Why Alkaline Coil Cleaners are Preferred for AC Maintenance Professionals

Air conditioning systems are essential in maintaining comfortable environments in homes, offices, and industrial settings. With regular use, however, these systems accumulate dust, dirt, and other contaminants on their coils, leading to reduced efficiency and higher energy consumption. To ensure that air conditioning units function optimally, regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary. Among the various cleaning agents available, alkaline coil cleaners have emerged as the preferred choice for AC maintenance professionals. Here's why.

Understanding Coil Contamination

Before delving into why alkaline coil cleaners are favoured it’s crucial to understand the problem at hand—coil contamination. The evaporator and condenser coils in an AC unit are designed to absorb and release heat, making them pivotal to the cooling process. Over time, these coils accumulate dust, dirt, grease, and even biological contaminants like mold and mildew. If left unchecked, this buildup can lead to several issues, including:

• Reduced Heat Transfer Efficiency: Dirt acts as an insulator, preventing the coils from efficiently absorbing or releasing heat, which forces the AC unit to work harder, consuming more energy.
• Increased Energy Consumption: As the system struggles to maintain the desired temperature, it consumes more electricity, leading to higher energy bills.
• System Wear and Tear: The increased workload on the AC unit accelerates wear and tear, potentially shortening its lifespan and leading to more frequent repairs.
• Poor Indoor Air Quality: Contaminated coils can become breeding grounds for mold and bacteria, which can circulate through the air conditioning system, leading to poor indoor air quality and potential health issues.

Given these potential problems, regular cleaning of the coils is not just recommended—it’s essential. This is where alkaline coil cleaners come into play.

Why Alkaline Coil Cleaners Stand Out

Normal cleaners like use of acids leaves behind a risk of corrosion and flash rusting. Since coils are generally made up of copper or aluminium, it is preferred that such acids are not used. Instead, something which is blended with non acidic cleaners, surfactants and emulsifiers can be thought of as an alternative option. This option on application, ensures excellent penetration into the coils for complete cleaning, leading to instant increase of CFM/Air Velocity in AHU (Air Handling Units), enhancement of operational life and reduction of operational cost.

1. Superior Cleaning Power

The primary reason alkaline coil cleaners are preferred is their superior cleaning power. The alkaline nature of these cleaners enables them to dissolve stubborn grease, oils, and organic matter that may accumulate on the coils. This makes them particularly effective in commercial and industrial settings where air conditioning systems are exposed to higher levels of pollutants.

2. Non-Corrosive Properties

One of the critical concerns when cleaning AC coils is the potential for corrosion, especially when using acidic or harsh chemical cleaners. Alkaline coil cleaners are typically formulated to be non-corrosive, meaning they can clean effectively without damaging the delicate metal surfaces of the coils. This ensures that the coils remain intact and continue to function efficiently after cleaning.

3. Biodegradable and Environmentally Friendly

Many modern alkaline coil cleaners are designed to be biodegradable and environmentally friendly. This is particularly important for professionals who need to adhere to strict environmental regulations or who prioritize sustainable practices. Using such cleaners reduces the environmental impact of maintenance activities, aligning with broader industry trends towards greener, more sustainable solutions.

4. Safe for Users

Alkaline coil cleaners, when used as directed, are generally safe for professionals. They are less likely to cause skin irritation or respiratory issues compared to acidic cleaners. Additionally, many formulations are low-odor or odourless, making them more pleasant to work with in confined spaces like mechanical rooms or rooftop units.

5. Versatility in Application

Another advantage of alkaline coil cleaners is their versatility. They can be used on a variety of surfaces and coil types, including aluminium and copper, which are commonly found in AC systems. This versatility simplifies the maintenance process, as professionals can use the same cleaner across different systems without worrying about compatibility issues.

6. Preventive Maintenance

Regular use of alkaline coil cleaners as part of a preventive maintenance program can help extend the lifespan of AC systems. By keeping coils clean, these cleaners reduce the strain on the system, preventing overheating and reducing the likelihood of breakdowns. This not only saves money on repairs but also ensures that the AC unit operates at peak efficiency, providing consistent cooling and comfort.

Easy Application and Cost-Effectiveness

Finally, the application of alkaline coil cleaners is straightforward. Most come in a ready-to-use formula that can be sprayed directly onto the coils. After allowing the cleaner to penetrate and break down the contaminants, a simple rinse with water is usually needed to remove the loosened debris. This ease of use translates to time savings for maintenance professionals, allowing them to complete jobs more efficiently. Additionally, because these highly effective cleaners often require less product per cleaning, making them a cost-effective choice.

The name Chemtex depicts Chemical Technology Experts. The early 1970s saw the foundation of Chemtex. And in the following decades, it expanded with its variety of indigenous chemicals and industries catered.