How Often Should the Air Conditioning Evaporator Be Cleaned?
2 Answers
It is recommended to clean it once a year. The air conditioning evaporator is located inside the dashboard. When the air conditioning is turned on, the evaporator performs heat exchange, causing a large amount of condensation to form on its surface. At the same time, outdoor air entering the system may carry dust, bacteria, and other impurities, which can adhere to the evaporator's surface along with the condensation. Here are the methods for cleaning the air conditioning evaporator: 1. Disassembly Cleaning: This method involves high labor costs and risks damaging air conditioning system components. Improper sealing during reassembly can lead to system malfunctions. Generally, this method is not recommended unless there is damage to the air conditioning system components that requires disassembly and replacement. 2. Traditional Foam Cleaner Cleaning: This method relies on foam dissolution and the airflow from the blower to remove dirt. Its drawback is the lack of targeted cleaning, and the water droplets from foam dissolution can damage electrical components like the blower resistor. 3. Visualized Evaporator Cleaning: This is a popular method in the market today. It allows for a clear view of the entire cleaning process and enables targeted dirt removal. Its advantages include thorough cleaning, comprehensive sterilization, and system antibacterial effects. Since specialized equipment is required, it is recommended that car owners visit professional cleaning shops for this service.
I generally recommend cleaning the air conditioning evaporator every 1 to 2 years, but it depends on driving habits. For example, I live in the humid southern region where AC usage is frequent during summer, making the evaporator prone to dust and mold buildup. This can cause musty odors or reduced cooling efficiency. In such cases, I usually clean it during spring to prevent odors and bacterial growth. It's best to have professionals perform the cleaning using specialized cleaners for internal pipes. If DIY, you can purchase bottled cleaner but must operate carefully to avoid damaging components. Remember that neglecting cleaning shortens AC lifespan, increases fuel consumption, and may trigger allergic reactions. After my last cleaning, cabin air became noticeably fresher and cooling became significantly faster.