How Long Do AC Coils Last In Sheboygan, WI

Coils are one of the most important parts of your HVAC system and are the reason it can create hot and cold air. Broken coils need to be fixed immediately, which leads many to ask, "How long do AC coils last?" Our expert HVAC team is here to answer all your pressing questions about HVAC coils. 



Contact Professional Services today to schedule air conditioning repair in Germantown, WI and the surrounding areas!

How Do AC Coils Work?

AC coils contain a special refrigerant fluid that removes heat from the air that is pumped through the system, creating the cold air that moves through your home. HVAC coils look like small radiators with several winding tubes that coolant runs through. HVAC coolant is a special fluid that can change air temperature by absorbing or emitting heat. The winding design increases the coil’s surface area for more efficient heating and cooling.

HVAC systems technically have two types of coils: evaporator and condenser coils. The evaporator coil cools the air and the condenser coils heat the air. Most AC coils consist of copper or aluminum because they are good heat conductors. Most of the time, the evaporator coil is in your home, and the condenser coil is in your outdoor unit. 

How Long Do AC Coils Last?

In general, standard air conditioning coils should last the entire operating life of the air conditioning unit, which is 10 to 15 years on average. With proper AC maintenance and coil cleaning, your coils could last up to 20 years. 

Factors Influencing AC Coil Lifespan

In reality, coils may age and wear out faster than your AC for several reasons. Below are some of the most relevant factors that affect AC coil lifespan and efficiency. 

Local Climate

Some climates are harsher on AC units than others, which can cause coils to age prematurely. Most condenser coils are in the outside unit, so they are exposed to the elements. Evaporator coils, on the other hand, have to work harder to keep your home cool during the summer, so they are more at risk if you live in a hot and humid climate or during dangerous heat waves. 

Debris

Both condenser and evaporator coils can be damaged by debris and improper airflow. Outdoor units can become clogged with plant clippings that choke off airflow to the condenser coils and cause refrigerant leaks, which is why it's important to maintain outdoor unit clearance from grass and vegetation. 

Evaporator coils are inside, so they are more likely to become dirty and clogged from household debris, like dust, hair, and pet dander. Clogged coils are inefficient and can cause your energy bills to spike, so keeping them clean is crucial. 

Maintenance

Like every other part of your HVAC system, AC coils need regular maintenance to optimize performance and longevity. Routine HVAC maintenance includes coil cleaning and testing, so it’s a good way to stay on top of problems and adjust HVAC usage to maximize system lifespan. Ideally, you should get HVAC maintenance at least once per year—twice per year if you want to be extra vigilant. 

Signs Your AC Coils Are Damaged

Running an AC with broken coils is bad because it puts additional stress on your system, which increases the chances of breakdowns. If you notice any of the following signs, consider calling a professional HVAC contractor to diagnose and fix your coils. 

• Your AC is leaking water from its vents and near the bottom of the unit. 
• AC cycles take much longer or shorter than normal. 
• Only warm air comes out of your vent, regardless of thermostat settings. 
• You hear loud, grinding or scraping noises when you turn on your unit. 
• Your coils are visibly covered in a thick, gray dust or sludge. 

If your AC unit is still less than seven years old, you can replace a damaged coil with little to no loss in functionality. However, if your AC is more than ten years old and you have a broken coil, you should consider buying a new unit. 

No. 1 HVAC and Electrical Services in Sheboygan, WI

Professional Services has been offering industry-leading home HVAC service in Sheboygan, WI for several years and has built many lasting relationships with homeowners and local businesses. You can count on us to put quality first in everything we do!

If you have any more questions about how long AC coils last, contact Professional Services online or call today at (262) 214-5548 to schedule an appointment for HVAC and electrical repair in Sheboygan, WI!