coils are dirty, the system’s ability to cool effectively will be reduced significantly.
2. Condenser Coils:
Condenser coils are located outside, mostly in the condenser of the unit. The function of these coils is to release the heat absorbed by the refrigerant. The refrigerant was turned into gas by evaporator coils. So, now this gas will be under high pressure and will move through the coils. When it moves through these coils, it will release the heat to cool down and turn back into liquid form again. If the coils are dirty, the HVAC system will face difficulty in releasing the heat and it will lead to inefficiency.
Importance of HVAC Coil Cleaner?
HVAC coil cleaners are very important because you can use these cleaners to increase the functionality and lifespan of your HVAC system. HVAC coil cleaners have a lot of other benefits as well and a few of those are given below:
1. Improved Energy Efficiency:
If the coils are dirty they will put pressure on the HVAC system for its functionality. The HVAC system will have to work harder to heat or cool your space and this will lead to more energy consumption and higher electricity bills. Cleaning your coils will allow the system to operate more efficiently by elevating heat exchange. This can help to maintain the desired temperature with less effort.
2. Better Air Quality:
If dust and debris accumulate on the coils, their contaminants will circulate in your house and will affect the air quality. Regularly cleaning the coils can significantly reduce the potential for dust and other allergens to affect indoor air quality.
3. Prevent System Overheating:
The condenser coils heat up the system and when these coils are dirty. They can lead to overheating of the whole system because the heat can't dissipate properly. This will also cause the compressor to overheat as well and potentially it will lead to system failure. Regular cleaning of condenser coils can help to prevent costly breakdowns and repairs.
4. Prolongs the Life of the HVAC System:
The HVAC system that operates under high stress due to dirty coils will have more chances of experiencing wear and tear over time. If you clean the coils regularly the lifespan of your HVAC system will also increase and the need for expensive repairs or replacements will also be reduced.
5. Reduces Maintenance Costs:
Regularly cleaning the coils will keep them in a good touch and avoid any major issues. The need for the frequent maintenance issues that arise due to reduced efficiency. When you regularly maintain and clean the coils, the system is more likely to not get major issues, saving the cost of those repairs.
How to Clean the Coils Using an HVAC Coil Cleaner
Cleaning the coils of an HVAC system using an HVAC coil cleaner is straightforward, however, it’s essential to follow the instructions on the product for the best results.
DIY Cleaning
Here are some simple steps that you can follow for DIY cleaning of your HVAC coils:
- Turn Off the Power
- Access the Coils
- Remove Dust and Debris
- Apply the HVAC Coil Cleaner
- Rinse Properly
- Inspect and Reassemble
- Test the System
Professional Cleaning
Cleaning the HVAC coils is not very difficult but if you have completely zero knowledge about it then it can be risky. You can damage or waste the cleaner without getting the desired results. Hiring a professional HVAC cleaning service is a good idea to maintain the temperature of your space without getting the stress involved during the DIY cleaning.
You can contact Billy.com to get more information or hire HVAC professionals for the cleaning of the coils. Our pros will use an HVAC coil cleaner to elevate the functionality of the whole system.
Types of HVAC Coil Cleaners
HVAC coil cleaners are very important and divided into two major types:
- Acid-based Cleaners
- Alkaline-based Cleaners.
1. Acid-Based Coil Cleaners
Acid-based HVAC coil cleaners are more aggressive and these are mostly used for heavy-duty cleaning. This type of HVAC coil cleaner is very effective in removing mineral deposits, scale buildup, and stubborn grime. These are suitable for condenser coils that have a lot of accumulated dirt and debris. Acid-based cleaners can be harmful so don’t use them on sensitive components.
2. Alkaline-Based Coil Cleaners
Alkaline-based HVAC coil cleaners are perfect for simple cleaning like routine maintenance or cleaning evaporator coils. Alkaline-based cleaners are gentler than acid-based cleaners and are mostly used for delicate cleaning. These types of cleaners are very effective in removing organic materials like dirt, dust, and oils. This feature makes them ideal for keeping the coils clean throughout the year.
Best HVAC Coil Cleaners on the Market
If you are still confused about selecting the best coil cleaners. We have mentioned some most famous and reputable HVAC coil cleaners in the market that you can consider.
- Frost King Coil Cleaner
- CoilPro CC-400 Hi-Flow
- Simple Green Coil Cleaner
- Nu-Calgon 4171-75 Evaporator Coil Cleaner
- CleanSmart Coil Cleaner
Conclusion
Cleaning and maintaining the coils using an HVAC coil cleaner is very essential. It makes sure that your heating and cooling systems are working efficiently and effectively. If you pick and use the right HVAC coil cleaner then it will allow you to remove dirt, debris, and grime from both evaporator and condenser coils.
This cleaning will also lead to enhanced energy efficiency, lower utility bills, better air quality, and a longer lifespan for your HVAC system. You choose an acid-based or alkaline-based HVAC cleaner but remember that regular cleaning is compulsory. Cleaning these should be part of your overall HVAC maintenance routine to keep your system operating at maximal performance.
FAQs related to HVAC Coil Cleaner
Is an HVAC coil cleaning worth it?
HVAC coil cleaning is necessary for the efficient working of the entire HVAC system. If the coils are dirty the system will not be able to properly heat and cool your space. So, HVAC cleaning is definitely worth it and required for the functioning of the HVAC system.
How often should HVAC coils be cleaned?
Regular cleaning of HVAC coils can avoid the need for major repairs. However, it is recommended to clean these coils at least every three to four months.
What are the types of HVAC coil cleaners?
The HVAC coil cleaner has two main types that are acid-based coil cleaners and alkaline-based coil cleaners.
How do I know if my HVAC coils are dirty?
When the HVAC coils are dirty, the dust and debris on these coils puts extra pressure on the HVAC system and overheats the entire system. It also results in increased utility bills due to the greater energy consumption by the system.
What happens if you don't clean your HVAC coils?
If you don’t clean your HVAC coils regularly, the system won’t work properly. The HVAC system will overheat and won’t be able to maintain the temperature of your space.
Can you clean your own HVAC coils?
Yes, you can clean your HVAC coils on your own but you must have some knowledge about it. This is not a complicated task and by following a few steps you can clean these coils.
How can I hire professional service for the cleaning of HVAC coils?
If you want to get the services of an expert for the cleaning of HVAC coils then you can contact Billy.com to hire the HVAC pros that will ensure the efficient working of the system.
