If your air conditioner’s been running non-stop but your home still feels warm or muggy, dirty coils might be the reason. Over time, dust, pollen, and grime can build up on your AC coils, making it harder for your system to do its job. It’s something most homeowners don’t think about—until the comfort starts to slip or the energy bills start creeping up.
Cleaning your AC coils doesn’t have to be complicated, and you don’t need to be an HVAC technician to do it. With the right tools and a bit of know-how, you can keep your system running more efficiently and help prevent costly repairs down the road.
In this blog, we’ll walk through the signs that your coils need attention, what tools you’ll need, and a step-by-step process to cleaning them safely and effectively. Whether you’ve never looked inside your unit before or you’re just looking to do things right, this guide is here to help you take care of your AC—and your comfort—season after season.
Signs Your AC Coils Need Cleaning
Dirty coils aren’t something you’ll notice right away—but they tend to leave clues. If your system isn’t performing the way it used to, the coils might be part of the problem. Here are some signs to watch for:
Reduced Cooling Efficiency
The first thing you might notice? It’s just not cooling like it used to. The air still blows, sure—but it’s not as crisp, and it takes way too long to cool the space. That’s often a red flag. When coils are coated in dust or grime, they can’t move heat properly, and your AC ends up running longer for the same result. You can learn more about other common air conditioner problems and how to fix them.
Increased Energy Bills
If your electricity bill creeps higher with no clear reason, your system might be overworking itself. Dirty coils force the AC to run harder, which eats up more power. It’s like trying to breathe through a scarf: you’ll get air eventually, but it takes more effort. Regular AC maintenance can help prevent this.
Unusual Noises
You might also hear things you haven’t heard before—buzzing, rattling, or hissing. These are signs your air conditioner needs repair, especially if paired with poor cooling. Noises like that can mean airflow is restricted or parts are vibrating more than they should. While it’s not always about the coils, buildup on them can definitely throw things off inside the unit.
Frequent Cycling
Another sign? Your AC keeps starting and stopping more often than it used to. That kind of short cycling usually means the system is having a hard time keeping the temperature steady. If the coils are dirty, it can’t cool efficiently, and the whole unit ends up turning on and off repeatedly. That’s not just annoying—it’s hard on the equipment too.
Tools and Safety Equipment Needed
Before you roll up your sleeves and start cleaning your AC coils, it’s good to gather everything you’ll need. Having the right tools not only makes the job easier but also helps you avoid accidentally damaging delicate parts.
Essential Tools
First up, a few simple tools will get you started:
- Soft-bristle brush — Great for loosening dirt without bending the fins.
- Fin comb — This handy tool helps straighten any bent fins, so air flows freely again.
- Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment — Perfect for sucking up loose dust and debris without being too harsh.
- Garden hose with gentle spray nozzle — You’ll want just enough water pressure to rinse off the cleaner and grime without hurting the coils.
- Coil cleaner or mild detergent — A specialized coil cleaner works best, but a gentle detergent mixed with water can do the trick if you don’t have one handy.
Safety Gear
It’s easy to forget, but safety comes first:
- Gloves — To protect your hands from sharp fins and cleaning chemicals.
- Safety goggles — Keeps your eyes safe from splashes when spraying cleaner or rinsing.
- Face mask — If you’re sensitive to dust or chemicals, a mask will help you breathe easier during the process.
Having these on hand means you’ll be ready to work carefully and confidently, keeping both yourself and your AC unit safe.
Step-by-Step Process to Cleaning AC Coils
Cleaning your AC coils might sound intimidating at first, but if you take it one step at a time, it’s a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it right:
1. Turn Off the Power
Before you do anything, make sure the power to your AC unit is completely off. Flip the breaker switch or unplug the unit to keep things safe while you work.
2. Access the Coils
Locate the access panel on your AC unit and remove it carefully. You might need a screwdriver for this part. Once open, you’ll be able to see the coils—usually metal fins that look like a radiator.
3. Remove Surface Debris
Start by gently brushing or vacuuming away loose dirt and dust. Don’t rush this part—use a soft-bristle brush or the vacuum’s brush attachment so you don’t bend or damage the fins.
4. Apply Coil Cleaner
Next, spray your coil cleaner evenly across the coils. If you don’t have a commercial cleaner, a mild detergent diluted with water works too. Let the cleaner sit for about 10 to 15 minutes so it can break down the grime.
5. Allow Cleaner to Sit
Give the solution some time to do its job. This step is key—it loosens up stubborn dirt that brushing alone can’t handle.
6. Rinse the Coils
Using your garden hose with a gentle spray nozzle, rinse the coils carefully. Make sure the water pressure is low enough to avoid bending the fins but strong enough to wash off all the cleaner and loosened dirt.
7. Straighten Bent Fins
If you spot any bent fins, use a fin comb to straighten them out. Proper airflow depends on those fins being in good shape, so don’t skip this step.
8. Reassemble and Restore Power
Once everything is clean and dry, put the access panel back on and secure it. Then, turn the power back on and enjoy a cooler, more efficient AC.
When to Call a Professional
There’s a lot you can do yourself when it comes to cleaning your AC coils, but sometimes it’s simply better to bring in a pro. If your coils have serious damage like bent fins you can’t fix or signs of corrosion and water leaks, it’s time to stop and get expert help.
Also, if your coils haven’t been cleaned in a long time and the dirt buildup is thick or stubborn, professional cleaning tools and techniques are usually needed to get the job done right. Trying to force it yourself risks damaging the coils or other parts of your system.
And if you’re not comfortable working near electrical components, or you’re unsure how to safely turn off power, calling a trained technician is the safest option. Our air conditioner repair services include thorough coil cleaning and maintenance, so you can trust your AC is in good hands without any hassle or risk.
Knowing when to call a professional can save you time, money, and stress — and keep your home cool when it matters most.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
Keeping your AC coils clean is just one part of the bigger picture when it comes to looking after your air conditioning system. A few simple habits can help you avoid buildup and keep your unit running smoothly for years to come.
Regular Filter Replacement
One of the easiest ways to protect your coils is by changing or cleaning your air filters regularly. Dirty filters let dust slip through, which eventually settles on your coils and causes problems. Most filters should be swapped out every 1 to 3 months—more often if you have pets or allergies.
Keep Surroundings Clean
Your outdoor unit works best when it’s got plenty of space to breathe. Make sure to clear away leaves, grass clippings, and other debris around it. Keeping plants trimmed and the area tidy helps prevent dirt from getting sucked in and sticking to the coils.
Schedule Annual Inspections
Even if you stay on top of cleaning, it’s smart to have a pro check your system at least once a year. A technician can spot issues you might miss and handle deep cleaning or repairs safely. Annual tune-ups help catch small problems before they turn into costly breakdowns.
Final Words
Regular cleaning of your AC coils is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep your air conditioner running efficiently and your home comfortable during those hot Canadian summers. Dirty coils force your system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and potential breakdowns—issues nobody wants to deal with.
If you find yourself facing persistent dirt buildup or signs of damage that go beyond basic cleaning, it’s time to reach out for professional help. Infiniti Home Comfort offers professional HVAC services in GTA to keep your cooling system in peak condition year-round. Our team has the experience and tools to handle even the toughest coil cleaning and maintenance tasks safely and effectively.
Don’t wait until a small problem becomes a costly repair. Keeping your AC coils clean and well-maintained is key to saving money and staying cool. And when you need expert assistance, you can trust us to deliver quality service every time.
