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[Radio Tech1964]

I'm wondering would it be safe to use a light coil cleaner similar to what I use for evaporator coils in AC servicing?  I have kept the filters clean since I reinstalled here where I'm located now. I had it located in the breech of the return duct and it was fairly dusty at out other location. The actual coil is not really seriously dirty but I've never cleaned it and I'm getting started servicing things for winter as I have time. Air handler today and boiler maybe next week if it's not monsoonal again!  I have used this Viper evaporator cleaner on a lot of occasions with no trouble and just wondering if anyone else had tried this approach. My wife considers me OCD but I just considering it doing the whole job,no short cuts LOL  Even on my own system LOL

Just to clarify this is for the outside of the exchanger,white vinegar makes a great back flush agent

Thanks Guys

WT

[Radio Tech1964]

I can report back that this works excellent!  I couldn't really see where mine was that dirty but after foaming it up and letting it set there was all kinds of brown foam coming from it. It did increase my air supply a little and that was greatly appreciated. Maybe not part of the yearly start up service but ever couple of years it seems it would make a difference.

[MarkP]

I cleaned mine last year, and it was really dirty!!!  It was used to heat the garage, and I took it outside and sprayed through the exterior with water, and not much came off.  I do a good bit of welding/fabrication/painting in the garage, so it wasn't going to come off easy.  I sprayed mine with Purple Power, let it set for about 5 minutes, and rinsed it liberally with warm water.  I know the Purple Power can be corrosive to aluminum, but I did my best to get it rinsed clear.  I'm not sure the efficiency improved, but it sure looked better.  I also installed a filter frame when I put it all back together.    No issues so far.

While I had it apart, I did flush the inside as well.  I filled it with white vinegar and let it soak, then a good rinse.   Much improved!