After a beautiful day at The Hudson Gardens in Littleton, CO, the last thing you want to face is an issue with your air conditioner. One of the most common issues with AC systems is related to the evaporator coils. So, is getting an evaporator coil replacement worth it? The HVAC experts at High 5 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric have the answers to this question, along with tips to help you extend the lifespan of your evaporator coil and more.
What Is an Evaporator Coil?
An evaporator coil is a crucial component that absorbs heat from the air inside your home by circulating refrigerant through multiple tubes. The refrigerant evaporates and absorbs heat from the surrounding air. This process cools the air before it is circulated back into your home. The evaporator coils are typically located inside the indoor air unit of your AC or heat pump, within the air handler, or attached to the furnace.
Signs Your Evaporator Coil May Need Replacement
The following are some signs that you may need an evaporator AC coil replacement:
- Weak airflow or warm air: Could indicate a blocked or leaking evaporator coil.
- Ice buildup: Often caused by low refrigerant levels affecting the coil.
- Strange noises: Hissing or bubbling sounds may signal a refrigerant leak.
- Short cycling: Frequent on-off cycles may point to coil malfunction.
- Visible dirt or damage: Dirt, debris, or corrosion can clog the coil, reducing its performance.
Should You Repair or Replace an Evaporator Coil?
Deciding whether to repair or replace an evaporator coil is challenging. Consider these factors when deciding which option is best for you.
When to repair
Signs it’s time to repair your evaporator coil:
- If the evaporator coil has only a small leak or minor corrosion, it’s usually best to repair it.
- AC systems that are less than eight years old should be fine with a repaired evaporator coil rather than a brand-new one.
- Your AC manufacturer’s warranty may cover the repair of evaporator coils, saving you money and time.
- Professional repair can solve most minor issues related to the evaporator coil.
When to replace
Signs it’s time to replace your evaporator coil:
- If your coil continuously leaks or is severely corroded due to age and wear, it’s best to have it replaced.
- Older systems, those that are more than eight years old, may perform better with an evaporator coil replacement.
- Installing a new evaporator coil is ideal if you need to improve the efficiency of your HVAC system.
- Coils that fail due to a refrigerant leak may need to be replaced to keep the system operating properly.
Cost of Replacing an Evaporator Coil
The cost to replace an evaporator coil in the Denver area varies based on several factors, including the AC brand, the size and type of your unit, and the complexity of the replacement. On average, replacing an evaporator coil costs between $550 and $2,500, which includes both parts and labor. The High 5 team is happy to provide you with an honest and accurate estimate if you’re planning to replace your evaporator coil.
Pros and Cons of Evaporator Coil Replacement
Consider these pros and cons when choosing between a coil repair and replacement.
Pros
Pros of replacing an evaporator coil:
- Replacing the evaporator coil restores your HVAC system to its original efficiency.
- A replacement helps to resolve long-term issues with refrigerant leaks or cooling problems.
- In most cases, this service costs less than replacing the entire system.
Cons
Cons of replacing an evaporator coil:
- Coil replacement can be expensive, especially for older units.
- You may experience issues with mismatched components if your system isn’t compatible with new coils.
- There is a potential for lingering problems if other system parts are also worn out, so a coil replacement might not be enough to keep your system running smoothly.
How To Decide If Evaporator Coil Replacement Is Worth It
As you debate whether to replace the evaporator coil or the whole unit, consider the following factors:
- Any AC system that is 10 years old or older may be due for a full replacement to prevent future issues with other components.
- If the cost to repair or replace your evaporator coil is 50% or more than the cost of a new system, it might not be worth it.
- If your system is experiencing multiple problems beyond just the evaporator coil, a replacement may not resolve the other issues, leaving you with inconsistent and unreliable cooling.
Tips To Extend the Lifespan of an Evaporator Coil
Follow these tips to help extend the lifespan of your evaporator coil:
- Practice routine preventative maintenance, including changing the air filter frequently and cleaning the coil to prevent blockages and airflow issues.
- Schedule annual AC inspections and tune-ups to identify and repair issues early, before they become more costly later.
- Address issues with your refrigerant, such as low levels or leaks, immediately to prevent further damage to the coil and the unit.
- Avoid overworking your AC, as this can create issues with the evaporator coil and other components.
- Pay close attention to the signs of an evaporator coil issue so you can have the coil repaired early, rather than having to pay for a replacement.
- Make sure your system is properly sealed and insulated, which can reduce wear and tear on the system as a whole.
Want an Estimate to Replace Your Evaporator Coil? Contact the HVAC Professionals at High 5 Today!
The team at High 5 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric is a leading HVAC contractor in the Denver area. Our team is standing by, ready to assist you, and we offer all the HVAC services you need in one convenient location. If you need to repair or replace your evaporator coil, contact us today!
