How much does it cost to clean AC coils?

AC coil cleaning cost

AC coil cleaning costs $100 to $400 on average, depending on the coil type, location, accessibility, and dirt buildup. Evaporator coil cleaning costs $100 to $400 to clean the coil in-place or $400 to $700 to remove and clean the coil. Condenser coil cleaning costs $75 to $230.

• Dirty evaporator and condenser coils reduce the AC system's efficiency by up to 30%.
• Cleaning the coils improves air quality, increases the AC unit's lifespan, and reduces energy costs.
• AC coils should be cleaned at least once per year.
• Failure to clean the coils can lead to AC compressor damage, capacitor failures, and burnt wires.

Average AC cleaning cost

The following table shows the average cost to clean air conditioner coils.

Cost data is from research and project costs reported by HomeGuide members.

Evaporator coil cleaning cost

Evaporator coil cleaning costs $100 to $400 when cleaning the coil in-place or $400 to $700 if the coil is removed for cleaning. The evaporator coil—also called the air handler coil or furnace coil—is located indoors and removes heat and moisture from the home.

If the coil is damaged, an AC evaporator coil replacement costs $400 to $2,400.

AC condenser coil cleaning cost

Condenser coil cleaning costs $75 to $230 on average. Condenser coils, also known as fan coils, are located in the outdoor AC cabinet and accumulate dirt, leaves, grass, and animal fur. Dirt buildup restricts heat transfer and reduces airflow, preventing the AC unit from cooling effectively.

• Maintain at least two feet of clearance around the outdoor condenser to allow airflow and minimize debris accumulation.
• If the coil is damaged, an AC condenser coil replacement costs $900 to $2.300.

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Combining AC cleaning costs

Getting both coils cleaned at the same time or combining with other AC cleaning services may reduce costs. An AC tune-up or maintenance plan typically includes condenser coil cleaning.

• An AC tune-up costs $70 to $200.
• An HVAC maintenance plan costs $120 to $360 per year.
• Air duct cleaning costs $300 to $700 on average or $25 to $45 per vent.

AC acid wash cost

An acid wash costs $300 to $350 and is a method of cleaning the AC coils. The acid wash dissolves debris and mineral buildup and is only recommended for outdoor AC units due to harmful fumes.

AC blower wheel cleaning cost

AC blower wheel cleaning costs $125 to $250 on average. The blower wheel is located inside the air handler or furnace and moves air through the HVAC system. Dirt and grease buildup slows down the wheel’s rotation, making it work harder and reducing airflow.

If the part is damaged, replacing the AC blower motor costs $300 to $900.

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DIY cost to clean AC coils

The cost to clean AC coils yourself is $15 to $30 for supplies, including solvent solution and fin cleaning brushes. Before cleaning the coils, confirm that DIY cleaning does not void the AC warranty.

Coil cleaner prices

Coil cleaner prices are $5 to $20 for solvent solutions found at home improvement and hardware stores. Foaming solvents are easy to apply, and self-rinsing products are safe to use on indoor and outdoor coils. Look for cleaners that are:

• Alkaline-based
• USDA authorized
• Non-corrosive
• Free of harmful chemicals such as chlorine

How to clean AC evaporator coils

Follow these steps to clean the evaporator coil in-place. Do not attempt to remove the coil.

1. Turn off the power to the AC unit.
2. Remove the access panel and filter from the evaporator unit.
3. Use a can of compressed air to blow large particles of debris from the coils.
4. Generously spray the dirty coils and the drip pan with a coil cleaning solution.
5. Allow the solution to stand for 15 minutes.
6. Use a spray bottle of water to rinse the coils.
7. Gently wipe away any loosened debris with a soft brush or cloth.
8. Use a pipe cleaner to unblock the drain hole leading to the drip pan. Pour a capful of bleach down the hole to prevent mold.
9. Use a wet-dry vacuum to remove any residual debris from around the panel frame.
10. Replace a new AC filter and turn the AC unit power supply back on.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to clean AC coils?

Cleaning AC coils takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the system size and type, location, accessibility, and the time since the last cleaning.

How often should AC evaporator coils be cleaned?

Evaporator coils should be cleaned yearly as part of an AC tune-up. Keeping the coils clean ensures cooler air and improves air quality while reducing utility costs.

Failure to clean the coils may cause the compressor or capacitor to fail prematurely. AC compressor replacement costs $600 to $2,500. AC capacitor replacement costs $100 to $250.

How often should condenser coils be cleaned?

Clean condenser coils at least once a year to improve the efficiency and lifespan of the AC system. Dirty coils block the exchange of air, making the system work harder over time. In highly polluted areas, clean coils more than once per year.

What is the best cleaner for air conditioner coils?

The best cleaner for AC coils is a heavy-duty detergent or degreaser that removes dirt and oil. Foaming cleaners dissolve grime and offer an easy application for hard-to-reach places. For a chemical-free option, use a 50/50 mixture of vinegar and water.

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Finding and hiring an AC coil cleaner

When hiring an AC repair company near you to clean the coils, be sure to:

• Look for a NATE or AHRI-certified technician with experience servicing air conditioners.
• Select a company that has been in business for more than five years.
• Browse their reviews on HomeGuide, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
• Get at least three estimates to compare and be sure the equipment is comparable in the estimates.
• Avoid selecting the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
• Get a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before the work begins.
• Never pay in full upfront. Instead, make final payment only when satisfied with the completed service.

Questions to ask

• Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
• Are you AHRI or NATE certified or ACCA accredited?
• Are you EPA Section 608 certified to handle refrigerants?
• What experience do you have with AC coil cleaning?
• What type of equipment do you use to clean the coils?
• Will you need to remove the evaporator coil to clean it?
• Do you offer a discount for cleaning both coils at the same time?
• Do you offer a discount to clean the coils as part of a full-HVAC cleaning service?
• Which AC cleaning services does your annual maintenance plan include?
• Does the estimate include cleanup cost and debris disposal?
• Will you provide a list of references with contact information?
• Do you guarantee your work or offer an extended warranty?

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