Maintenance
44
OAU-SVX01H-EN
Condenser Coil Cleaning
Regular coil maintenance, including annual cleaning,
enhances the unit’s operating efficiency by minimizing:
compressor head pressure and amperage draw;
evaporator water carryover; fan brake horsepower, due to
increase static pressure losses; airflow reduction.
At least once each year, or more often if the unit is located
in a “dirty” environment, clean the condenser coils using
the instructions outlined below. Be sure to follow these
instructions as closely as possible to avoid damaging the
coils.
Microchannel (MCHE) Coils
Due to the soft material and thin walls of the MCHE coils,
the traditional field maintenance method recommended
for Round Tube Plate Fin (RTPF) coils does not apply to
microchannel coils.
Moreover, chemical cleaners are a risk factor to MCHE due
to the material of the coil. The manufacturer does not
recommend the use of chemical cleaners to clean
microchannel coils. Using chemical cleaners could lead to
warranty claims being further evaluated for validity and
failure analysis.
The recommended cleaning method for microchannel
condenser coils is pressurized water or air with a non-
pinpoint nozzle and an ECU of at least 180 with pressure no
greater than 600 psi. To minimize the risk of coil damage,
approach the cleaning of the coil with the pressure washer
aimed perpendicular to the face of the coil during cleaning.
Optimum clearance between the sprayer nozzle and the
microchannel coil is 1 in.–3 in.
Round Tube Plate Fin (RTPF) Coils
To clean refrigerant coils, use a soft brush and a sprayer
(either a garden pump-up type or a high-pressure sprayer).
A high-quality detergent is also required; suggested
brands include “SPREX A.C.”, “OAKITE 161”, “OAKITE 166”
and “COILOX”. If the detergent selected is strongly alkaline
(pH value exceeds 8.5), add an inhibitor.
1. Remove enough panels from the unit to gain access to
the coil.
2. Protect all electrical devices such as motors and
controllers from any over spray.
3. Straighten any bent coil fins with a fin comb.
NOTICE
Coil Damage!
Failure to follow instructions below could result in coil
damage.
DO NOT use any detergents with microchannel
condenser coils. Use pressurized water or air ONLY,
with pressure no greater than 600psi.
For additional information regarding the proper
microchannel coil cleaning procedure, refer to service
bulletin RT-SVB83*-EN.
WARNING
Hazardous Chemicals!
Failure to follow all safety instructions below could
result in death or serious injury. Coil cleaning agents
can be either acidic or highly alkaline and can burn
severely if contact with skin occurs. Handle chemical
carefully and avoid contact with skin. ALWAYS wear
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including goggles
or face shield, chemical resistant gloves, boots, apron
or suit as required. For personal safety refer to the
cleaning agent manufacturer’s Materials Safety Data
Sheet and follow all recommended safe handling
practices.
AVERTISSEMENT
Produits chimiques dangereux !
Le non-respect de toutes les consignes de sécurité
indiquées ci-après pourrait entraîner des blessures
graves voire mortelles. Les agents de nettoyage pour
serpentin peuvent être soit acides, soit fortement
alcalins et peuvent entraîner des brûlures graves au
contact de la peau. Manipulez les produits chimiques
avec prudence et évitez tout contact avec la peau.
Portez TOUJOURS un équipement de protection
individuel (EPI), y compris des lunettes ou un masque
facial, des gants résistant aux produits chimiques, des
bottes, un tablier ou une combinaison conformément
aux exigences. Pour la sécurité personnelle, voir les
fiches de données de sécurité du fabricant pour l’agent
de nettoyage et suivre toutes les pratiques de
manipulation préconisées.
WARNING
Hazardous Pressures!
Failure to follow safety precautions below could result
in coil bursting, which could result in death or serious
injury. Coils contain refrigerant under pressure. When
cleaning coils, maintain coil cleaning solution
temperature under 150°F to avoid excessive pressure in
the coil.
