Air Conditioner Problems / Furnace and Air Conditioner repair in Olathe, Overland Park, Lenexa, Shawnee, and Gardner

Evaporator Coil Guide: Where is it located, how does it work, and why does it leak?

admin Air Conditioner Problems, announcements, front page August 15, 2023August 15, 2023ac coil, air conditioner coil leak, One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning, refrigerant leak

In the realm of residential HVAC systems, the air conditioner coil plays a vital role in maintaining your indoor comfort. However, over time, you might encounter a rather common and frustrating issue – refrigerant leaks. These leaks can lead to reduced cooling efficiency, increased energy bills, and an overall uncomfortable environment. We’ll delve into the intricacies of how an air conditioner coil, attached to the indoor furnace, can develop refrigerant leaks, and explore a solution that holds promise for improved longevity and performance.

Where is Your Air Conditioner’s Coil Located?

Found either within the air handler or attached to the furnace, this coil is nestled within the ductwork or plenum of your home. Its concealed location ensures that the coil efficiently absorbs heat from the indoor air, playing a crucial role in the cooling process.

How Does the AC Coil Work?

As warm air flows over the coil’s cold surfaces, the refrigerant within the coil evaporates, absorbing heat and subsequently cooling the air before it’s circulated back into your living spaces. This fundamental process underscores the significance of the evaporator coil in maintaining the comfort and climate control of your home.

This coil facilitates the transfer of heat from inside your home to the outside environment by using refrigerant – a specialized fluid that undergoes phase changes to absorb and release heat.

How Evaporator Coil Holes Lead to Refrigerant Leaks

Refrigerant leaks can stem from various sources, and one common culprit is a hole in the evaporator coil. When a hole forms in the coil, whether due to corrosion, wear and tear, or other factors, it creates a pathway for the refrigerant to escape. This compromised coil allows the high-pressure refrigerant to leak into the surrounding environment. The result is not only a loss of cooling efficiency but also a potential environmental concern. Detecting and repairing such leaks promptly is crucial to restoring the system’s performance, maintaining optimal energy efficiency, and minimizing the impact on both comfort and the environment.

VOCs in the Air: An Often Overlooked Culprit

One factor that might contribute to coil leaks is the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the air. VOCs are emitted by a range of household products like cleaning supplies, paints, adhesives, and even certain types of furniture. When these compounds come into contact with the coil’s surface, they can lead to a chemical reaction that corrodes the coil over time, causing leaks.

Dissimilar Metals: A Potential Cause of Evaporator Coil Leaks

In our experience, we have noticed that AC coils that utilize dissimilar metals are more prone to developing leaks. This phenomenon is due to a process called galvanic corrosion, where different metals in contact with each other can create a flow of electrical current, leading to the deterioration of one or both metals. This corrosion can compromise the structural integrity of the coil, resulting in tiny openings that allow refrigerant to escape.

Precision Leak Detection: Unveiling Evaporator Coil Leaks

air conditioner coil with a refrigerant leak.

An experienced HVAC service company employs a range of advanced techniques to accurately detect leaks in your evaporator coil. One of the primary methods involves using electronic leak detectors, which can sense the presence of refrigerant escaping from even the tiniest holes.

HVAC service professionals at One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning pinpoint the location and severity of leaks swiftly and accurately, ensuring timely repairs and optimal system performance.

The All-Aluminum Solution

To mitigate the risk of refrigerant leaks caused by galvanic corrosion, HVAC technology has evolved. Newer coils are often made entirely of aluminum, eliminating the potential for dissimilar metal interactions. Aluminum is highly resistant to galvanic corrosion, making it an ideal choice for coil construction.

Benefits of All-Aluminum Coils

Enhanced Longevity: With no dissimilar metals in contact, all-aluminum coils are less susceptible to galvanic corrosion, leading to a longer lifespan for the coil and the entire HVAC system.
Efficiency Boost: Reduced risk of leaks ensures that your AC system operates at peak efficiency, effectively cooling your home while saving energy and reducing utility costs.
Peace of Mind: Installing all-aluminum coils brings homeowners peace of mind, knowing that they’ve invested in a durable, reliable, and long-lasting solution.

Understanding the intricate relationship between your air conditioner’s evaporator coil and refrigerant leaks is pivotal in maintaining the efficiency and comfort of your home’s HVAC system. By installing all-aluminum coils, you’re proactively addressing the potential for galvanic corrosion, ensuring a reliable cooling experience for years to come. One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning in Olathe, KS, is committed to quality and innovation in our choice of materials, benefiting both our customers and the environment.

Remember, regular maintenance, timely repairs, and informed decisions can make a substantial difference in the performance and longevity of your HVAC system. Stay cool, comfortable, and informed with One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning, your reliable partner in residential HVAC solutions.

The Essential Guide to Residential Air Conditioner Repair in Overland Park: Keeping Cool and Comfortable

admin Air Conditioner Problems May 23, 2023May 23, 2023ac repair, air conditioner repair, air conditioner repair in overland park

As the summer heat intensifies, a reliable air conditioner becomes a cherished asset for homeowners seeking respite from soaring temperatures. However, even the most well-maintained air conditioning systems can encounter issues over time, requiring prompt and efficient repairs. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore common residential air conditioner problems and offer practical solutions to keep your cooling system in optimal condition.

Understanding Common Air Conditioner Problems

a. Insufficient Cooling: If your air conditioner fails to cool your home adequately, several factors may be at play, such as a dirty air filter, blocked vents, refrigerant leaks, or a malfunctioning compressor. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective repairs.

b. Strange Noises: Unusual sounds emitted by your air conditioner, such as rattling, buzzing, or screeching, could indicate loose components, damaged fan blades, or a malfunctioning motor. Ignoring these noises may exacerbate the problem and lead to costly repairs.

c. Frequent Cycling: When an air conditioner constantly turns on and off, it is experiencing frequent cycling. This issue may be caused by a faulty thermostat, dirty condenser coils, or an improperly sized system. Addressing this problem promptly will prevent excessive wear and tear on the unit.

d. Water Leaks: Moisture or water pooling around your air conditioning unit signifies a potential problem. It could indicate a clogged condensate drain, a damaged drain pan, or a refrigerant leak. These issues need immediate attention to prevent water damage and maintain the efficiency of your system.

Troubleshooting and DIY Fixes

Before contacting a professional technician, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to potentially resolve minor air conditioner issues:

a. Check and clean the air filter: A dirty filter restricts airflow, reducing cooling efficiency. Regularly cleaning or replacing the filter can improve performance.

b. Inspect and clear the condenser unit: Ensure there are no debris, leaves, or obstructions around the outdoor condenser unit, as this can hinder airflow and cause inefficiency.

c. Reset the thermostat: Sometimes, a simple reset can resolve thermostat-related issues. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate steps.

d. Verify power supply and circuit breaker: Ensure that the air conditioner is receiving power and check the circuit breaker to rule out any electrical issues.

When to Seek Professional Assistance

While some minor air conditioner problems can be addressed through troubleshooting, certain issues require professional expertise. Consider contacting a certified HVAC technician if you encounter the following:

a. Refrigerant leaks: Handling refrigerant requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Professional technicians can identify and repair leaks while adhering to environmental regulations.

b. Compressor malfunctions: The compressor is a vital component of an air conditioner, and its repair or replacement should be handled by trained professionals.

c. Electrical problems: Faulty wiring or electrical issues pose a safety hazard. Qualified technicians can diagnose and resolve electrical problems to ensure the system operates safely.

d. Complex mechanical repairs: If your air conditioner requires intricate mechanical repairs or component replacements, it is advisable to seek professional assistance to prevent further damage.

Regular Maintenance is Your Best Protection Against Air Conditioner Problems

Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of your residential air conditioner. By understanding common problems and implementing troubleshooting steps when appropriate, you can address minor issues and potentially avoid costly repairs. However, it’s crucial to recognize the limits of your DIY abilities and seek professional assistance for complex problems. Remember, a well-functioning air conditioner not only keeps you cool and comfortable but also enhances energy efficiency and reduces utility costs during the hot summer months.

THIS IS HOW YOU CLEAN AN AIR CONDITIONER!

admin Air Conditioner Problems, front page August 1, 2021

This is how you clean an air conditioner!

We were called to a new customers home because of a noisy furnace blower motor. However, after fixing the noise, Jordan recommended a cleaning of their air conditioner in order to better get through the summer! You can see why!

This poor air conditioner was unable to breathe and function properly with so much dirt and debris. Jordan washes the outdoor unit and gets it working like new again. This dirty air conditioner had not been cleaned in 5 years! This customer signed up for our Club Membership program and will now get full HVAC cleanings twice each year!