If you rely on an air conditioner or heat pump to cool your home or business, then you are probably aware it consists of an indoor and an outdoor unit. These systems work together to pull heat out of the property, using a number of essential parts. Below, learn what an evaporator coil’s role is in this process and how it works. 

What Is an Evaporator Coil?

Air conditioners and heat pumps don’t actually make cold air. Instead, they pull the heat out of the property and move it outside. An evaporator coil, which is found in the inside unit, is the part that makes this happen. 

When air from the home enters the return vent, it is blown over the evaporator coil. The coil holds a chilled, liquid refrigerant that absorbs the heat from the air and moves it outdoors. The recently cooled air cycles through the ductwork and back out into the home. 

Outside, the heated refrigerant is compressed into a gas as it moves through the compressor or condenser coils. A series of fans are then able to blow the heat off of the coils. This effectively lowers the temperature of the refrigerant so it can return to a liquid state and move back to the evaporator coil to repeat the process. 

How to Tell If an Evaporator Coil Needs Repairs?

Usually, the biggest indicator of a broken or failing evaporator coil is warm air. A damaged coil is unable to effectively remove heat from the air, so the returning air won’t feel very cool. As a result, the air conditioner or heat pump may run for longer periods or kick on more frequently in an attempt to lower the temperature of the property. 

Aging evaporator coils are also prone to corrosion. If this occurs, the risk of a refrigerant leak increases. When this happens, the system won’t be able to properly cool the property, and you’ll probably notice the air getting increasingly warmer. You might also notice a hissing or gurgling sound coming from the air handler, and there will probably be ice on the coil and visible moisture near it. 

When you are in need of heat pump or air conditioning repairs, turn to the professionals at South Carolina Mechanical. They provide HVAC repair, maintenance, and installation services to homes and businesses in Conway, SC, and the surrounding areas. Their licensed and insured team has over 18 years of experience and is able to diagnose and address any problems you might have. Call them today at (843) 333-1494 to speak to a representative, and visit their website to learn more about the services they offer.