Signs Your Evaporator Coil Is Failing and What to Do About It
If your air conditioner isn’t keeping your home cool like it used to, you might be wondering: How do I tell if my evaporator coil is bad? The evaporator coil is a crucial component of your cooling system. When it stops working properly, you can experience everything from weak airflow to higher energy bills—and if left untreated, it could lead to a full system breakdown.
At Lochard HVAC, Plumbing, and Service, we’ve helped homeowners in Troy, Sidney, Bellefontaine, Piqua, Celina, and Tipp City get to the bottom of cooling issues quickly with expert AC repair services. Let’s break down the most common warning signs of a bad evaporator coil and when it’s time to call in a professional.
Common Signs of a Bad Evaporator Coil
Your evaporator coil plays a vital role in absorbing heat from inside your home. When it fails, your AC system can’t cool your home efficiently. Look out for these red flags:
- Warm air blowing from your vents: If your system is running but not cooling, a faulty coil might be the culprit.
- Frequent cycling or constant running: An inefficient coil can cause your system to overwork itself, leading to higher energy usage.
- Ice forming on the coil or refrigerant lines: A frozen evaporator coil is a strong indication of airflow issues or a refrigerant leak.
- Unusual noises: Hissing or bubbling sounds may point to a refrigerant leak from the coil.
- Musty or moldy odors: A damaged coil may trap moisture, which can lead to mold buildup inside your HVAC system.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to schedule AC maintenance to catch the issue before it becomes a more costly problem.
What Causes an Evaporator Coil to Go Bad?
Several factors can cause your evaporator coil to fail, including:
- Age and wear: Like any mechanical component, evaporator coils wear down over time.
- Poor airflow: Clogged air filters or blocked vents can lead to coil freezing and damage.
- Dirty coils: Without regular HVAC maintenance, dirt and debris can build up and reduce efficiency.
- Refrigerant issues: Low or leaking refrigerant can cause the coil to freeze and eventually crack.
If your unit is older or hasn’t had recent servicing, it might be time to consider an AC replacement instead of repeated repairs.
When to Call a Professional HVAC Technician
While some issues like replacing air filters can be done yourself, diagnosing and replacing a bad evaporator coil should be left to licensed professionals. Our technicians are trained to identify coil issues quickly and recommend the best solution—whether it’s a repair, recharge, or full system replacement.
In some cases, a bad evaporator coil may be a symptom of a larger issue, such as an aging HVAC system. If that’s the case, we can help you explore financing options to make a new system more affordable.
Reliable HVAC Service in Western Ohio
Whether you’re in West Milton, New Bremen, Anna, Jackson Center, Degraff, or Quincy, Lochard HVAC, Plumbing, and Service is your trusted local provider for HVAC repair and replacement. Our expert technicians can inspect your system, diagnose coil problems, and get your AC back to peak performance in no time.
Need Help With Your AC?
A failing evaporator coil can make your summer uncomfortable—but we’re here to help. If you’re unsure whether your coil is the issue, schedule an inspection with our team. With years of experience serving Western Ohio, we’ll ensure your comfort is restored quickly and professionally.
FAQs
How much does it cost to replace an evaporator coil?
The cost to replace an evaporator coil typically ranges from $600 to $2,000, depending on your AC unit’s size, type, and efficiency. Labor, refrigerant, and whether the coil is under warranty can all impact the total price. If your system is older or inefficient, a full system upgrade may be more cost-effective in the long run.
What is the evaporator coil?
The evaporator coil is the part of your air conditioning system responsible for absorbing heat from inside your home. Located inside the indoor unit, it works with the compressor and condenser to cool your space. If the coil is dirty, frozen, or leaking refrigerant, your AC won’t function properly and may start blowing warm air.
Is it worth replacing an evaporator coil?
In many cases, yes—but it depends on the age and condition of your HVAC system. If your AC is relatively new and under warranty, replacing the coil can restore performance. However, if the system is 10+ years old or has other issues, it may be smarter to consider a full AC replacement for better efficiency and reliability.
What is the average life of an evaporator coil?
On average, an evaporator coil lasts 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance. Factors like poor airflow, lack of regular servicing, dirty filters, and refrigerant leaks can shorten its lifespan. Scheduling routine HVAC tune-ups can help extend its life and improve system efficiency.
What happens if my evaporator coil is clogged?
A clogged evaporator coil can block airflow, reduce cooling performance, cause your system to freeze up, or lead to higher energy bills. It may also put extra strain on your compressor, which can cause it to overheat or fail. Cleaning or replacing the coil is necessary to avoid major breakdowns.
