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At the heart of your air conditioner’s cooling process are two key components: the evaporator coil (inside) and the condenser coil (outside). The evaporator coil absorbs heat from indoor air, while the condenser coil releases it outside. 

But when these coils become corroded, clogged, or damaged, your AC system struggles to do its job. This can lead to discomfort, inefficiency, and costly repairs. So how do you know when it’s time for a coil replacement? Let’s break it down.

Your AC Is Running, but Your Home Feels Warm

One of the first signs of AC coil trouble is weak or warm airflow. When the evaporator coil is damaged or leaking refrigerant, it can’t absorb heat effectively. This means your AC can run without actually cooling your home. 

Ice Is Forming on the AC Unit

It might seem strange, but ice on your air conditioner is actually a red flag. When refrigerant levels are low due to a coil leak, the system can get too cold, causing ice to form. If you see ice on the evaporator coil (inside), it could mean restricted airflow or a refrigerant problem. If ice is on the condenser coil (outside), heat isn’t being properly expelled. 

Either way, ignoring ice on your air conditioner can lead to a full system breakdown.

You Hear Strange Hissing or Bubbling Noises

Your AC is supposed to hum quietly in the background—not make weird noises. If you hear a hissing or bubbling sound while your AC runs, refrigerant might be escaping from a corroded coil. Since refrigerant is essential for cooling, a leak will eventually cause your system to stop working.

Your Energy Bills Keep Climbing

A struggling AC system has to work overtime to maintain a comfortable temperature. This means higher energy bills. If your monthly costs have been creeping up without a clear reason, inefficient coils could be forcing your system to use more energy than necessary.

You’ve Noticed Oily Stains Near Your AC Unit

If you ever see greasy or oily spots near your air conditioning unit, that’s a sign of a refrigerant leak. The coils rely on a sealed refrigerant system, and visible residue could mean your coils are damaged beyond repair.

Your AC Keeps Turning On and Off

Coil problems can make your system overheat or work inefficiently, forcing it to shut off too soon—only to restart minutes later. This is called short-cycling. This wastes energy and strains your system. Left unaddressed, this can lead to costly repairs down the road.

Can a Coil Be Repaired, or Do You Need a Full Replacement?

In some cases, a thorough cleaning or refrigerant refill can temporarily improve coil function. These are short-term fixes but are sometimes financially viable. If you’re dealing with corroded, leaking, or ice-covered coils, AC coil replacement is the better long-term solution. Other issues and their solutions include:

• Minor dirt buildup? A professional cleaning might help.
• Small pinhole leak? Temporary sealing might work—but it’s not a permanent fix.
• Extensive corrosion or major leaks? Replacement is the best option.
• System older than 10 years? It may be time to consider a full AC replacement.

How Much Does AC Coil Replacement Cost?

The cost of replacing AC coils depends on:

• Which coil needs replacing (evaporator vs. condenser).
• The make and model of your AC unit.
• Labor costs and installation time.
• Refrigerant type—especially if your system still uses R-22.

When AC repair costs approach 50% of the price of a new unit, it’s often a smarter investment to replace the entire system rather than continue patching failing components.

How to Extend the Life of Your AC Coils

Want to avoid coil problems in the future? Here’s how to keep your system running smoothly:

• Clean your coils regularly to prevent dust and debris buildup.
• Change your air filters every 1-3 months to maintain proper airflow.
• Schedule annual AC maintenance to catch small problems before they become big ones.
• Consider coil coatings if you live in a humid or coastal area, as these help prevent corrosion.

Schedule Expert AC Coil Replacement Today

If your air conditioner shows any of these signs, consider replacing your air conditioner coil before a small issue turns into a complete system failure. At Residential Heating and Cooling, our experienced HVAC technicians can diagnose coil issues and deliver expert replacements to restore your system’s function.

Schedule an inspection today and keep your home cool all summer long!