How Much Does AC Coil Cleaning Cost? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $100 - $400
You can expect to spend around $250 for an AC coil cleaning. Your total cost will depend on the type, cleaning method, labor, and more—with most homeowners spending between $100 and $400.
The average AC coil cleaning cost is $250. The price of this service can range between $100 and $400, depending on several factors, including type, cleaning method, labor, size of your AC unit, and more. You should have your AC coils cleaned regularly by an AC repair pro to keep your air conditioning system running smoothly. Our guide will show you how much AC coil cleaning costs.
- Average
- $250
- Low end
- $75
- high end
- $700
AC Coil Cleaning Cost Factors
Your air conditioning unit has two types of coils: condenser and evaporator coils. You should clean both AC coils at least once per year to prevent clogging and grime buildup. Your total AC coil cleaning cost comes down to several factors, including the type of coil, cleaning method, size of your AC unit, and labor. Here’s what you can expect to pay for AC coil cleaning:
Types
Your AC unit has two types of coils: condenser and evaporator. These coils tackle different sides of the cooling cycle in your AC system. Here’s what you can expect to pay to clean each coil:
| Type of Coil | Average Cleaning Cost |
|---|---|
| Evaporator Coil | $100–$700 |
| Condenser Coil | $75–$200 |
Evaporator Coil
You’ll pay between $100 and $700 to clean the evaporator coil. The evaporator coil is inside the AC unit near the air handler and blower fan. Since the evaporator coil is more difficult to access, you’ll pay more to have it professionally cleaned. Even a tiny amount of dust will disrupt the evaporator coil’s effectiveness, so regularly cleaning these coils is essential.
Condenser Coil
You can expect to pay $75 to $200 to clean the condenser coil. The condenser coil is the second part of the cooling process, and it is located on the outside of the unit. Because condenser coils are easier to access, you’ll pay less to have them professionally cleaned.
Cleaning Method
Your chosen AC coil cleaning method will also affect your total bill. Consult your AC repair pro to determine the best option for your system.
| Cleaning Method | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Cleaning in Place | $100–$400 |
| Removing and Cleaning Coils | $400–$700 |
| AC Acid Wash | $300–$350 |
Cleaning in Place
You’ll pay between $100 and $400 to clean your evaporator coils in place. You can expect an AC repair pro to use a fin comb with long bristles and a can of compressed air to clean the coils in your AC unit. If there is any grime or buildup, a pro may also use a gentle coil cleaning solution to scrub it away.
Removing and Cleaning Coils
You can expect to pay $400 to $700 for an AC repair pro to remove and clean the evaporator coils manually. These deep cleanings are for caked-on dirt, grime, and coils that haven’t been cleaned in several years.
AC Acid Wash
You’ll pay $300 to $350 for a pro to perform an AC acid wash on your condenser coils. An acid wash helps to remove dirt, debris, and mineral deposits that have built up on the outside of your unit, which causes cooling inefficiencies. An acid wash will immediately remove any buildup on the condenser coils. However, because an acid wash can release harmful fumes, we recommend that only an AC repair professional perform this service.
AC Unit Size
There are 10 types of air conditioners that come in many shapes and sizes. Some are easier and faster to clean than others, causing prices to vary. For example, window AC units and portable air conditioners are easier to clean because they are smaller with more centrally located coils. However, you can anticipate paying more for cleaning central air conditioners, ductless mini-split units, and heat pumps because they use larger coils, which are more challenging to access.
Labor
You can expect an AC repair pro to charge an average of $175 per hour or between $100 and $250 per hour for labor. Your total labor cost will depend on the condition and accessibility of your unit and coils. Shop around and get price quotes from at least three local AC professionals to find the best fit for your project.
AC Coil Cleaning Ongoing Expenses
Of course, you want to keep your AC unit functioning properly, so you should budget for yearly maintenance and tune-ups. Here’s what you can expect to pay:
Maintenance contract: $150–$500 per year
AC tune-up: $70–$100
DIY AC Coil Cleaning vs. Hiring a Pro
You can DIY coil cleaning yourself if you have prior professional experience working with AC units. You’ll save on labor costs, but you’ll need to purchase a fin cleaning brush ($5 to $25), a microfiber cloth, a coil cleaning solution ($5 to $20), and a vacuum hose attachment. However, working with AC units is a complex and potentially dangerous task, especially due to the risk of accidental damage to your system.
That’s why we recommend hiring an AC repair company near you to ensure the job is done correctly, especially if your coils are extremely grimy and need professional cleaning. AC pros have the skills, tools, and experience to restore your coils to their best condition and complete the job efficiently and safely.
Cost of Common AC Coil Cleaning Add-Ons
While you’re having your AC coils cleaned, you might want to consider adding on an annual or bi-annual maintenance plan, along with other preventative measures, including:
Coil replacement: $600–$2,400
Duct cleaning: $268–$493
Flush condensate line: $75–$200
AC recharge: $200–$500
Ways You Can Save Money on AC Coil Cleaning
While you can’t change the cost of a professional AC coil cleaning, there are ways you can save on total maintenance expenses. Try these helpful tips:
Change the filters for your AC unit regularly.
Keep the area around your AC unit clean and free of debris.
Stick to a maintenance schedule and service your unit at least once per season.
Get quotes from at least three licensed HVAC technicians in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, AC coil cleaning is definitely worth it. Cleaning your AC coils ensures your AC unit will function efficiently for the long term. Dirty and grimy AC coils make your unit work harder to cool your home, resulting in higher electric bills. Additionally, having your coils professionally cleaned regularly will reduce the possibility of extensive maintenance and repair costs.
You should have your AC coils cleaned once per year. To keep your AC unit in tip-top shape, consider cleaning your coils twice yearly—before and after air conditioning season. That way, the pro will remove any dust, dirt, and debris that has built up over the winter and catch new grime that accumulated during the summer. Additionally, if you’re handy, you can tackle any in-between cleanings yourself with a special fin comb.
There are several tell-tale signs that your AC coils need cleaning, including:
You’re getting higher electricity bills.
Your home doesn’t feel as cool as it usually does.
Your AC unit is running longer than usual to cool your home.
Your home is more humid than usual.
The coil is covered in frost while running.
Here’s how AC professionals will clean your AC coils:
Unplug the AC unit or turn off the breaker to the unit in your circuit breaker box.
Remove the faceplate.
Spray a vacuum hose attachment or compressed air can to remove debris, dust, dirt, and grime.
Use a soft-bristled fin comb to remove stubborn caked-on debris.
Use the vacuum hose to suck up any extra debris.
Take a coil-safe cleaning solution and spray it onto the coils. Try to choose a no-rinse solution.
Let the solution sit for at least 15 minutes.
Gently wipe away loosened grime and debris with a microfiber cloth.
Reattach the faceplate, plug in your AC system, or turn the breaker back on.