[PinkString]

Originally Posted by clutchcargo777

If you have a split system (a unit outside on the ground) that is the condenser. The poster that suggesting getting the evaporator coils cleaned bi-yearly is referring to the half of the "split" that is inside the home above a condensate pan. That's the part that a fan blows air over a coil that is cooled by expanding refrigerant that makes the cold air that makes your house livable. That's not to say you shouldn't get your condenser coils cleaned as well. That's the part that's outside that removes the heat from your house. Equally helpful.

So this would be in the attic then? We are in a townhome. The noisy a/c unit is outside, on a cement pad by the back door, only noisy when it's on. Quite loud in fact. I guess it's time for someone to go up in the attic, and it won't be me.

[tiger08]

Originally Posted by clutchcargo777

If you have a split system (a unit outside on the ground) that is the condenser. The poster that suggesting getting the evaporator coils cleaned bi-yearly is referring to the half of the "split" that is inside the home above a condensate pan. That's the part that a fan blows air over a coil that is cooled by expanding refrigerant that makes the cold air that makes your house livable. That's not to say you shouldn't get your condenser coils cleaned as well. That's the part that's outside that removes the heat from your house. Equally helpful.

Yes thats correct, outside condenser coil needs to be cleaned also. In my years of cleaning and repairing these things, it seems like the evap coil takes more of a heavy beating when it comes to dirt.
The evap coil can be more of a pain to clean also, as the dirt and whatever else from inside the house, cat hair, dog hair etc, really sticks to the coil pretty good.

As far as the outside condenser goes, a good dose of 409 or simple green usually does the trick, simply spray on and hose down. Now, if the unit is on the ground near hairy animals, it can be a real pain to clean and would require more than just a hosedown.

And remember, always kill the power first before washing anything down

[tiger08]

Originally Posted by PinkString

So this would be in the attic then? We are in a townhome. The noisy a/c unit is outside, on a cement pad by the back door, only noisy when it's on. Quite loud in fact. I guess it's time for someone to go up in the attic, and it won't be me.

Yes, if your furnace or air handler is in the attic, then thats where the evaporator coil is.

[justmethatswhoIam]

We do it before AC season and every other year before heating season but units are almost 11 years old