🔧 1. Introduction: Mike’s Lesson on Coil Neglect
A few summers back, I noticed my Goodman system wasn’t cooling right. The air felt weak, and after pulling the access panel, I saw my A-Coil frozen solid. I learned the hard way that coil maintenance isn’t optional.
3 Ton Horizontal Goodman Cased Coil with Built-in TXV - CHPTA3630B3
Neglecting your coil leads to:
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Higher energy bills.
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Reduced cooling capacity.
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Water leaks from clogged drains.
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System breakdowns when you least expect it.
Since then, I’ve built a seasonal coil maintenance checklist. I’ll walk you through it step by step so your Goodman A-Coil keeps running smooth year after year.
🧼 2. Regular Cleaning Tasks
Keeping the coil clean is the foundation of good maintenance. Dust, dirt, and pet hair restrict airflow, reduce efficiency, and even cause coils to freeze.
2.1 Change or Clean Filters Monthly
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Dirty filters choke airflow → coil can freeze.
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Swap disposable filters every 1–3 months.
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Wash reusable filters with mild soap and water, then dry completely.
📖 Energy Star recommends changing filters regularly.
2.2 Clean Coil Surfaces
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Inspect fins for dirt or lint.
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Use a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment.
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For deeper cleaning, apply a non-corrosive foaming coil cleaner.
📖 The U.S. Department of Energy highlights coil cleaning as a key maintenance task
2.3 Clear Drain Lines
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Pour a cup of distilled vinegar or warm water with mild detergent into the drain line every few months.
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Use compressed air to blow out blockages.
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A clogged drain causes leaks and mold growth.
2.4 Straighten Bent Fins
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Bent fins restrict airflow.
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Use a fin comb tool to straighten them carefully.
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Be gentle — fins are fragile aluminum.
🌡️ 3. Seasonal Maintenance Checklist
I break my maintenance into seasons so I never miss a step.
🌸 Spring (Pre-Cooling Season)
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✅ Clean A-Coil with foam cleaner.
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✅ Inspect drain pan for cracks or standing water.
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✅ Flush condensate line.
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✅ Replace air filter.
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✅ Check for refrigerant oil stains (possible leaks).
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✅ Test thermostat before the first hot day.
☀️ Summer
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✅ Monitor airflow — weak air could mean frost on the coil.
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✅ Watch for ice buildup or sweating around suction line.
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✅ Check indoor humidity — high levels may signal a dirty coil.
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✅ Inspect TXV bulb insulation.
🍂 Fall
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✅ Clean coil again after heavy summer use.
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✅ Check and re-seal duct joints for leaks.
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✅ Replace air filter before heating season.
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✅ Inspect insulation around refrigerant lines.
❄️ Winter
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✅ If paired with a heat pump, check coil for frost in defrost cycle.
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✅ Inspect condensate drain if running with a furnace.
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✅ Check blower motor for dust buildup.
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✅ Replace filter if using system for heating.
📖 ASHRAE recommends seasonal maintenance for HVAC longevity.
🛠️ 4. Common Issues Prevented by Routine Care
From my own experience, most “big” coil problems could’ve been avoided with a little preventive care.
4.1 Frozen Coils
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Causes: Dirty filter, blocked drain, low refrigerant, restricted airflow.
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Prevention: Regular cleaning and airflow checks.
4.2 Musty Odors
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Causes: Mold growth in the coil pan or drain line.
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Prevention: Flush drain regularly, keep coil dry when system is off.
4.3 Water Leaks
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Causes: Clogged drain line or cracked drain pan.
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Prevention: Inspect and clean drain lines seasonally.
4.4 Reduced Efficiency
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Causes: Dirty coil surfaces restrict heat transfer.
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Prevention: Clean fins and filters.
📖 The EPA points out that dirty coils reduce efficiency by up to 30% (EPA – HVAC Maintenance).
🧰 5. DIY vs. Pro: Knowing the Difference
I handle most of the basics myself, but I know when to step aside.
What You Can DIY
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Filter replacement.
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Surface coil cleaning.
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Drain line flushing.
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Visual inspections for leaks or ice.
When to Call a Pro
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Refrigerant checks (requires gauges and EPA certification).
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Deep cleaning with chemical washes.
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Electrical inspections.
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Coil replacement if cracked or leaking.
📖 HVAC.com breaks down when to hire a pro.
Mike’s Rule: “If it involves refrigerant gauges or wiring, I let my HVAC tech handle it. It’s cheaper than messing it up myself.”
✅ 6. Mike’s Seasonal Checklist (Printable)
Here’s my homeowner-friendly version. Print it and stick it on your utility closet door.
🌸 Spring
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Clean coil with foam cleaner
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Inspect drain pan and lines
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Replace filter
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Test thermostat
☀️ Summer
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Watch for ice or sweating lines
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Monitor airflow
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Check humidity levels
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Inspect TXV insulation
🍂 Fall
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Clean coil again
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Seal duct joints
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Replace filter
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Inspect refrigerant line insulation
❄️ Winter
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Inspect for frost (heat pump only)
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Check condensate drainage
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Dust blower motor
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Replace filter if heating
🏠 7. Conclusion: A Coil That Lasts Longer
Your Goodman A-Coil might be tucked away, but it’s the heart of your comfort system. With just a few hours of attention each year, you’ll:
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Extend its lifespan.
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Avoid costly repairs.
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Keep your home comfortable year-round.
“An A-Coil is like a car engine — ignore it, and you’ll be stranded on the hottest day of the year. Stay ahead with simple maintenance, and it’ll run smooth for decades.” – Mike
In the next topic we will know more about: Troubleshooting Guide: What to Do If Your A-Coil Freezes or Leaks
