Evaporator coils are one of two main parts of the air conditioner. The evaporator coil in an air conditioning system works to allow compressed cooling chemicals (like Freon) to evaporate from liquid to gas while absorbing heat in the process. HVAC systems and other air-modifying devices use evaporator coils to absorb heat in the air and send it back into the house as cold air using a series of air ducts.

If you’re looking for the indoor coil, it looks like a series of pipes within your central air conditioner. In the US, there are three common types of evaporators. The first is the vertical evaporator coil, which is best suited to handle an upward or downward air flow. The second coil is the cased coil. The cased evaporator coil is the most common model in North America. It functions very similarly to the vertical coil, differing mainly in size and shape. The third common type of coil is the uncased coil unit. The uncased coil is similar to the cased coil (but without a protective case). This third type is the easiest to customize, and it makes a great choice for someone with a unique furnace or air conditioner.

When it comes to keeping your evaporator coil running in top shape, there are a few factors you need to consider. If you are experiencing problems with your evaporator coils, you could be facing coil corrosion caused by humidity. It was long believed that areas that experienced high humidity caused more coil damage. Recent research has suggested that your indoor environment has more effect on the state of your evaporator coils than outdoor environment. Because today’s homes are better sealed from outdoor elements, many of the particles that cause corrosion get trapped in your home and damage your evaporator coils. Reach out to a certified HVAC maintenance professional if you suspect that your coils are corroded.

Cleaning your indoor coils can make a big difference in the fight against corrosion. You can either call a repairman to clean your coils for you, or you can learn to clean and identify them yourself. Coils should be cleaned anywhere from one to three times per year, depending on usage and environment. If you are interested in cleaning your coils yourself, consider contacting a professional to discuss possible risks and learn more about the safest ways to do so.

Keeping them running in tip-top shape is crucial for enjoying a cool, pleasant summer, free from the unfortunate surprise of a broken air conditioner. Learning which evaporator coils you have, how to clean them and how to diagnose them if you encounter a problem is important. You can either research your current air conditioner model online, or you can call the manufacturer to ask any pertinent questions about your coils. Learn more about your indoor coils and worry less about them breaking or malfunctioning this summer.

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