4 Signs You Need an Evaporator Coil Replacement

August 07, 2024

Your Fredericksburg, VA home’s air conditioning system contains two coils, one of which is the evaporator coil. This serpentine tubing accepts refrigerant from the compressor, explains the Department of Energy. The cold refrigerant flows through the evaporator coil, and the air handler blows air from your home over the coil. A problem with the evaporator coil disrupts this process. If you notice any of the following four signs, you could need a prompt evaporator coil replacement.

No Cooling

If the air from your home’s vents feels warm, this is a sign of an evaporator coil problem. The coil may be dirty and in need of a professional tune-up. It’s also possible that the coil may have damage that necessitates a replacement.

Short Cycling

Short cycling happens when your air conditioner turns on for less than one minute, stays off for a minute, then turns on again. These rapid startups cause excessive wear on the system’s motor. A damaged evaporator coil is a common cause of short cycling in air conditioners.

Unusual Sounds

When your air conditioning system is functioning properly, the indoor unit should be quiet. You may hear it click on, and you may hear the whirring of the fan. If you start to hear unusual banging sounds, there could be a crack or debris affecting the coil. If you hear a hissing sound, refrigerant may be leaking out of the coil. These situations require an evaporator coil replacement.

Air Conditioner Won’t Cycle

If your air conditioner won’t turn on, its safety limit switch may have engaged. This may happen for a number of reasons, such as a refrigerant leak in the evaporator coil. A cut, corrosion or another type of damage in the coil could cause the refrigerant to leak out of the system. The low-pressure level engages the unit’s safety limit switch.

For more information about evaporator coil installation, take a look at Total Comfort’s air conditioning services, or contact us today.