How Dirty Coils Affect Your AC System’s Performance

As the temperatures rise and you rely more on your air conditioning, it’s nice to have a system that’s running efficiently. Regular AC maintenance with coil cleaning can help improve system performance. Dirty AC coils may seem like a minor issue, but they significantly impact your air conditioner’s performance, efficiency, and lifespan. If you’re wondering how AC coil cleaning affects your system and your energy bills, read on to get the details.

Understanding AC Coils and Their Role

Air conditioning systems regulate temperature using two main types of coils: the evaporator coil and the condenser coil.

Evaporator coils are located inside your home, typically near the air handler. They absorb heat from the indoor air. As warm air passes over the coil, the refrigerant inside absorbs the heat, cooling the air before it circulates back into your living space.

Condenser coils are found in the outdoor unit. They release the heat absorbed from inside your home to the outside air. The refrigerant flows through this coil, expelling the collected heat so it can cool again and repeat the cycle.

Both coils must be clean and free of debris to function correctly. Dirt, dust, and grime eventually build up on the coils, creating a barrier that restricts airflow and heat transfer. That means your system has to work harder to cool your home, which leads to AC performance issues and several costly problems.

Signs of Dirty AC Coils

So, how can you tell if your AC coils are dirty? Here are some common signs homeowners should look out for:

• Reduced cooling performance: If your system isn’t cooling as effectively as it used to, dirty coils could be the culprit.
• Longer cooling cycles: When coils are coated in dirt or grime, your AC runs longer to reach the desired temperature.
• Increased energy bills: A struggling system uses more power to achieve the same cooling results.
• Frost on the coils: The evaporator coil can become so cold that moisture freezes on it, especially when dirt restricts airflow.
• Warm air from vents: If the condenser coil can’t properly release heat, the whole system becomes inefficient, and you may notice warmer air coming from your vents.
• System overheating or short cycling: When the unit runs inefficiently due to dirty coils, it may overheat and shut off abruptly, a condition known as short cycling.

These symptoms may not always appear all at once, but even one or two can signal that your coils need attention.

Impact of Dirty Coils on System Efficiency

Dirty coils significantly reduce the air conditioning efficiency. Here’s how:

• Increased energy consumption: When the coils are dirty, your AC unit has to work harder to achieve the same level of cooling. This increased strain leads to higher energy use and, consequently, higher utility bills.
• Reduced system lifespan: An overworked system is more likely to break down and require costly repairs or premature replacement.
• Poor indoor comfort: Dirty coils can make it harder to maintain a consistent temperature. Some rooms may feel warmer than others, and humidity control may also suffer.
• Frozen coils and system damage: Excessive dirt buildup, especially on the evaporator coils, can cause them to freeze. This ice buildup restricts airflow further and, if left unaddressed, may damage the compressor.

Neglecting coil maintenance doesn’t just affect your comfort — it can lead to mechanical issues or complete system failure, costing you hundreds or even thousands of dollars to fix.

How do Dirty AC Coils Lead to Higher Energy Bills?

One of the most immediate and noticeable impacts of dirty coils is an increase in energy bills. When the system has to work harder to cool your home due to restricted airflow or impaired heat exchange, it consumes more electricity. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, dirty condenser coils can increase energy consumption by up to 30% — a substantial rise in cost throughout a hot summer.

If your utility bills have been creeping up without a clear reason, it could be time to check your coils.

Maintenance Tips for Clean AC Coils

Regular AC maintenance is key to keeping your air conditioning system running smoothly. Here are some coil-cleaning and maintenance tips every homeowner should follow:

• Schedule annual tune-ups: The best way to ensure your coils stay clean and your system is in peak condition is to schedule professional maintenance every spring before the summer heat arrives.
• Keep the outdoor unit clear: For your condenser coil to function effectively, keep the area around the outdoor unit free from grass, weeds, leaves, and debris. Trim back plants or bushes to allow at least two feet of clearance around the unit.
• Change air filters regularly: A clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing dirt to accumulate on the evaporator coil. Check your filter every 1 to 3 months and replace it as needed.
• Use coil cleaners: While it’s generally best to leave coil cleaning to the professionals, foaming coil cleaners are available for homeowners who are comfortable with light maintenance.
• Monitor performance: Pay attention to signs of poor cooling, odd noises, or rising energy bills. These can all be early warnings that maintenance is overdue.

So, how often should AC coil cleaning be performed? Most systems benefit from professional cleaning once per year, typically in the spring. In areas with high pollen, dust, or pet dander, more frequent cleaning may be necessary.

Call AC Plus Heating & Air

Don’t wait until your AC system struggles during a heatwave. A simple spring tune-up can make all the difference for your home cooling solutions. At AC Plus, our professional technicians are ready to clean your coils, inspect your system, and ensure everything is running at peak performance.

Call today to schedule your spring AC tune-up and enjoy peace of mind knowing your air conditioner is ready to keep your home cool, comfortable, and efficient all summer long.