Cleaning condensor coils: What solution to use?

[Tarheelgarage]

Pardon me if this has been asked before.
I want to pop the covers from my ac and heat pump units and clean the outside condensor coils.
What is a safe and effective cleaner to use?

thanks, Tarheelgarage

 

[Charles (in GA)]

There is an AC condenser cleaner made just for this. It is a mild acid, that when sprayed on (using a garden sprayer or the like) foams up. Let it sit, hose it out throughly.

Charles

 

[usa#1]

Go to an HVAC supply shop like CCDixon, Bakers, etc and get the foaming coil cleaner for outdoor coils. It's usually sold in plastic 1 gallon jugs. The shops usually have a couple of brands. (Graingers probably carries the stuff also) I usually remove the top of the unit that supports the outdoor fan. I find it's easier to wash out the unit this way. Mixing it in a cheap plastic garden sprayer works great. Also follow the directions on the jug and wear eye protection.

Most of the condenser cleaner is not suitable for indoor coil cleaning so don't clean the indoor air handler coils unless the cleaner specifically states it suitable for indoor air handler coils.