Review the Various Causes of Evaporator Coil Leaks

The evaporator coil is a key part of the cooling system in your Houston area home, and evaporator coil leaks can be devastating to the air conditioner.

How Does the Evaporator Coil Cool the Air?

The coil, an indoor component of the air conditioning system’s air handler, cools the air that passes over it so the conditioned air can then be circulated through the ductwork. Refrigerant inside the coil absorbs heat from the indoor air. As the refrigerant gets warmer, it turns into a gas and continues on its loop toward the outdoor condenser, where heat is released. The refrigerant then continues its loop back into the house and through the evaporator coil again.

What Causes Evaporator Coil Corrosion?

One of the major causes of evaporator coil leakage, especially in humid parts of the country, is formicary corrosion. This corrosion occurs from the outside in, when formic acid creates microscopic pinholes in the coil’s surface. Acid forms from a chemical reaction between oxygen, condensation on the coil and the copper coil itself. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted into the air by household cleaners, aerosol sprays, scented air fresheners, and the like contribute to the problem.

Preventing Leaks

Evaporator coil leaks cause cooling system damage or breakdowns and can release environmentally harmful, ozone-layer-depleting refrigerant. Avoid coil leakage by:

• Scheduling regular preventive maintenance for the A/C. A skilled technician can catch issues like evaporator coil leaks before they start or turn into a larger problem.
• Cleaning coils regularly, which removes leak-causing acid buildup, improves cooling performance and extends A/C life.
• Reducing VOC usage and leaving windows open when they are used.
• Installing whole-house air purification with UV bulbs to neutralize VOCs and discourage mold growth.

Prevent evaporator coil leaks and get complete HVAC services by contacting the experts at Davis Air Conditioning & Heating.

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