Your cooling system is comprised of many components. For cooling purposes, the evaporator coil is most important because it actually cools your indoor air. Learning more about this key component can help keep your cooling system running reliably when the weather heats up.
How an Evaporator Coil Functions
The evaporator sits inside your HVAC air handler cabinet hidden from view. This A-shaped coil of copper or aluminum tubing is the section of the system’s “refrigerant loop” where heat gets drawn out of the air. The compressor pushes pressurized refrigerant through an expansion valve first, so it enters the evaporator cold and able to absorb heat.
Here are some common issues that develop with evaporator coils and how to avoid them:
Refrigerant leaks
Normally, refrigerant stays contains within the coil’s tubing. Age, corrosion and other factors can cause tiny holes to form in the copper or aluminum, allowing refrigerant to leak out. Signs of leaks can include difficulty cooling your home and rising energy bills.
Freezing of the coil
If your system is losing refrigerant, the coil can start to ice up. Insufficient airflow over the coil can also cause it to freeze up. This can occur if you run the system with a clogged air filter, or have some registers obstructed or closed.
Dirt accumulation
Over time, a layer of debris can build up on the evaporator coil that inhibits the proper transfer of heat between the air and refrigerant. You’ll notice a decline in your system’s cooling capabilities, and an increase in its energy consumption.
Preventing Evaporator Coil Issues
You can avoid the above issues by taking these three easy steps:
- Maintain good airflow. Make sure your supply and return registers stay unobstructed, and keep the louvers fully open.
- Change your air filter. Check it monthly and replace it when there’s any visible dirt accumulation.
- Keep the coil clean. Schedule a professional maintenance visit before cooling season starts so a technician can clean built-up dirt off the coil.
To schedule preventive maintenance for your Lorain home’s cooling system and evaporator coil, contact us at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning.
Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area