How to Clean Car AC Evaporator, Follow the Steps!

How to clean the car ac evaporator can be done in the following ways. In maintaining comfort and health while driving, maintenance of the air conditioning system (AC) in a car is an important step that should not be ignored. One of the important components in the AC system is the evaporator, which plays a role in cooling the air before it is blown into the cabin. However, over time, dirt, dust and moisture can collect on the surface of the evaporator, reducing cooling efficiency and threatening the air quality inside the vehicle.

In this TransTRACK article, we will detail the steps you need to take to clean your car’s air conditioning evaporator. From setting up the appliance to the final rinsing stage, we’ll guide you through the process, ensuring that each step is taken correctly for optimal results.

How the AC Evaporator Works

The evaporator in the air conditioning system (AC) is a component that plays a role in the process of cooling the air in the room. Evaporators work by utilizing the basic principle that when liquid evaporates, it will absorb heat from the surrounding environment.

In this process, the evaporator functions as the entry point for heat from indoor air into the air conditioning system. Refrigerant which undergoes a phase change from liquid to gas enables efficient heat absorption from the surrounding environment, which in turn results in cold air being blown back into the room.

It is important to keep the evaporator clean of dirt and dust, as this accumulation can reduce the efficiency of heat exchange and the overall performance of the A/C system. Regular maintenance and cleaning will help maintain optimal performance of your evaporator and air conditioning system.

How To Clean Car AC Evaporator?

How to clean a car AC evaporator is an important process to maintain air conditioning performance and air quality in the cabin. Here are more detailed steps for cleaning a car air conditioner evaporator:

1. Turn off the car engine and prepare cleaning tools

Make sure the car engine is off and parked in a safe place. Prepare all necessary tools and materials, including protective gloves, clean cloth, AC evaporator cleaning fluid, and tools that may be needed to open access.

2. Find out the location of the Car AC Evaporator

The location of the AC evaporator may vary depending on the model and make of the car. Usually, the evaporator is located inside the dashboard near the air blower area.

3. Open the Glove Box, Then Remove the AC Filter

Open the glove box drawer carefully. Some cars may have a latch or clip that must be removed first.

Once the drawer is open, look for the cabin air filter which is generally located behind the glove box drawer. Remove the filter by removing the fasteners.

4. Locate the Blower Location

The blower is the component that moves air through the evaporator. The blower is usually located near the evaporator area, and you may need to remove some panels or screws to access it.

5. Use Cleaning Liquid

Use a special AC evaporator cleaning fluid recommended by the manufacturer or mechanic. This liquid is designed to clean dirt, mold and bacteria that may stick to the surface of the evaporator.

Follow the directions on the packaging for the cleaning solution for proper dilution and use.

6. Get a New Car AC Filter

If your cabin air filter is old or dirty, consider replacing it with a new one. A clean filter will help maintain air quality in the cabin.

7. Turn on the Car Engine and AC

Start the engine and turn on the air conditioner at the highest setting with outside air circulating.

8. Spray cleaning fluid into the blower through the AC filter hole

Through the hole where the cabin air filter is usually placed, spray the cleaning fluid towards the blower and evaporator. Make sure the liquid is evenly distributed and covers all areas that need cleaning.

9. Turn off the car engine then wait for the foam to come out of the ventilation hose

Turn off the machine after spraying cleaning fluid. Wait a few moments for foam to appear from the ventilation hose around the evaporator.

10. Clean the AC Vent Hose So It Isn’t Clogged

Check the AC vent hose to make sure there is no foam or clogged debris. Clean the hose carefully if needed.

11. Restart Machine and AC for Flushing

Turn on the engine and AC again. Let the system run for a few minutes to rinse any excess cleaning fluid from the evaporator.

When finished, reinstall the cabin air filter and glove box drawer. This process helps ensure that your car’s air conditioning evaporator is clean and performing optimally. However, keep in mind that this process may vary slightly depending on your car model, and if you are unsure, it is better to seek assistance from an experienced technician or repair shop.

Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some mistakes you should avoid when cleaning your car’s AC evaporator:

1. Using Unsuitable Cleaning Fluid

• Issue: Cleaning fluids that are not specifically designed for AC evaporators can damage metal components or evaporator fins. Harsh chemicals can also leave a harmful residue.
• Solution: Use only the recommended specialized cleaning fluid for car air conditioners.

2. Using Rough Tools

• Problems: Coarse-bristled brushes or sharp tools can damage the delicate evaporator fins, reducing the efficiency of the air conditioner.
• Solution: Use a soft-bristled brush or gentle cleaning tool to avoid damage.

3. Not Turning Off the Car Engine and Electricity

• Issue: Cleaning the evaporator without turning off the engine or disconnecting the power may cause a risk of short circuit or injury.
• Solution: Make sure the car is off, the key is removed, and the AC electrical system is off before starting cleaning.

4. Spraying Too Much Liquid

• Issue: Over-spraying the fluid may cause the fluid to drip onto other components inside the dashboard, such as the electrical, and cause damage.
• Solution: Use the liquid sparingly according to the instructions for use on the product.

5. Disassembling the Dashboard Without Enough Knowledge

• Issue: Dismantling the dashboard without understanding its structure can cause damage to panels or cables, leading to additional repair costs.
• Solution: Study the car manual or consult a professional technician if in doubt.

6. Ignoring the cabin filter

• Issue: Not cleaning or replacing the cabin filter can make the evaporator dirty again quickly, making cleaning efforts less effective.
• Solution: Always check and replace the cabin filter if it becomes dirty or unfit for use.

7. Not Drying the Evaporator Well

• Problems: Moisture left on the evaporator can trigger mold and bacteria growth, leading to unpleasant odors and reduced air quality.
• Solution: Make sure the evaporator is completely dry before reassembling the dashboard or turning on the air conditioner.

8. Ignoring Surrounding Components

• Issue: Not protecting other components around the evaporator, such as wiring and electronic systems, can cause damage from exposure to cleaning fluids.
• Solution: Use cloth or plastic to cover sensitive components during the cleaning process.

9. Not Doing a Final Check

• Problems: Not double-checking the results of cleaning or reinstallation can lead to problems such as fluid leaks, poorly sealed panels, or a malfunctioning air conditioner.
• Solution: Do a final check to make sure everything is installed properly and the air conditioner is functioning normally.

10. Neglecting the Cleaning Routine

• Issue: Waiting until the air conditioner emits a bad odor or is not working optimally before cleaning the evaporator can cause further damage.
• Solution: Perform regular cleaning, according to the recommended maintenance schedule.

Due to the AC Evaporator Not Having Been Cleaned

Not cleaning the evaporator of a car air conditioner regularly can have several negative repercussions on the performance of the air conditioner and the quality of the air in the cabin. The following are some of the consequences that may occur if the AC evaporator is not cleaned:

Decreased Cooling Performance

Dirt, dust, and mold that accumulate on the surface of the evaporator can hinder the efficient exchange of heat between the air and the refrigerant. As a result, the cooling system will not work effectively, and the temperature in the cabin may not reach the desired level.

Increased Energy Consumption

When the AC performance decreases, the system will work harder to reach the desired temperature. This will lead to an increase in energy and fuel consumption because car engines have to work harder to produce sufficient cooling.

Poor Air Quality

A dirty evaporator can be a breeding ground for mold, bacteria and other germs. The air that passes through the evaporator will be contaminated with these microorganisms and can cause bad odors and health problems such as allergies and respiratory diseases.

Frost or Water Flowing Inside the Cabin

Dirt that accumulates on the surface of the evaporator can interfere with airflow and cause frost or water to flow inside the car cabin. This can interfere with the comfort of the driver and passengers.

System Crash

Over time, the accumulation of dirt and moisture on the surface of the evaporator can damage components such as the blower and motor. If water continues to collect and doesn’t drain properly, it can also cause corrosion of metal parts.

Higher Repair Costs

If the evaporator becomes very dirty or damaged due to uncleanness, repair or replacement costs can be very high. Over time, untreated damage can spread to other parts of the A/C system, compounding repair costs.

Therefore, it is very important to clean the AC evaporator regularly. It is recommended to clean the evaporator at least once a year or more frequently if you are frequently in dusty or humid environments. If you are not comfortable doing the cleaning yourself, you can contact a repair shop or an experienced car air conditioner for proper maintenance and cleaning.

How long does it take to clean the AC evaporator?

The time it takes to clean a car air conditioning evaporator can vary depending on several factors, such as the level of dirt present, your experience with cleaning, and the make and model of your car. In general, the process of cleaning an AC evaporator can take around 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity. The following factors affect cleaning duration:

Evaporator Accessibility

Some cars may have a more complex design, requiring the removal of some components or panels to access the evaporator. If access to the evaporator is difficult, the cleaning process may take longer.

Dirt Level

If the evaporator is very dirty or contaminated with mold and bacteria, the cleaning process may take more time to ensure all dirt is removed properly.

Your Experience

If you are used to doing the cleaning yourself and have done it a few times before, you may be able to complete the process more quickly. However, if it’s your first time doing cleaning, it may take you longer to understand the steps and procedures.

Equipment and Materials

Using the right tools and materials, such as recommended cleaning fluids, can also affect how quickly you can complete the cleaning.

Additional Complications

In some cases, you may encounter additional issues that require attention during the cleaning process, such as components that are damaged or need repair.

Despite these factors, cleaning the AC evaporator shouldn’t take too long. However, it is important to perform a thorough and thorough cleaning to ensure that all dirt and contaminants are removed from the surface of the evaporator. If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about carrying out the cleaning yourself, it is better to seek the assistance of an experienced technician or repair shop to ensure that the cleaning is carried out properly and efficiently.

Now, with advanced technology such as the Vehicle Maintenance System from TransTRACK, the process of cleaning a car air conditioner evaporator is easier and more structured. By integrating evaporator cleaning steps into this system, vehicle owners can easily manage and track their vehicle maintenance.

By utilizing the Vehicle Maintenance System technology from TransTRACK, you can be more organized in caring for your vehicle, including cleaning the AC evaporator. With a regular schedule, timely notifications, and accurate step-by-step guidance, you can ensure that your car’s air conditioner continues to function properly and that the air in the cabin is always fresh and clean.