When summer hits Kansas, we’re not just dealing with high temps — we’re also dealing with Kansas cotton floating through the air. Those fluffy, white cottonwood seeds may look harmless, but they can do serious damage to your AC system if you’re not careful. At De Hart Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we see this every year — systems overworking, cooling poorly, or shutting down altogether, often because the outdoor condenser is clogged with debris, especially cottonwood fluff.
Why Your Condenser Needs Cleaning
Your outdoor condenser unit plays a critical role in your AC system. It releases the heat pulled from your home. When the coils inside get blocked or covered, airflow is restricted and your system can’t “breathe.” This leads to:
✅ Reduced cooling efficiency
✅ Higher energy bills
✅ Strain on system components
✅ Shortened equipment lifespan
✅ Risk of system overheating or breakdown
The Kansas Cotton Problem
Kansas cotton, or cottonwood fluff, is light and travels far — and it LOVES to stick to your condenser coils. Once it starts to build up, it forms a thick layer that blocks airflow, essentially wrapping your condenser in a blanket while it’s trying to cool your home. It’s one of the most common seasonal culprits we see in the Midwest.
How Often Should You Clean Your Condenser?
We recommend checking your outdoor unit monthly during heavy cottonwood season (usually late spring through summer) and giving it a gentle rinse with a garden hose — spraying from the inside out if possible. Just be sure to turn off the power first for safety.
Even better? Schedule a professional AC maintenance visit with De Hart. We’ll deep-clean your unit, inspect for early signs of wear, and make sure your system is running at peak performance.
Let’s Keep Your System Clear & Cool
A clean condenser means a more efficient system, fewer breakdowns, and lower bills. Don’t let Kansas cotton sneak up on your system this year. Give us a call, and let’s get your unit cleaned and ready for the heat!