Dirty Coils and Filters can Cost You

Dirty Coils and Filters can cost you.

You may not even realize your HVAC System has dirty coils and/ or filters. At the very least they can affect the air quality in your home, but they can also cause a strain on your HVAC systems causing them to work harder and use more energy to perform less. If the problem continues unchecked then it can lead to system failure.

Important to Check

Air filters should be checked every month and changed as often as needed but at least every three months or once a month if you have high traffic or pets. Disposable Air filters should not be cleaned, just replaced.

All air vents and returns inside the home should be cleaned and vacuumed regularly.

A Strain on your HVAC System

Your system must have proper air flow in order to work properly and efficiently. Anything impeding proper air flow, including dirty coils, will cause the system to work harder and ultimately lead to component failures.

Checking your system visually can help. Replace your air filters routinely, keep the areas in and around vents and return clear from any blockages or debris. Have maintenance inspections performed annually (one for heat and one for cooling).

Coil Care

There are typically two coils per split system. An evaporator coil (indoor) and a condenser coil (outdoor). Coils often collect contaminants from the air, dirt, debris, hair, VOCs and even oils. Dirty coils can get a grimy film on them which will attract small particulates. These particulates over time can erode the tubing and surfaces of the coil and cause refrigerant leaks. More information on Coil Care

Very often coil leaks are not repairable and the problem is not noticed until the refrigerant is very low. Depending on where the leak is, it may be possible to repair. Whether it is repairable or the coil needs to be replaced, a lot will have been spent on diagnostics and leak detection. Not to mention the repair or replacement and refrigerant. Either way it is a very costly exercise.

Keeping the coil clean helps it last longer and operate more efficiently.

The coils should be inspected and cleaned perhaps once a year by your HVAC specialist. If it is just dusty or has light debris, then sometimes it just needs to be brushed off. But a deep chemical cleaning may be required especially if there is buildup.

Annual Inspections

Air Doctor Heating and Air offers an annual maintenance contract which will inspect and clean (non chemical) the following systems- Heating in the fall and Air Conditioning in the spring:

• Thermostat
• Air Filter(s)
• Blower wheel, blower motor, blower capacitor
• Evaporator Coil
• Electricals
• Pressure gauges
• Compressor Amps, motor amps
• Fan Blade
• Defrost Cycle
• Pipes, valves

Deeper chemical cleaning of dirty coils would be an additional charge, but discounted if you have a maintenance plan. You will be notified of any problems found during the inspections, receive a written report and if any repair or parts are needed, they are discounted for our clients having maintenance contracts. Keep your HVAC systems and equipment safe.

Maintenance contracts are a very good value and offer peace of mind that your costly systems are kept running properly and efficiently.

Call or Text Air Doctor Heating and Air at 301-799-7200  or visit us on Facebook: AirDoctorHVACSpecialists