Clean coils minimize required fan brake horsepower and maximize efficiency by keeping coil static pressure loss at a minimum.

Clean coils keep the motor temperature and system pressure within safe operating limits for good reliability.

The following equipment is required to clean condenser coils: a soft brush and either a garden pump-up sprayer or a high-pressure sprayer. In addition, a high-quality detergent must be used. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for mixing to make sure the detergent is alkaline with a pH value less than 8.5.

Specific steps required for cleaning the condenser coils are as follows:

1. Disconnect the power to the unit.

WARNING

Open the unit disconnect switch. Failure to disconnect the unit from the electrical power source may result in severe electrical shock and possible injury or death.

2. Remove enough panels from the unit to gain access to the coil.

3. Protect all electrical devices, such as motors and controllers, from dust and spray.

4. Straighten coil fins with a fin rake, if necessary.

5. Use a soft brush to remove loose dirt and debris from both sides of the coil.

6. Mix the detergent with water according to the manufacturer's instructions. The detergent and water solution may be heated to a maximum of 150F to improve its cleaning ability.

WARNING

Do not heat the detergent and water solution to temperatures in excess of 150F. High-temperature liquids sprayed on the coil exterior raise the pressure within the coil and may cause it to burst. Should this occur, the result could be both injury to personnel and equipment damage.

7. Place the detergent and water solution in the sprayer. If a high-pressure sprayer is used, be sure to follow these guidelines:

Minimmum nozzle spray angle is 15 degrees.

Spray the solution perp endicular (at a 90-degree angle) to the coil face.

Keep the sprayer nozzle at least 6 inches from the coil.

Sprayer pressure must not exceed 600 psi.

CAUTION

Do NOT spray motors or other electrical components. Moisture from the spray can cause component failure.

8. Spray the side of the coil where the air leaves first; then, spray the other side (where the air enters). Allow the detergent and water solution to stand on the coil for 5 minutes.

9. Rinse both sides of the coil with cool water.

10. Inspect the coil and if it still appears dirty, repeat Steps 8 and 9.

11. Remove the protective covers installed in Step 3.

12. Replace all unit panels and parts, and restore electrical power to the unit.

Fan Motors

Inspect periodically for excessive vibration or temperature. Operating conditions vary the frequency of inspection and lubrication. Motor lubrication instructions are found on the motor tag or nameplate. If not available, contact the motor manufacturer for instructions.

To re-lubricate the motor, complete the following:

WARNING

Disconnect the power source for motor lubrication. Failure to do so may result in injury or death from electrical shock or moving parts.

1. Turn the motor off. Make sure it cannot accidentally restart.