Home Garden

How to Clean an HVAC Split System Evaporator

Evaporator coils are responsible for cooling the air inside of the home. Refrigerant lines connect to the evaporator. The coils of the evaporator absorb heat from the air and produce cool air from it. The evaporator produces water during the process, which pours down a drain line to the outside of the house. Regular cleaning of the coils and the drain line is recommended to keep the furnace running efficiently. As long as you can access the evaporator, you can do this repair yourself.

Things You'll Need

  • Socket wrench or screwdriver
  • Bleach
  • Funnel
  • AC coil cleaner
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Instructions

    • 1

      Switch off the power to your air conditioner at the circuit breaker to prevent electrical shock while working on the unit.

    • 2

      Locate the evaporator compartment, which is located above the blower housing.

    • 3

      Remove the cover from the evaporator by removing the screws from the cover.

    • 4

      Mix 1 part bleach with 1 part water in a container. Place a funnel over the drain line below the evaporator, and pour the solution down the drain line to remove any algae from the unit.

    • 5

      Spray an air conditioner coil cleaner onto the evaporator coils. Coil cleaner is available from most home improvement stores. Wipe down the coils after the cleaner has sat on the coils for the time recommended on the packaging.

    • 6

      Close the evaporator unit by replacing the cover.