Homeowners in Florida rely heavily on their AC to keep their homes cool and comfortable, especially during relentlessly hot summer days. Panic sets in when the air conditioner isn’t cooling effectively or stops working altogether. Your mind flashes with all the possibilities, including a whole system replacement. Evaporator coil failure is common in middle-aged and older HVAC systems in Florida. Due to the intense cooling demands of our tropical climate, it’s not uncommon for the coil to wear out before the unit.
If a failed evaporator coil has left your AC out of commission, how do you decide if repairing it is worth the cost or if it’s time to replace the entire unit? To help you make an informed decision, let’s learn what the evaporator coil does, how to spot signs of trouble, and when a total AC replacement might be the better option.
What Does the Evaporator Coil Do?
Evaporator coils are a critical component in your HVAC system; without them, there is no cool air. The coil is filled with refrigerant that absorbs heat and moisture from the ambient air. As warm air blows across the coil, it is chilled and delivered into your living space, cooling your home. When your coil performs correctly, it cools and dehumidifies your indoor air to keep you and your family comfortable.
Signs Your Evaporator Coil Needs Replacement
Evaporator coils typically last several years but can wear out or sustain damage. Here are some indicators that your evaporator coil is bad:
Reduced Cooling Capacity
If your AC is not cooling your living space well, it may indicate evaporator coil issues.
Ice Build-up
Ice on your coil is a common sign of refrigerant or airflow issues.
- Low refrigerant levels
- Dirty air filters
- Blower motor malfunction
- Ductwork issues
Coil Corrosion
Over time, cleaners and refrigerants can wear away or corrode the lines, which weakens the coil and causes failure.
Leaks
If your coil is losing refrigerant, it could be a sign of damage.
HVAC System Age
If your air conditioner is over seven years old, it may be time to replace the evaporator coil. After years of constant use, the coil and other components break down.
Dirty Coils
Sometimes, inefficient cooling is due to dirty coils. Dust, debris and mold buildup can weaken the coils and cleaning them will only lead to leaks and, possibly, further damage to the unit.
Should I Replace Just the Coil or the Entire Air Conditioner?
While replacing the evaporator coil might seem cheaper, it’s essential to consider the long-term impact. Your AC system relies on the indoor evaporator and outdoor condenser coils to work efficiently. Replacing just the evaporator coil can create a mismatch, leading to reduced efficiency, higher energy bills, and potentially a shorter lifespan for your system.
If your AC unit is over 10 to 15 years old, or if the repair costs approach half the price of a new system, replacing the entire unit is often the wiser choice. If your system contains a phased-out refrigerant such as R22, your coil is also obsolete, so AC replacement is necessary. However, if the unit is relatively new and in good condition, replacing just the coil may be a viable option.
Preventing Evaporator Coil Damage
Whether you decide to install a new AC or swap out the compromised evaporator coil, maintenance is vital to extending the life of your coil. Preventative maintenance addresses issues to keep your system running efficiently and avoid causing stress on the operating system and components like the coil. Routine maintenance also ensures your coils are clean, have optimal refrigerant levels, and have no leaks.
Request Your Evaporator Coil or New AC Installation Quote
Deciding which route to take—replacing the coil or installing a new air conditioner—can be difficult for homeowners. Proper information is required to understand which choice is the most cost-effective long-term.
If you’re experiencing cooling issues, consult a professional HVAC company like First Degree Air Conditioning. They’ll assess the condition of your current system and provide their expert recommendation, plus a quote for a new coil and a new system. With their assistance, you can confidently decide to maximize your investment and keep your home comfortable for years to come.
