If you’re noticing a strange smell or hearing weird noises coming from your air conditioning, it could be an indication that something is wrong with your evaporator coil.
Although it might seem like a daunting task to tackle, replacing your evaporator coil can save you both time and money in the long run — not to mention keeping your home cool and comfortable during hot summer days.
Here are some signs to look out for that indicate your AC needs evaporator coil replacement.
1. Poor Airflow
If you notice that your AC is not working as effectively as it used to, it might be a sign that the evaporator coil needs replacing. When the coils get dirty or clogged, they can cause poor airflow and reduce the efficiency of your air conditioning system. Additionally, AC evaporator coils can freeze up if the air filter is clogged, meaning it won’t be able to properly absorb heat. While you may be tempted to clean the coil yourself, it’s best to have a professional do the job in order to ensure that the coils are replaced correctly. This will help to prevent any further issues and maximize the efficiency of your AC.
2. High Energy Bills
Malfunctioning evaporator coils can also cause your energy bills to skyrocket. If you find that your energy bills have been abnormally high, and haven't seen any changes in your regular usage, it may be a sign of faulty coils. To keep the air flowing around your home, the AC needs to work harder than usual which leads to higher electricity usage and a bigger expense on your next bill. It's important to address this issue right away, as the longer you wait could mean more costly repairs later on.
3. Odd Noises
When your air conditioner suddenly starts making strange noises, it’s never a good sign. An AC unit should run relatively quietly, so if you hear banging, clanking, or other odd sounds coming from your unit, it could be an indication that something is wrong with the evaporator coil. It might also be a sign of a worn-out motor belt or some other part in need of replacement or repair. If you hear any unusual noises coming from your air conditioner, the best thing to do is call a professional HVAC technician as soon as possible.
4. Unpleasant Odors
The evaporator coil is responsible for cooling the air and reducing humidity levels in your home or office. If it’s not functioning properly, this can lead to odor buildup in the unit itself and in the ductwork connected to it. This can cause foul smells to come through vents when the AC is running. Common odors include musty smells, moldy scents, and even a burning smell. If these odors are persistent and won’t go away despite frequent cleaning of air filters or other maintenance tasks, then it may be time to consider replacing the evaporator coil.
5. Poor Temperature Control
If you find that the temperature in your home is not quite right, and it's fluctuating or doesn't match what the thermostat is set to, you may have an issue with your air conditioner's evaporator coil. It can cause a lack of proper temperature regulation, which means you may be running your AC more than necessary. If this is happening, it’s time to replace your evaporator coil before any further damage occurs. Additionally, if you're noticing that certain locations in your home are warmer or cooler than others, it could also be caused by a faulty evaporator coil.
6. Leaking Water
Have you noticed water leaking from your air conditioning system? This is a sure sign that the evaporator coil needs replacement. When an evaporator coil starts to fail, it can cause water to leak out of the system, which could damage other parts of your home if not addressed quickly. Have a trained technician inspect and replace your AC’s evaporator coil right away to prevent further damage. Also, be sure to ask them about any warranties that could help cover the cost of a new evaporator coil. If you don't take steps to replace the coil now, it could lead to more expensive repairs down the road.
The evaporator coil is a key component of an air conditioner and it’s important to be aware of the signs that indicate it needs replacing. If you notice any of these six symptoms in your AC unit, it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician as soon as possible. Replacing the evaporator coil can help restore the performance of your air conditioner and prevent more costly repairs in the future.
