Your air conditioner is a complex system made up of key components that work together to keep your home cool and comfortable. One of the most important parts is the evaporator coil, which is responsible for absorbing heat from the air inside your home. Over time, dirt and dust can accumulate on the coil, reducing your system’s efficiency and leading to a range of performance problems. LV Heating & Cooling would like to explore the top signs of dirty evaporator coils, why they matter, and how to prevent issues before they become costly repairs.
What is an Evaporator Coil?
The evaporator coil is located inside your indoor HVAC unit, usually near the blower fan. Its main job is to:
• Absorb heat from the indoor air
• Allow refrigerant to evaporate and pull heat out
• Cool and dehumidify the air before it is recirculated throughout your home
When the coil becomes dirty, it acts as an insulating barrier, preventing the coil from properly absorbing heat.
Signs Your Evaporator Coils are Dirty
Weak or Warm Airflow from Vents: If your air conditioner is running but the air coming from the vents feels warm or weak, dirty evaporator coils may be to blame. When the coil can’t absorb heat effectively, it can’t cool the air before it’s circulated.
Longer Cooling Cycles: Dirty coils make your system work harder to cool your home. If you notice your air conditioner running longer than usual to reach the set temperature, this could indicate restricted heat absorption due to debris on the coils.
Ice Buildup on the Coils or Refrigerant Line: When airflow is blocked and the coil can’t absorb heat, the temperature can drop below freezing causing ice to form on the evaporator coil or refrigerant line. This will further restrict airflow and can eventually shut your system down.
Increased Energy Bills: If your energy usage has gone up without any changes in how often you run your air conditioner, dirty evaporator coils may be causing the system to work harder, leading to a noticeable spike in your electric bill.
Musty or Unpleasant Odors: Dust and moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow on your evaporator coils. This can result in musty odors coming from your vents, especially when the system first turns on.
Short Cycling: Dirty coils can cause your system to overheat or misread temperature levels, leading it to shut off too soon and restart frequently. This “short cycling” puts strain on your components and shortens your system’s lifespan.
How to Prevent Dirty Evaporator Coils
• Change your air filter regularly about every 1 to 3 months.
• Schedule annual HVAC maintenance.
• Keep return air vents clean and unblocked.
• Consider indoor air quality solutions like air purifiers.
Central AC Inspections, Tune Ups, Repair, Replacement & More in Summerlin, North LV, Henderson, Enterprise, Paradise, Spring Valley, Sunrise Manor & Greater Las Vegas, NV
While some homeowners attempt DIY coil cleaning, it is best left to licensed HVAC technicians. They will ensure the evaporator coils are cleaned properly and safely as they can be damaged very easily. When you need your coils cleaned, or other HVAC services, contact LV Heating & Cooling today.
