HVAC Evaporator Coil Replacement
Deep down inside your heating or cooling system, there’s a special part called the evaporator coil that runs the show. This is the part responsible for regulating the temperature in your home, supplying cooling refrigerant (in an AC system) or heat exchange (in a heating system) as needed throughout the year. You might even say that your comfort relies on your HVAC evaporator coil, because when it breaks, your entire system could go dark.
Time for an Evaporator Coil Replacement
How do you know it’s time to replace your HVAC coil? You may start to suspect a faulty or worn-out coil if your HVAC system loses function or efficiency, refrigerant leaks, or short cycling (when your system turns on and off frequently).
Why do coils fail? There are a couple of reasons. First, there’s wear and tear: over time, as your coil expands and contracts, the bonds that hold its components together begin to wear out, making the coil less and less efficient. It might also get clogged with dirt and dust, or it might freeze if there isn’t proper airflow. Vibration from the blower wheel or fan blade may cause a leak.
Signs It’s Time for a New Evaporator Coil
There are quite a few indicators that it’s time to get your system’s evaporator coil replaced. Here are a few of signs to watch out for:
Evidence of refrigerant oil in the condensate water The system requires refrigerant to be added every year Damaged coil fins
How Does an Evaporator Coil Replacement Work?
Get an assessment of your HVAC system
An HVAC specialist will assess your heating or cooling system and find the source of your issue. If your coil’s in really bad shape, you might actually save money overall by replacing your entire system. Your technician will discuss that option if it makes sense for you.
Review the estimate with the specialist
You will be quoted based on the type of furnace you have and the type of coil it requires. You have options, so don’t be afraid to ask questions!
Install your HVAC evaporator coil
An HVAC technician will come to your house to replace your system’s old evaporator coil with a new one. This typically takes between 4-7 hours, depending on the service provider and their schedule.
Looking for More Info
Check out these articles that dive deeper into the parts, processes, and preparation that go into getting a new evaporator coil.
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