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This is a step-by-step guide to cleaning a Trane brand RTU condensing coil. The condensing coil is where the heat in the building is released, and if the coil is dirty or coated in cottonwood, this process will stop. Much like the insulation in our walls helps to keep heat in, the cottonwood will do the same to an air-conditioning unit, stopping the air-conditioning process.
Steps
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Locate a water source and inspect the unit. Find a water source, preferably an outside spigot that can be easily accessed for the job. Also, visually inspect the RTU, checking the intake air filters as well as the unit's operation.
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Connect the hose to the water source and run the hose to the RTU’s Location. There is often a lot of hose required to get the water to the roof. Ensure that your hose is leak-free and free from kinks.Advertisement
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Connect the spray nozzle to the hose and turn on the water source. Before you turn on the water, make sure you have your spray nozzle on the hose to avoid excess water from running onto the roof.
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De-energize the RTU at the circuit disconnect. It is very important to make sure the RTU is turned off or de-energized to avoid the chance of short circuits.
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Wear the correct personal protective equipment (PPE). Make sure you are wearing all the proper PPE, including Gloves, Boots, and safety glasses. The cleaning solution is corrosive and may chemically burn the skin if left on the skin for extended periods of time.
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Saturate the coil. Make sure the coil is saturated with water before you move on. Think of the coil as a sponge; a dry sponge doesn’t absorb as well as a damp one. We do not want our cleaning solution to be wasted.
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Fill the applicator with the coil cleaner and ensure it has the correct setting according to the manufacturer's suggestions. Fill the applicator per the manufacturer's instructions and make sure you have its setting correct for the application you are using it for.
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Apply the cleaning solution to the coils. Make sure to coat the coil completely with even, consistent strokes, making sure the cleaner is penetrating the coil.
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Wait. Depending on how dirty the coil is, this can be anywhere from 5-10 minutes. Check the cleaning solution you are using for the correct amount of time.
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Rinse thoroughly. Rinse the coil thoroughly from the top down, making sure to force water into the coil so all cleaner is rinsed out.
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Re-energize the unit and confirm the RTU is operating correctly. Re-energize the unit from the shutoff and wait for the unit to begin operation. Confirm everything is operating correctly.
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Clean up the area before you leave the roof. Clean the roof, including rinsing the cleaner into roof drains and disposing of empty cleaning containers and used PPE gear such as gloves. Leave the area clean.
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Tips
- Wind can drastically effect the outcome of cleaning these coils, so a clear sunny day is recommended.Thanks
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Warnings
- These cleaning products can be very caustic and should be used with caution. Follow the manufacturers directions on use and protective equipment.Thanks
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About This Article
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 10 times.
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