AIR-COOLED FLUID COOLER
28 • Air-Cooled Condenser Manual
7.3 Coils
• Coils should be inspected semi-annually and cleaned as required.
• Check for bent or damaged coil fins and repair as necessary. Use a coil fin comb if
the coil fin is bent or deformed and is repairable.
• Check all refrigerant lines for vibration isolation and support as necessary.
• Check all piping for signs of leaks.
• Check for condensation, water spot, piping insulation damage, frost or other visual
sign of wear or damage.
• Periodic inspection of the coil for signs of corrosion and for leaks is recommended.
• Repair and replacement of the coil and the connecting piping, valves, etc., should
be performed by a qualified individual(s).
7.3.1 Coil Cleaning
Keeping the outdoor coils clean is an important factor in maintaining peak efficiency, reliability
and long life of the equipment. It is much easier to keep up on frequent cleanings rather than
wait until heavy build up has occurred which may create head pressure problems with the
evaporator units.
• Comply with EPA and OSHA regulations when cleaning.
• Clean the coil in the direction of the airflow so that foreign material will be washed
out of the coil rather than pushed further in.
• Be sure to carefully read and follow the cleaning fluid manufacturer’s
recommendations before using any cleaning fluid.
• Using a brush (non-metallic), clean the coil fins of all debris that will inhibit airflow.
This can also be done with compressed air or with a commercial coil cleaner.
7.3.2 When to Clean
Normal conditions typically dictate cleaning twice a year, spring and fall. On-site or area
conditions such as cottonwood trees, construction, etc., can increase cleaning frequency. On
your standard monthly preventive maintenance schedule, a visual inspection of the coil is
recommended to monitor conditions.
7.3.3 What to Use
The best overall coil cleaner to use is plain water. If the coil has been maintained and cleaned
at regular intervals, water is enough to remove dirt and debris from the fins. Heavy build up
on the exterior of the fins can be removed with a brush. Water pressure from a garden hose
and sprayer usually works well. If a pressure washer is used, make sure the equipment is set
to a lower pressure setting and that the nozzle is set to the fan spray, not stream. Otherwise,
damage to the fins could result. If a cleaner is required, we recommend a non-acidic type
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