During the hottest months of the year, most people will rely on their air conditioning systems to help them stay cool. Air conditioning systems use a vital component called an evaporator coil to cool the surrounding air. If this part of the system malfunctions, the air conditioner will no longer be able to do its job properly.

This is why it is crucial to know how to spot problems with the air conditioner’s evaporator coil. Identifying problems early on will allow the homeowner to repair the coil or replace it before it causes any trouble. 

Signs of a Damaged Evaporator Coil

It is important to spot any potential problems with an air conditioner’s evaporator coil. Here are a few things to look out for that may be indicators of a malfunction.

1 – Frost on the Equipment

An air conditioner uses the evaporator coil to cool the warm air that is sucked into the machine and release the cooled air from the air vent. If the coil stops working properly, it will stop absorbing the heat. The refrigerant will also begin to freeze your air conditioner. If you ever notice frost on your unit, turn it off and contact an air conditioner specialist.

2 – Leaks Coming from the Machine

When your air conditioning unit starts leaking, it may be a sign of a damaged evaporator coil. If you notice a leak, it may be caused by a frozen system. It may be caused by frost buildup that had melted when the machine was turned off.

3 – Warm Airflow

If warm air is escaping from the air conditioning machine, it is an obvious sign that the machine is not working as it should. This may be an indication that the evaporator coil has completely stopped working because the air conditioner is no longer able to cool the surrounding air.

4 – Unusual Sounds

On extremely hot days, your air conditioner may be working ‘round the clock to help control the temperatures in your home. If you notice strange and unusual noises coming from the machine, this may mean that it may be having a difficult time reaching the cooling element of the coil. 

To Repair or to Replace? That Is the Question

If you are not well-versed in how to repair an evaporator coil or air conditioning system in the first place, it will do you well to call an air conditioning specialist to get to the bottom of the problem and see whether the coil needs to be replaced or if it can still be repaired.

Conclusion

If your air conditioner is not cooling as well as it used to, it may be a sign of a damaged evaporator coil. It is crucial to have the coil repaired or replaced to get your air conditioning system working properly again. Now that you are aware of the telltale signs of a malfunctioning evaporator coil, you will be able to spot potential problems early and hopefully have the damage repaired before it gets serious.

Should you need any help with your air conditioner or with any part of your HVAC system, you can rely on Emergency Plumbing Heating to get the machine up and running again in no time! We offer 24-hour AC repair services and are ready to help whenever you need us. Give us a call today!