🌀 How to: Clean Your HVAC Coils—and When to Do It

If your air conditioner isn’t cooling like it used to, or your energy bills are creeping up without explanation, dirty HVAC coils could be the culprit. Cleaning your system’s coils is one of the most effective (and overlooked) ways to maintain efficiency and extend the life of your HVAC unit.

In this post, we’ll break down what HVAC coils do, why they need cleaning, how to clean them safely, and how often it should be done.

🌀 What Are HVAC Coils, and Why Do They Matter?

Your HVAC system has two main types of coils:

1. Evaporator Coils – Located inside your indoor unit, these absorb heat from the air in your home. We recommend allowing your HVAC pro to address this cleaning during your annual maintenance visit. 
2. Condenser Coils – Located in the outdoor unit, these release the heat outside.

When these coils are clean, the system can transfer heat efficiently. When they’re coated in dust, grime, pollen, or even mold, the system has to work harder—leading to reduced efficiency, higher energy bills, and a shorter system lifespan.

How to Clean (Outdoor) HVAC Condenser Coils

*Safety First*: Turn off power to the HVAC system before cleaning any components.

• Remove debris: Clear leaves, grass, or dirt from around the unit.
• Rinse with hose: Spray water from the inside out using a garden hose (not a pressure washer).
• Apply coil cleaner: Use a foaming coil cleaner like this and let it sit per the instructions.
• Rinse again: Gently wash off the cleaner to remove all loosened debris.

*If the coils are severely clogged, bent, or appear damaged, it’s best to call a professional.

When Should You Clean Your HVAC Coils?

At least once a year is the general recommendation—but it can vary depending on your location and usage:

• Residential homes: Once a year, usually in spring before peak cooling season.
• High-dust environments: Every 3–6 months, especially if you live near construction, have pets, or suffer from allergies.
• Outdoor coils: Check seasonally and clean in spring and/or fall, as leaves and grass can clog them easily.

If your system runs constantly or you’ve noticed reduced cooling, uneven temperatures, or increased energy bills, it may be time to inspect and clean the coils sooner.

Bonus HVAC Tips for Clean Coils Year-Round

• Change air filters regularly (every 1–3 months) to reduce dust buildup on evaporator coils.
• Keep outdoor units clear of vegetation, mulch, and grass clippings.
• Schedule annual HVAC maintenance with a professional for deep cleaning and inspection. This is your friendly reminder to book it!