Does My Air Conditioner Need to Have a Leaking Coil Replaced?

If your air conditioner's coil is leaking, you might wonder if the part needs to be replaced. When it comes to keeping your HVAC system running like a dream, team up with Reliable Heating & Cooling. With over 15 years of HVAC experience, we're confident we can make your home an oasis of peace and comfort. Today, let's discuss how to handle a leaking coil and the solutions we can provide.

Evaporator Coils 101

During a cooling cycle, the blower fan moves hot air from inside your home to the evaporator coil, which is made of copper tubes. Those tubes are filled with your air conditioner's refrigerant, or "coolant." Heat is absorbed as the hot air passes over the coils until your thermostat's set point is reached. The excess heat and moisture are transferred outside your home, bringing you the comfort you crave.

Signs of a Leak

First, how do you know you have a leaking AC coil on your hands? The most common sign of a problem is that it takes longer to cool your home than expected, significantly impacting your comfort. If you have a leaking air conditioner coil, the house might feel more humid, too. Your utility bills will climb higher and higher as your unit struggles to keep up with the demand for stable temperatures and draws more energy to run.

Hissing or gurgling sounds are red flags that your evaporator coil has cracks or holes. If the part is frozen over, chances are pretty good that the AC has a coolant leak. Without the proper amount of refrigerant flowing through the system, the evaporator coil cannot efficiently absorb enough heat to keep ice from forming. If you notice any of these signs, it's time to contact the HVAC professionals at Reliable Heating & Cooling to restore your home's comfort.

Common Causes

Everyday wear and tear eventually cause coils to become susceptible to a refrigerant leak. As the coolant flows through the tubes, the inner lining slowly becomes thinner and weaker from erosion. An outdated R-22 refrigerant, for example, is more corrosive than a more modern type of coolant. Commercial evaporator coil cleaners can damage the outer components over time, too.

But don't worry, Reliable Heating & Cooling is here to help. As your trusted HVAC partner in Staten Island and the surrounding area, we offer free in-home estimates and keep you informed at every step. Our dedicated team is committed to providing the highest quality service and ensuring your peace of mind. With us, you can rest assured that your heating and cooling needs are in good hands.

Repair or Replace?

If your evaporator coil is leaking, the best solution is to replace your air conditioner. On average, most units last between 10 to 15 years with regular maintenance. Unless an AC has a manufacturing defect or wasn't installed correctly, leaks don't typically occur until a unit is several years old. By the time that happens, it is more cost-effective to contact Reliable Heating & Cooling for AC replacement in Staten Island. Our veteran team proudly services all makes and models!


Call and schedule your free in-home estimate today at 347-934-8165! Our highly trained and experienced technicians will assess your home's needs and help you choose the perfect HVAC system to provide you with the best results. Ask about our special promotions and convenient financing options designed to make owning a new air conditioner a breeze!