3 Signs That an AC Evaporator Coil Needs to Be Cleaned

Reasons to Get Professional Evaporator Coil Cleaning

Any air conditioner relies on a few key components like the evaporator coil, the condenser coil, the compressor, and the fans. The evaporator coil, located inside the indoor air handler unit, captures heat energy from the indoor air. A chemical refrigerant inside the coil is then pumped to the condenser coil in the outdoor unit, where the heat disperses into the outdoor air. The compressor pumps the refrigerant between the two coils.

Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on the evaporator coils, getting stuck to the condensation that forms on the coils as they absorb heat. This will interfere with the AC system’s ability to cool the home. So, by keeping the evaporator coils clean, homeowners will help ensure that their air conditioner works more effectively and efficiently and even help prolong the unit's life. So read on to discover three common signs that it’s time to clean the AC evaporator coils.

The AC Isn’t Cooling Properly

hotThe first sign of a dirty evaporator coil is if the home doesn’t seem to be getting cool enough. This loss of cooling power can occur if a layer of dirt and dust on the evaporator coil prevents the coil from fully absorbing heat from the air. So, as the blower fan pushes warm indoor air across the coil array, the air won’t get as cool as it usually would. This is why homeowners may notice warm air coming from the vents or a loss of cooling when the coils are dirty.

Of course, regularly replacing the air filters can help prevent dust and debris from getting into the system and onto the AC coils in the first place. However, some may still accumulate, which is why regular evaporator coil cleanings are essential to the correct function of air conditioning.

Frost or Ice on the Coils

frostIn some cases, dirt on the AC evaporator coils can lead to ice or frost formation. This is because the refrigerant running through the coils is very cold, which allows the heat transfer process to occur. But when the refrigerant can’t absorb heat, it doesn’t warm up as it usually would, causing the condensation on the coils to freeze.

This can create a snowball effect, where moisture from the air will condense on the icy coils and freeze, forming a thicker and thicker layer of ice on the coils. Not only will a frozen evaporator coil be unable to absorb heat from the air correctly, but the ice can also restrict airflow, resulting in a malfunctioning air conditioner. 

The AC Unit Runs Longer Than Normal

When the AC coils are dirty, the air conditioner will likely run for longer cycles since bringing the air down to the desired temperature on the thermostat will take longer. These longer cycles will mean more energy consumption and wear and tear on the unit, so if homeowners notice that their AC runs for long periods before shutting off, they should call an HVAC professional to inspect the system.

In general, evaporator coil cleaning should be done during an annual air conditioner maintenance visit, but it may be needed if these signs are present. But homeowners should leave coil cleaning to the professionals, as it is a delicate process that requires special tools, and doing it wrong can damage the coils and the thin metal heat transfer fins surrounding them. But by enlisting the help of an HVAC contractor to keep the AC coils clean, homeowners can enjoy a more energy-efficient air conditioner that performs better and lasts longer!

About Stuart Pro Heating & Air

Stuart Pro Heating & Air is a family-owned and operated business serving Buford and the surrounding areas since 1997. They offer upfront pricing, on-time arrivals, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for evaporator coil services in Buford, GA.

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Haunting Signs That a Home's Air Conditioner Needs Repairs

Warnings That a Home Has a Broken AC

Unexplained noises and the temperature dropping in certain rooms and not others may be purported signs of supernatural entities. Still, most of the time, the culprit is a problem with the air conditioning system. Like any other appliance, a heating and cooling system will not last forever and eventually needs to be replaced or repaired. It usually doesn’t happen all at once, either. There are likely to be indicators that something is wrong. This article will discuss common signs that an air conditioner needs repair.

Banging, Rattling, and Whining Sounds

soundsThough machines make various humming and whirring sounds in their normal day-to-day functioning, loud or unusual sounds are more likely an indicator of a broken air conditioner. Banging, screeching, rattling, and clicking sounds coming from the system should be checked out by an HVAC professional. Below are some examples of sounds that can occur and what they might indicate:

  • Banging: This sound likely means something has come loose within the compressor and is now hitting the compressor casing. 
  • Rattling:  This can mean debris has become lodged in the outdoor unit or can indicate a serious electrical issue with the AC.
  • Squealing: Screeching, squealing, or whining all tend to point to a problem with the fan belt. There can also be compressor issues that cause this type of sound.
  • Clicking: This may indicate a need to replace the thermostat.
  • Hissing:  If an AC is hissing, there is likely to be damage to the air ducts. A torn duct can lead to poor performance.

A trained HVAC technician should be called to investigate these and any other unusual sounds that come from a home’s AC unit.

Malfunctioning Thermostat

thermostatA boat or sailing ship is driven by one of the smallest parts of the ship: the rudder. This is a good analogy for what a thermostat is to a heating and cooling system.  If it malfunctions, the entire system can go awry. Here are a few indicators that a thermostat is off:

  • Wildly varying temperatures during the day
  • AC is constantly cycling on and off
  • House just isn’t cooling
  • Higher energy costs

Unfortunately, some of these signs could also mean other problems with the system, so having a professional check out the home’s air conditioning system is vital.

Varying Temperatures Throughout the House

When some rooms cool down quickly while others tend never to reach the appropriate temperature, that is an example of uneven cooling. Though sun, insulation, and window placement can all affect the temperature in a room, this uneven cooling is not a normal problem to have with a whole home HVAC system.

It can be a sign of several different issues with an air conditioning system. These problems can stem from dirty air filters, air duct damage, and blocked vents, but they should be assessed by a professional to pinpoint the problem accurately.

About Stuart Pro Heating & Air

Stuart Pro Heating & Air has over two decades of experience serving Buford, GA, and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront pricing, on-time arrivals, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for air conditioning repair and maintenance in Buford, GA.