What Are the Signs Your AC Coils Need Cleaning in Newark?
If you’ve spent a summer in Newark, you know just how much you rely on your air conditioner to keep cool. But sometimes, even when the AC is running, your home might not feel as refreshing as it should. Believe it or not, dirty coils inside your AC coil cleaning unit can be the culprit. Let’s look at the tell-tale hints your air conditioner’s coils could use a good cleaning, explained in a way everyone can follow—no technical talk, just real-life signs and tips.
“Sometimes, the smallest things—like a little dust on your AC coils—can have the biggest impact on comfort in your home.”
Cooling Isn’t What It Used to Be
One of the earliest signs your AC coils are gunked up is when the air coming from your vents feels less cool than before. If you set your thermostat to your usual temperature and the rooms still feel muggy or warm, don’t just blame the weather outside. Dirty coils can’t absorb or release heat efficiently, so your system has to work much harder to provide the same chill. It’s like trying to drink a thick milkshake through a thin straw—the flow just isn’t there.
| Sign | What You Might Notice | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Weak Cooling | Air from vents is not as cold as usual | Coils are likely covered in dirt, blocking heat transfer |
| Longer Run Times | AC stays on much longer to cool the same space | System is struggling due to dirty coils |
| Higher Bills | Electricity costs go up without extra usage | Unit’s efficiency drops, using more power |
| Frost on Coils | Visible ice or frost on indoor or outdoor unit parts | Restricted airflow and heat exchange issues |
| Strange Smells | Musty or dusty odors when AC runs | Dirt and moisture combine, causing odors |
Strange Smells or Unusual Sounds
If your AC kicks on and your nose wrinkles at an odd odor, don’t ignore it. When coils stay dirty for too long, moisture can mix with all that dust and gunk, leading to a musty or even mildew-like smell blowing through your house. Sometimes, you might even catch a faint burning scent if the system is working overtime. Odd noises—like hissing, bubbling, or clanking—can also appear, usually because the coils are coated in grime, making the whole system strain or vibrate. If your AC sounds or smells different, it’s a good time to peek at those coils.
Rising Utility Bills for No Clear Reason
Have you noticed your electric bill creeping up even though you haven’t been blasting the AC any more than usual? Dirty coils are sneaky energy hogs. Since they’re covered in a layer of dust and debris, they force your AC to run longer to reach the temperature you’ve set. The unit ends up guzzling more electricity just to keep up. In Newark, where summers can be sticky and hot, this can add up fast. If your bills are higher but your habits haven’t changed, your AC coils might be overdue for a scrub.
Frost, Ice, or Water Leakage
Another clue your coils need attention shows up as frost or ice on your unit, even when the weather is warm. Dirty coils can’t shed heat the way they’re supposed to, so sometimes, parts of the system literally freeze up. You might spot ice on the copper tubes or notice puddles of water under the unit as the ice melts. These are clear indicators that air isn’t flowing right and your coils aren’t doing their job. Letting this go can lead to bigger problems down the road, so it’s best to tackle it sooner rather than later.
When to Give Your Coils Some TLC
If you’ve noticed any of these signs in your home—less cooling power, odd smells, rising utility bills, or a frozen-looking AC unit—it’s time to think about cleaning those coils. In Newark, with its mix of city dust and humid summers, AC coils can get dirty surprisingly fast. Regularly checking and cleaning them can not only bring back that cool comfort but also help your system last longer and save money on your energy bills.
Remember, keeping your AC happy doesn’t have to be a mystery. A little attention to the small stuff—like coil cleaning—can make a big difference when the heat is on. Stay cool, Newark!
Read More: Newark Air Duct Cleaning
