Many parts come together to deliver the cool air flowing out of your air conditioning unit. The condenser coils unarguably rank high on the list of the most important. What are AC condenser coils? What role do they play in the cooling process? We’ll cover all the answers you need below.
What Are AC Condenser Coils?
AC condenser coils refer to hollow metal coils within the outdoor unit of central air conditioning systems. Working together with evaporator coils, they help remove warm air from an indoor space.
What Is the Role of AC Condenser Coils in the Cooling Process?
AC condenser coils receive the refrigerant charged with hot air from inside your home as a hot gas. Then, they convert the hot gas back into a cool liquid refrigerant that must return to the evaporator coil to continue the process of heat absorption. This process continues for as long as you have your air conditioner turned on.
The AC condensers play a crucial role in the heat exchange process because they consist of thin copper tubes rolled inside aluminum fins. The fins help in dissipating the heat from the refrigerant into the air.
The fan in the outdoor unit also helps to fast-track the heat dissipation process by moving outdoor air across the fins quickly.
What Happens When AC Condenser Coils Are Dirty or Damaged?
Dirty or damaged condenser coils mean a less efficient air conditioning unit.
Dirty or damaged condenser coils make it harder for the unit to release the heat from the refrigerant to the outside air. This can also upset the balance of airflow through the air conditioning system.
Therefore, the air conditioner will have to work a lot harder to reach your set temperatures. This results in higher energy bills and more regular breakdowns. If you continue to use the air conditioner in that state, you can anticipate a premature AC replacement.
How Can You Keep Your AC Condenser Coils Working Perfectly?
You can keep your AC condenser coils working perfectly by taking steps to ensure steady airflow around them. Here’s what you can do:
- Hire AC coil cleaning experts. Most HVAC companies clean air conditioner coils as part of their services. Scheduling the cleaning at least once a year (ideally during your annual AC maintenance) can keep the surface area of the coils free from dirt and grime.
- Clean the coils on your own. You can clean air conditioner coils with a soft brush or a low-pressure garden hose. However, you need to be careful when cleaning the coils to avoid bending the fragile fins.
- Keep the area around the outdoor unit free. Don’t allow shrubs to grow around it and don’t use the areas as storage space to avoid hindering airflow.
Get Professional Help With Cleaning Your AC Condenser Coils
Are you looking for an HVAC service technician you can depend on to help keep your AC condenser coils working perfectly? Call AC Plus Heating & Cooling in Southern California today at (760) 243-4440 to book an appointment.
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