The Dynamic Duo of Your AC Coils

“Coil” can be such a generalized word that using it in relation to your air conditioner can be vague at best. But the simple fact is that the coils in your air conditioning system play important roles, and without them, your home wouldn’t stay cool. So what are these coils and why are they so important? Let’s take a look.

Two Sets

Your air conditioner has two sets of coils: an evaporator coil and a condenser coil. The condenser coils are part of the condenser unit that is housed in the outdoor metal cabinet and the evaporator coils are part of the evaporator, which is housed in the indoor unit. Each set of coils has its own responsibilities:

• Condenser coils – these coils help release the heat being carried from your home by the refrigerant. As the refrigerant leaves the compressor, it enters the condenser coils, releasing heat as it makes its way through the serpentine tubes. By the time the refrigerant reaches the evaporator valve, which is the entrance to the evaporator coils, the refrigerant has cooled.
• Evaporator coils – as the refrigerant continues on its way through the evaporator coils, the warm air from your home is blown over the cool evaporator coils where the cooled refrigerant absorbs the heat; in turn, cool air is released and blown into your home.

Problems That Affect the Coils

While the coils are durable, they are also sensitive; this is because they are made of thin aluminum and can easily bend or break. The most common problems that can develop from coils are:

• Dirty/dusty coils – when a layer of dirt and/or dust coats your coils, it acts as an insulator and can disrupt the heat release and cooling process. In turn, you may see a lack of cooling from your system.
• Bent or broken fins – as mentioned above, the coils are made from thin aluminum and can easily bend or break. When the fins are bent or broken, it can be difficult for the air to pass through the coils as needed.

Your AC coils are in integral part of your air conditioning system, and as such, they need to be kept in good working order. The experts at Celco Heating and Air Conditioning are here to assist you with all of your air conditioning needs in Celco, so call us today!