Evaporator coils are an important part of your air conditioning unit and require proper maintenance to increase their lifespan. In this article, we will explain what an evaporator coil is, the signs that your coil may be damaged, and how to maintain it correctly. 

Keep in mind that some of the signs of damage outlined in this article may also be caused by other problems with your AC unit. The only way to know for sure is to consult with a professional.

What is an HVAC Evaporator Coil?

The evaporator coil is responsible for collecting heat in your home. An air conditioning unit doesn’t produce its own heat; it uses recycled heat from throughout your home to keep you cool.

When you adjust the intensity of your air conditioning, the evaporator coil sucks in hot air and disperses cold air. In most homes, the evaporator coil is located inside the air handler, next to the blower fan.

What are the Signs of a Damaged Evaporator Coil?

There are many signs that may suggest your evaporator coil is damaged, however, here are some of the most common ones.

Warm Air

One of the most common signs of a faulty evaporator coil is when your HVAC unit is blowing out warm air. Since the evaporator coil is designed to collect the warm air from your home and blow out cold air, if the air is warm, it’s time to talk to an HVAC repair specialist.

It is important to note, however, that warm air could mean a number of other things such as an issue with the compressor, or the outside unit. A specialist will thoroughly review your unit and determine the root cause of the issue. 

Leaking Water

If your air conditioning unit is leaking water, it could mean that there is something wrong with the evaporator coil. In most cases, a leak suggests there is a build-up of frost on the coil which has caused the condensate line to flood. 

You may notice some condensation from time to time, however, it typically becomes a problem when water is leaking from the unit.

Strange Noises

A common side effect of a broken evaporator coil is strange noises coming from your AC unit. Noises could be coming from the outside or indoor unit. Regardless, if you notice these noises, it’s important to talk to a professional who can have a look at your HVAC system.

While strange noises may suggest there is something wrong with the coil, it could also be related to other issues, such as loose parts or a broken fan motor.

How Can You Make an Evaporator Coil Last Longer?

The best way to preserve your evaporator coil is to clean it regularly. If you’re using air conditioning on a regular basis, we recommend cleaning it monthly. If the unit is not used often, you can clean it every 3-6 months.

To clean your evaporator coil, turn off the electricity in your home and then mix some detergent and water together in a spray bottle. Spray the coils and let the mixture sit for a few minutes to help loosen the dirt and debris. Wipe away any excess water and you’re good to go!

Let us Help!

Protect your home and family from the heat by ensuring your AC unit is running smoothly. If you’re worried that your evaporator coil may be damaged, connect with Heat Mechanical Cooling & Heating.

Our trusted team of professionals has proudly served Waxahachie and Ellis County for over 10 years. Let us help you stay cool and protect your HVAC system. Call us today at 972-937-0697 or fill out our contact form.