As there are many parts of an HVAC system, one of the more important components is the evaporator coils. The evaporator coils are where the cooling of the air occurs. When the evaporator coils become compromised the entire cooling system is at risk. If the evaporator coils do not do their job, the air conditioning system will keep trying to perform which leads to premature wear and tear, overheating and more. Air Supply Heating & Air Conditioning will share signs and causes of a compromised or dirty evaporator coil.
How Do I Know if My Evaporator Coil is Dirty?
Dirty evaporator coils can reveal themselves through several telltale signs. If you notice any of these signs, it might be time to clean and or service your unit.
• Reduced Cooling Performance: If your air conditioner is not cooling as good as it used to, a dirty evaporator coil could be the culprit. Dirt and debris on the coil can prevent proper heat transfer, meaning your system has to work harder to cool your home.
• Increased Energy Usage: If your electricity bills have steadily increased, and you have not made any changes in your cooling usage, this may be a sign that your air conditioner is working harder than it should be. Dirty evaporator coils will cause the air conditioner to run more often and longer to try to cool down your home.
• Frozen Coils: If you can see ice forming on the evaporator coil or other components, this is often another sign the evaporator coils are dirty. The buildup of dirt can restrict airflow that needs to run over the coil, causing the temperature to drop and the condensation that forms on the coil will freeze.
• Bad Odors: A dirty coil will develop or trap in bacteria, mold and other fungi which can cause bad odors. If you notice odors such as a musty or burning smell in the air conditioner, overheating or the coils are covered in bacteria or fungi call your HVAC service.
• Air Conditioner Short Cycling: When your air conditioner turns on and off suddenly, this is what is known as short cycling. Short cycling can be due to a dirty evaporator coil. Since the evaporator coils are dirty, the heat cannot be absorbed properly which leads to longer cooling cycles and overheating.
How Do AC Evaporator Coils Dirty
Understanding why your evaporator coil gets dirty can help prevent evaporator coils from being dirty and leading to issues in the future.
• Neglected AC Maintenance: Regular air conditioner maintenance will include cleaning of the evaporator coil. If the unit has not been tuned up yet or it has been awhile since the last tune up, the coil can become dirty.
• Dirty Air Filters: The air filter’s job is to catch dust, dirt, and other airborne particles before they reach the evaporator coil. When the filters are dirty, that dirt or dust can make its way onto the evaporator coils causing a grimy layer that coats the coils.
• Ductwork Issues: Leaks or cracks in the ductwork can allow dust and debris into the system, which can then accumulate on the coil.
• Poor Indoor Air Quality: If your home’s air is full of contaminants due to pet dander, hair, dust mites, or pollen, these can circulate through your air conditioner and stick to the evaporator coil.
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Maintaining a clean evaporator coil is important for the efficiency and longevity of your air conditioning system. If you need help maintaining your HVAC system, contact Air Supply Heating & Air Conditioning today.