When Is the Right Time for AC Coil Cleaning in Lincoln?

If you’ve ever wondered why your air conditioner isn’t cooling the house as it used to, or why your energy bill seems a little too high, you’re definitely not alone. When summer ramps up in Lincoln and the air feels sticky, the last thing anyone wants is a sluggish AC. From my own experience living here, there’s one part of air conditioner care that gets overlooked more often than not—AC coils cleaning.

Maybe you’ve never thought about those hidden coils, or maybe you’re not entirely sure what they do. That’s okay—most of us just want cold air when it’s hot out! But knowing when and why to clean your AC coils can make a world of difference. Let’s dig into this together and make coil cleaning one less mystery in your home upkeep routine.

Why Do Coils Get Dirty in Lincoln?

You might be surprised at how quickly AC coils pick up dust, pollen, and even a bit of grass (especially if you mow nearby). Lincoln’s windy springs and all those cottonwood trees don’t help either. Over time, this gunk coats the coils and makes it harder for your air conditioner to do its job. Instead of efficiently pulling heat from your home, the AC ends up working overtime, which can lead to higher bills and extra wear.

If you live near a busy street, have pets who shed, or notice lots of pollen on your patio furniture, chances are your AC coils are seeing the same stuff. It’s a little like brushing your teeth—skip it for a while, and things get gross pretty fast!

How to Spot the Signs Your Coils Need Cleaning

Not everyone wants to peek inside their air conditioner, but there are some clear hints that your coils are due for a scrub. Here are a few things I look out for at my place and what friends have shared with me:

• The AC runs constantly but your rooms aren’t cooling down as quickly as usual.
• You notice an odd, musty smell when the unit kicks on (sometimes it’s just dust burning off, but it can also be a sign of buildup).
• Your energy bill jumps up, even though the weather hasn’t changed much.
• The AC makes more noise than before—sometimes struggling or rattling from overwork.

“A little bit of maintenance goes a long way—clean coils can mean the difference between a muggy afternoon and a cool, relaxing home.”

If you spot one or more of these, it’s a good cue to check on those coils or call in a pro for a quick inspection.

When Is the Best Time to Clean Your AC Coils in Lincoln?

However, if you’ve recently finished a big home project (think drywall or woodworking), or if spring brought an extra helping of pollen, an extra cleaning mid-season might be in order. Fall is also a good time for a check, especially if your AC gets a lot of use. That way, the unit is ready to go for next year—or to switch over to heating if you have a heat pump system.

Season	Ideal Cleaning Time	Why It Matters
Early Spring	Before the first use of the season (April-May)	Removes dust and pollen gathered over winter; ensures AC starts strong.
Mid-Summer	If you notice performance drops or after heavy storms	Keeps cooling efficient during peak use; tackles extra debris blown in by weather.
Early Fall	After heavy summer use or before storage	Prepares unit for next year; prevents grime from hardening over winter.
After Renovation	As soon as work is done	Removes construction dust before it causes long-term issues.

DIY or Call the Pros?

If you’re handy and not afraid to get your hands a little dirty, cleaning AC coils can be a DIY project (just remember to shut off the power first!). A gentle rinse with a garden hose and a soft brush can work wonders—just be careful not to bend the fins or use anything harsh. For tougher grime or hard-to-reach spots, though, it’s well worth bringing in a technician. They have the right tools and can spot other issues you might miss.

I usually do a light clean myself in the spring, but every couple of years I call in a local HVAC pro for a more thorough job. It’s a small investment that pays off in better performance and peace of mind.