The unsung heroes of any air conditioner, AC coils work together to pull heat out of your air supply and send it outside your home. Without properly functioning coils, your air conditioner wouldn’t be able to cool your home efficiently, leading to higher energy bills and reduced comfort.
In this guide, we’ll walk through what AC coils are, what you should know about cleaning them, and the differences between the two types of coils. Whether you’re troubleshooting a cooling issue or just want to take better care of your system, we’ve got you covered!
AC coils are designed to remove heat from your home and release it outside, allowing your air conditioner to maintain a cool and comfortable indoor temperature. They work as part of the refrigeration cycle, using refrigerant to absorb and transfer heat efficiently.
The two types of AC coils, evaporator coils and condenser coils, each have different jobs, but work together as part of the cooling process. Without them, your air conditioner wouldn’t be able to regulate temperature effectively, leading to inconsistent cooling and higher energy consumption.
Evaporator coils are constantly exposed to dirt and dust circulating throughout the home, while condenser coils are in constant contact with the outdoors, leaving them vulnerable to dirt, leaves, and other debris. When these contaminants build up on your coils, it can restrict airflow and prevent your AC from releasing heat properly, leading to decreased performance and higher energy costs.
Cleaning your AC coils regularly is key in helping them run at peak performance and condition. Here are a couple of important things to know when it comes to cleaning your AC coils:
In most cases, AC coils can be cleaned while still in place, making routine maintenance more convenient. Using a soft brush, compressed air, or a no-rinse coil cleaner can help remove dirt and debris from the evaporator and condenser coils without the need for disassembly.
We recommend having your AC coils cleaned by professionals. This will ensure that the coils are thoroughly cleaned without causing accidental damage to delicate components. Professional technicians have the right tools and expertise to remove stubborn buildup, improve efficiency, and extend the life of your system.
It can be difficult to determine if your AC coils are dirty, but they’ll often leave hints behind signaling that something is wrong. that the coils are thoroughly cleaned without causing accidental damage to delicate components. Professional technicians have the right tools and expertise to remove stubborn buildup, improve efficiency, and extend the life of your system.
Both types of AC coils have unique jobs to play; but they work together to bring comfort to your home. Here is what you need to know about both evaporator and condenser coils:
The evaporator coil is the indoor component of your AC system that is responsible for absorbing heat from the air inside your home. It is typically located near the air handler or blower fan, where warm air from your home passes over it. The refrigerant inside the coil absorbs heat, cooling the air before it is circulated back into your home through the ductwork.
Beyond cooling, evaporator coils also play a role in reducing humidity by condensing excess moisture from the air. Because they are constantly in contact with indoor air, they can accumulate dust, dirt, and even mold over time. If not properly maintained, evaporator coils can become clogged or freeze, reducing efficiency and potentially causing AC failure.
The condenser coil is found in the outdoor unit of your air conditioning system and is responsible for releasing the heat absorbed from your home. After the refrigerant has collected heat from the evaporator coil, it travels to the condenser coil in a high-pressure, high-temperature state. Here, the outdoor fan blows air over the coil, helping to disperse the heat into the surrounding environment.
Because condenser coils are exposed to outdoor elements, they are more susceptible to collecting dirt, leaves, and debris, which can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency. Keeping the area around the outdoor unit clear and cleaning the coils regularly helps ensure proper heat dissipation. Well-maintained condenser coils allow the AC system to function efficiently, preventing overheating and ensuring consistent cooling inside your home.
Whether your AC coils are experiencing issues or you’re dealing with another type of cooling system problem, Grove Heating & Cooling is here to help. We apply our knowledge, expertise, and industry-leading tools to ensure your air conditioner runs efficiently and keeps your home comfortable. Our team of skilled technicians will inspect your system, diagnose any coil or performance issues, and provide the right solution—whether it’s cleaning, repairs, or replacement.
With years of experience serving Arnold, MD, we’re committed to delivering reliable, professional AC services you can trust. Contact us today for service.