Dirty Evaporator Coil Symptoms: Signs That Your Evaporator Coils Need to Be Cleaned

If you have central air conditioning, there's a good chance you have an evaporator coil. These coils transfer heat from your home's air to the refrigerant. Over time, these coils can get dirty and cause various problems. In this blog post, we'll go over some of the most common dirty evaporator coil symptoms so that you can be on the lookout for them in your own home. Keep reading to learn more.

Here are common symptoms and signs of a dirty evaporator coil to keep an eye out for:

Poor Cooling

Poor cooling is one of the most common symptoms of a dirty evaporator coil. If your evaporator coil is covered in dirt and debris, it won't be able to absorb heat from your home's air effectively. As a result, your air conditioner won't be able to cool your home as effectively as it could if the coil was clean.

Air Conditioning Runs Longer

Another symptom of a dirty evaporator coil is that your air conditioning unit will run for longer before reaching the desired temperature. This is because the dirt and debris on the coil act as an insulator, preventing heat from being absorbed effectively. As a result, your air conditioner will have to work harder and run for longer periods of time to reach the desired temperature.

Frost During Operation

If you notice frost or ice buildup on your evaporator coil during operation, it's a sign that the coil is dirty and needs to be cleaned. This happens because the dirt and debris on the coil prevent heat from being absorbed properly, causing the refrigerant to become too cold. The cold refrigerant then causes water vapor to condense on the coil, resulting in frost or ice buildup.

Higher Energy Bills

A clogged evaporator coil can also cause your furnace to work harder than necessary. If your air conditioner has to work harder due to a dirty coil, it will use more energy and cost you more money each month. Plus, if your air conditioner runs longer due to a dirty coil, this will also lead to higher energy bills.

Reduced Airflow

When the evaporator coils are dirty, they can block airflow through your home's heating and cooling system. This happens because the dirt and debris on the coil can restrict airflow, causing your air conditioner to work harder to push air through the restricted area. As a result, you may notice reduced airflow from your vents when your evaporator coil is dirty.

Why Is It Important to Keep your Evaporator Coil Clean?

Keeping the evaporator coil clean is important for several reasons.

Coil Life Expectancy

One of the primary reasons it is important to keep the coil clean is that it can help extend the coil's life. A dirty coil can cause the unit to work harder, leading to premature wear and tear. Additionally, a dirty coil can reduce the unit's efficiency, increasing energy costs.

Reduced Repair Costs

Keeping the coil clean can also help to reduce repair costs over time. A dirty coil is more likely to break down or require repairs than a clean one, so keeping it clean can save you money in the long run. Additionally, a clean coil is also more efficient, so you may see a reduction in your energy bills as well.

Improved Comfort

Another reason to keep the coil clean is that it can improve your comfort level in your home. A dirty coil can make your home feel stuffy and uncomfortable, so keeping it clean can help you breathe more easily. A clean coil will also make your unit run quieter, so you won't be bothered by any loud noises coming from your unit due to cleaning the evaporator coil in the furnace.

Have an HVAC Specialist Clean Your Coils

If your evaporator coil is showing any of these signs, it's time to call Midwest Duct Cleaning. Our experienced technicians can inspect and clean your furnace promptly and effectively. We use professional-grade tools and techniques to ensure that your evaporator coil is spotless, has improved energy efficiency, and is maintained in peak condition. Don't let a dirty evaporator coil strain your heating and cooling system — call Midwest Duct Cleaning today!