Most of us don’t like unnecessary work, particularly when it involves chores around our homes. So, it can be very easy to overlook the outdoor unit of our air conditioner and wonder why we need clean condenser coils anyway. In fact, clean coils are vital for air conditioner function, and without proper attention, you may find that your system loses it cooling ability. If you are still unconvinced about the importance of cleaning your condenser coils, we will explore the topic a little further here.
What is a Condenser Coil? 
The condenser coil is inside your outdoor air conditioner unit, and it is vital to system operation. As the refrigerant removes the heat from inside your home, it is converted into a gas. This gas travels to the condenser, and as it passes over the coil, it is cooled and converts back to a liquid state. This allows the refrigerant to be recirculated to begin the process again. Unfortunately, since your condenser coil is in the outdoor unit, it is vulnerable to getting dirty from sand, dirt, weeds, leaves and other garden debris.
What’s So Bad About Dirty Condenser Coils?
Even if you are diligent about your garden maintenance, debris can still accumulate on the condenser coil. There is dirt in the air that is absorbed into the cooling unit as it is pulled in. This can allow dirt to begin to accumulate on the coil and the greater the build up, the more difficult it is for the unit to effectively function. When your condenser coil is dirty, you may notice that your air conditioner struggles to maintain your desired temperature setting and your electricity bills could start to increase as efficiency is compromised. If the coil continues to become coated with dirt and debris, it will lose its ability to convert the refrigerant from a gas into a liquid, preventing the system from producing cooled air. This can mean that your system is vulnerable to overheating, with the compressor being particularly at risk. Should this happen, your system will experience a total breakdown.
The Benefits of Having Your Condenser Coil Cleaned:
Keeping your condenser and evaporator coil free of foreign matter is one of the best ways to maintain efficiency. Additionally cleaning your coils can prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner equipment, helping to reduce the risk of premature failure. It is considered to be one of the most effective forms of preventative maintenance, allowing you to keep your air conditioner running better and longer.
Although it is possible to attempt cleaning your own air conditioner coils, it is best left to an HVAC professional. You can reduce the risk of problems developing with a little care. Simple garden maintenance such as keeping the areas surrounding your outdoor unit clear of garden debris including weeds, foliage and leaves can help keep the coils clean. Cleaning the coils should be included in your annual maintenance visit, so it is a good idea to schedule your appointment in the spring before your air conditioner will be needed for frequent use. This will also mean that any debris that may have accumulated during the inclement weather of winter and early spring can be removed to ensure optimum performance and efficiency throughout the warmer months.