Is Your Air Conditioner's Condenser Coil Corroding? Know How To Clean It

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Is Your Air Conditioner's Condenser Coil Corroding? Know How To Clean It

13 January 2017
 Categories: , Blog

A crucial part of your home's air conditioning system is the condenser coil. As the air flows over this coil, its cold temperature cools the air before it is pushed out to your home. Unfortunately, this part can have rust spots on it, which can ruin the efficiency of the condenser coil. Here is what you need to know about cleaning rust off a condenser coil.

Gathering Tools and Materials

Before you can get started, you'll need the following items:

  • Small paintbrush
  • Naval jelly
  • Scouring pad
  • Wet sponge
  • Soapy cloth
  • Coil cleaner
  • Towel
  • Vacuum cleaner

Treating Rust Spots

Start by disconnecting the power going to your air conditioner, and then remove its cover so that you can access the unit's condenser coil. Take a look at the coil and identify the pieces of rust. You can apply naval jelly directly to these spots that are rusting with a small paintbrush. The jelly will take a few minutes to penetrate into the rust, which helps loosen the rust form the coil. You can use your scouring pad to rub the rust off using a side-to-side motion.

Once the rust is removed, you should wipe down the coil using a cloth with soap on it. Your wet sponge can be used for removing naval jelly still on the coil. Dry off the coil using your towel.

Cleaning The Condenser Coil

If you notice staining on other areas of the condenser coil, coil cleaner can be applied to it to remove it. Let it soak in for a few minutes, and then rub the area using your damp cloth. A vacuum hose attachment can be used to remove dirt that is stuck between any small pieces of metal. Try using the brush attachment to loosen dirt stuck between those metal pieces.

Protecting The Condenser Coil

You'll want to take steps to prevent the coil from rusting in the future. While the air conditioner is in use, you should give the coil a visual inspection once in a while, clean off the coil using a damp cloth, and dry it before turning it back on. You should remove rust at the first signs of damage, rather than waiting for it to build up.

If the condenser coil is covered in rust and looks beyond, repair, you will need an HVAC technician to replace the condenser coil for you. Reach out to a local technician that can help.