Dirty Evaporator Coil

The Hidden Problem Behind AC IssuesYour air conditioner might look clean and functional from the outside, but inside, hidden components could be working overtime—or failing—due to dirt and debris. One of the most common culprits? Dirty evaporator coils.
As the #1 HVAC company in Paterson, NJ, we at HVAC Paterson know just how critical clean evaporator coils are to the efficiency, performance, and lifespan of your air conditioning system. Neglecting this essential component can cost you more in energy, repairs, and discomfort.

What Are Evaporator Coils and What Do They Do?  Evaporator coils are located inside your indoor AC unit or air handler. Their job is simple but vital: to absorb heat from the air inside your home.
Here’s how it works:

• Refrigerant inside the coils evaporates, pulling heat from the air.
• The blower fan circulates this now-cooled air back into your living space.
• Meanwhile, the absorbed heat travels outside to the condenser unit.

When these coils are coated in dust, pet dander, mold, or grease, this heat exchange process becomes inefficient—and that’s when the problems begin.

5 Signs of Dirty Evaporator Coils Wondering if your AC coils are dirty? Look out for these common symptoms:
🧊 1. Frozen CoilsIronically, one of the signs of dirty coils is ice buildup. When airflow is restricted, the refrigerant doesn’t absorb heat properly, leading to freezing on the coil surface.
🌬️ 2. Weak AirflowClogged coils make it harder for your AC to cool the air, resulting in weak or uneven airflow through your vents.
💸 3. Higher Energy BillsIf your system runs longer to maintain your set temperature, expect a spike in your utility bills.
🏚️ 4. Hot or Humid Indoor AirDirty coils reduce your system’s ability to remove heat and humidity. Your home may feel clammy or warmer than usual, even when the AC is running.
⚠️ 5. AC Running ConstantlyIf your AC won’t shut off, your system is likely struggling to cool due to dirty coils or clogged filters.

What Causes Evaporator Coils to Get Dirty?Several factors contribute to dirty coils, especially in urban and suburban areas like Paterson:
Cause  Explanation  Dirty Air Filters  Allow dust and debris to pass into coils
High Indoor Pollutio  Cooking smoke, pet hair, or dust buildup
Neglected Maintenance  Coils should be cleaned annually
Poor Duct Sealing  Pulls in unfiltered air from attics/basements
📍 In older homes across Passaic County, dirty coils are often the result of poor ductwork or insufficient insulation.

Why Dirty Coils Are Bad for Your AC SystemLetting dirt build up on your evaporator coils can lead to serious issues:
🔧 1. System BreakdownsOverworked compressors and blowers may fail prematurely, leading to expensive repairs or complete system replacements.
🌡️ 2. Inconsistent Temperature ControlYour home may have hot and cold spots or feel uncomfortable no matter the thermostat setting.
🧯 3. Mold Growth & Air Quality IssuesMoist, dirty coils can harbor mold and bacteria, circulating allergens throughout your home.
💰 4. Reduced EfficiencyEven a thin layer of dirt can reduce your system’s efficiency by up to 30%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

How to Clean Evaporator CoilsIf you’re handy and your system is easily accessible, light coil cleaning may be a DIY project — but always prioritize safety and shut off all power to the unit.
🛠️ DIY Cleaning Steps:

1. Turn off the AC power at the thermostat and breaker.
2. Remove the access panel to expose the coils.
3. Use a soft brush or compressed air to loosen dust.
4. Apply a no-rinse coil cleaner (available at hardware stores).
5. Allow to dry before restoring power.

⚠️ If your coils are greasy, heavily caked in debris, or growing mold — it’s best to call HVAC Paterson for a professional cleaning.

How Often Should Coils Be Cleaned?Most HVAC professionals recommend annual coil cleaning as part of your regular maintenance. However, if you live in an area with:

• High dust levels
• Lots of pets
• Frequent construction nearby
  ...you may need to clean them every 6 months.

🛠️ Ask about HVAC Paterson’s affordable bi-annual tune-up packages to keep your system running clean year-round.

How Much Does Professional Coil Cleaning Cost Service  Average Cost Evaporator Coil Cleaning  $120 – $250
Full AC Tune-Up  $150 – $300
Coil Replacement (if needed)  $400 – $1,000+
✅ HVACPaterson.com offers seasonal discounts and maintenance plans for local customers in Paterson, Clifton, Totowa, and Passaic.


– Dirty Coils AC Repair Paterson NJ
Dirty evaporator coils? HVAC Paterson provides fast and affordable AC coil cleaning across Passaic County.
– AC Not Cooling in Paterson?
Poor airflow or warm air could mean dirty coils. Schedule a coil inspection today with HVACPaterson.com — the #1 HVAC company in NJ.
– HVAC Maintenance Paterson NJ
Keep your air conditioner running strong. Call HVAC Paterson for coil cleaning and full system tune-ups.

Why Choose HVACPaterson.com?🏆 Paterson’s Top-Rated HVAC Team
🔧 Licensed, insured, and EPA-certified techs
💨 Experts in airflow, cooling, and coil diagnostics
📍 Serving all of North Jersey, including Clifton, Passaic, and Woodland Park
💬 Hundreds of 5-star reviews from satisfied homeowners

Schedule Coil Cleaning TodayDon’t wait until your AC breaks down during a heatwave. Dirty coils are a silent performance killer — but they’re easy to fix with professional help.
📞 Call (973) 833-3261
🌐 Book online at www.hvacpaterson.com
✅ AC running warm?
✅ Strange smells or ice buildup?
✅ Energy bills going up?
We’ll take care of it—fast, affordable, and local.


Conclusion: Small Part, Big ImpactYour evaporator coils may be out of sight, but they shouldn’t be out of mind. Clean coils keep your system efficient, your bills low, and your home cool. Don’t let dirt rob your comfort this summer — let HVAC Paterson clean, inspect, or replace your coils today.
🧊 Stay cool, breathe easy — trust the local experts.
📞 Call now or book your service online at www.hvacpaterson.com