The evaporator coil is an essential component of your air conditioning system, located in the indoor unit. It plays an important role in the heat exchange process by absorbing heat from indoor air, allowing the air conditioner system to provide cooled air throughout your space. However, like many other parts of an HVAC system, evaporator coils can become dirty over time, which can decrease efficiency, raise energy costs, and lead to potential breakdowns. Understanding why these coils get dirty and recognizing the signs that they need to be cleaned can help maintain the performance of your air conditioning system and extend its lifespan. Hal Mechanical will break down the causes for dirty evaporator coils and the signs they need to be cleaned.
Causes of Dirty Evaporator Coils
• Airborne Dust and Debris: As air moves through your air conditioning system, it carries fine particles of dust and debris. Although the air filter catches most of these, some can pass through, particularly if the filter is dirty or of low quality. Over time, these particles can accumulate on the evaporator coils, acting as an insulating layer that hampers their ability to absorb heat.
• Moisture and Humidity: Evaporator coils are naturally damp because they condense moisture from the air. This damp environment can attract dust and other particulates, which stick to the moist surface more readily than they would to a dry surface. High indoor humidity levels can exacerbate this problem, leading to faster buildup.
• Mold and Mildew Growth: Because evaporator coils are wet, they are prone to mold and mildew growth, especially if the dust and debris provide a nutrient source for these organisms. Mold and mildew not only block the airflow but can also spread spores through the air conditioner system, potentially affecting indoor air quality and your health.
Signs Evaporator Coils Need Cleaning
• Reduced Cooling Efficiency: If your air conditioner is not cooling as effectively as it used to, or if it takes longer to cool your home, dirty evaporator coils could be to blame. The dirt acts as an insulator, keeping the coils from absorbing heat effectively.
• Increased Energy Bills: Dirty coils force your air conditioning system to work harder, which consumes more energy. If your energy bills have increased without a corresponding increase in usage, it could indicate that your evaporator coils need cleaning.
• Ice on Evaporator Coils: Ice buildup on your evaporator coils is a telltale sign that they’re not operating efficiently. If the coils are dirty, the reduced airflow and insulated coils cannot absorb as much heat, causing the remaining condensate to freeze on the coils instead of being drained away.
• Poor Air Quality: If you start to notice an increase in respiratory issues among household members, or an increase in dust and poor odors, it could be a sign that your coils need cleaning. Dirty coils can harbor bacteria and mold, affecting the air that circulates through your home.
• System Frequently Turns On and Off: Dirty evaporator coils can cause the system to cycle more frequently, which is known as short cycling. This not only reduces efficiency but can also lead to premature wear and tear on the system.
Central Air Conditioner Inspection, Tune Up, Repair, Replacement & More in Aliante, Anthem, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Inspirada, Mountain’s Edge, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Providence, Rhodes Ranch, Seven Hills, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, The Lakes, Tuscany Village & Las Vegas Nevada
Keeping your evaporator coils clean is essential for maintaining the efficiency, effectiveness, and longevity of your air conditioning system. By understanding what causes coils to get dirty and recognizing the signs of dirty coils, you can take proactive steps to ensure your air conditioner system operates at peak performance. Regular maintenance, including professional cleaning, is the best way to avoid the problems associated with dirty evaporator coils. If you need to have your evaporator coils clean or other HVAC services, contact Hal Mechanical today.
