Air conditioning manufacturers make high-quality, rugged products that are
designed to withstand the elements i.e. snow, wind, rain, sun and extreme heat/
cold. However, the filters, coils, and fins of an air conditioner require regular maintenance.
to keep the unit running effectively and efficiently throughout its years of service.
Unlike the evaporator coil, the condenser coil is exposed to unfiltered outside air.
Dirt from the air terminal will settle on the condenser when the outside environment
it is dusty, or if there is foliage nearby. Depending on where you live, dirt can accumulate
very quickly. Almost anything that comes in contact with the coil surface can have a
insulating effect. Dirt, dust, seeds, insects, foliage, grease, corrosion, contamination and
even bacteria and other microorganisms can act as an insulating barrier. Anything
touching the coil reduces unwanted heat transfer from the
refrigerant to outside air.
Air conditioning manufacturers design equipment to achieve the highest SEER level
efficiency using the least amount of refrigerant. systems are perfectly
balanced and anything that affects heat transfer creates an imbalance that
drastically affects performance. A dirty coil reduces heat transfer, causing
the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant entering the compressor increases
above normal levels. The compressor will work harder and draw more amps to
Keep up. The cooling capacity of the system will be greatly reduced and the
mechanical components will be significantly stressed. A dirty coil means a higher
operating cost, increased wear on the compressor and fans, and inadequate
cooling.
Coils that have little maintenance done often become clogged with seeds and
dirt over time. If the condenser airflow is restricted on a hot day, the compressor
the head and cylinders will become extremely “hot”. The oil will start to break
down and loses its ability to lubricate causing accelerated wear and allowing
contaminants enter the system. This can cause the rings, pistons and cylinders
wear resulting in lower compression, leaky valves and metal debris in the oil.
Once this occurs, compressor failure will soon follow. The air conditioners are closed.
loop system and changing the oil is not a normal or easy procedure. The oil used in
Air conditioning systems are extremely durable, but they will break down prematurely if
the system is not cared for. Imagine trying to drive your car for 10 years without
Always changing the oil. When a hermetic compressor fails the only way to fix the
system is to replace the compressor. This implies opening the system, having the
Removed refrigerant and oil, and installed filter driers to clean the cooling system.
Moisture and acid that will enter when opening the system and that will leave the
failure. This is a very expensive procedure and many systems right now are not worth it.
fixation.
* The benefits of keeping the coil clean are:
* The equipment runs at a lower temperature and removes more heat.
* Has a lower operating amperage, resulting in lower energy costs
* Compressor is operating at maximum efficiency and will run less
* Equipment will last longer and be more reliable
That is why it is recommended to keep the air conditioning coil clean.
covered during low season.