Evaporator Coil Leak

 What Happens When Your AC Has a Coil Leak?If your air conditioner is running longer, blowing warm air, or constantly losing refrigerant, there's a good chance you're dealing with an evaporator coil leak. While this issue often goes unnoticed at first, it can severely impact your comfort, your wallet, and the lifespan of your HVAC system.
At HVACPaterson.com, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing evaporator coil problems for homeowners in Paterson, Clifton, Passaic, and surrounding New Jersey communities. In this guide, we'll explain everything you need to know about coil leaks — from early warning signs to repair vs. replacement options.

What Is an Evaporator Coil and Why Does It Leak?The evaporator coil is a key component inside your AC system. Located in the indoor unit (often near the furnace or air handler), this coil is filled with refrigerant that absorbs heat from the air in your home.
A leak occurs when tiny holes or cracks form in the coil's tubing or joints, allowing refrigerant to escape. As refrigerant levels drop, so does the system’s ability to cool your home effectively.
🔍 Why Do Coils Leak?

• Corrosion: Over time, exposure to moisture and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can cause the aluminum or copper coils to corrode.
  
• Formicary Corrosion: A chemical reaction involving formaldehyde and air pollutants, common in older homes and city environments like Paterson.
  
• Wear and Tear: Age and vibration can cause metal fatigue and weaken joints.
  
• Poor Maintenance: Dirty coils hold moisture and contaminants that accelerate corrosion.
  
• Manufacturing Defects: Some coils may fail prematurely due to weak soldering or cheap materials.
  

6 Signs of an Evaporator Coil LeakEarly detection is key to preventing more serious (and expensive) AC damage. Watch for these red flags:
1. Warm Air Blowing From VentsIf your thermostat is set to cool but the air feels warm or only slightly cool, you might have low refrigerant due to a leak.
2. Longer Cooling CyclesLeaking refrigerant means your system has to work harder and longer to cool your home.
3. Hissing or Bubbling NoisesThese sounds near the indoor unit often point to refrigerant escaping from a small leak.
4. Frozen Evaporator CoilIronically, low refrigerant can cause the coil to freeze over, reducing airflow and efficiency.
5. Higher Energy BillsAn inefficient AC system runs longer and consumes more energy.
6. AC Won’t Reach Set TemperatureIf your home isn’t cooling like it used to, it could be due to refrigerant loss from a coil leak.

How to Diagnose a Coil LeakAt HVACPaterson.com, our certified technicians use advanced diagnostic tools to detect leaks, including:

• Electronic Leak Detectors
  
• Ultraviolet (UV) Dye Testing
  
• Nitrogen Pressure Tests
  
• Visual Inspections
  

These methods allow us to locate even tiny pinhole leaks and determine whether repair or replacement is the better option.

Can a Leaky Evaporator Coil Be Repaired?Yes, but it depends on the severity, age of the system, and whether the leak is accessible. Here are your options:
🔧 Option 1: Coil Repair

• Small leaks may be patched or sealed using epoxy or soldering.
  
• Works as a temporary fix (not always long-lasting).
  
• Ideal for newer systems still under warranty.
  

💲 Cost: $300 – $700

🔁 Option 2: Coil Replacement

• If the coil is heavily corroded or has multiple leaks, replacement is often the smarter choice.
  
• Usually recommended for systems older than 7–10 years or out of warranty.
  

💲 Cost: $1,200 – $2,500 (including labor)

🌟 Option 3: Full AC System ReplacementIf your system is over 10–15 years old, replacing the entire system may be more cost-effective in the long run—especially when combined with energy rebates and warranties.
💲 Cost: $4,500 – $10,000+

How to Prevent Future Coil LeaksProper maintenance is your best defense against evaporator coil issues. Here’s how HVAC Paterson helps protect your system:

• ✅ Annual coil cleaning
  
• ✅ High-efficiency air filtration
  
• ✅ Sealing duct leaks and moisture sources
  
• ✅ Bi-annual tune-ups with refrigerant level checks
  
• ✅ VOC-free materials during renovations
  

📍 Ask us about our HVAC Protection Plan designed for homes in Paterson’s humid and high-pollution zones.


– Coil Leak AC Repair Paterson NJ
Is your AC blowing warm air or freezing up? You may have a refrigerant leak. Call HVAC Paterson for expert coil diagnostics and fast repairs.
– AC Refrigerant Leak Repair in Passaic County
Leaky evaporator coils reduce efficiency and increase costs. Let HVACPaterson.com fix it before it ruins your system.
– Replace Evaporator Coil Paterson NJ
Need a new evaporator coil? HVAC Paterson installs high-efficiency AC parts with same-day service and warranty support.

Why Choose HVACPaterson.com?🏆 Voted #1 AC Repair Company in Paterson
🧰 EPA-certified techs trained in refrigerant management
🚚 Same-day appointments & emergency service
💡 Transparent pricing — no surprise charges
📍 Local knowledge of Paterson’s climate, housing, and HVAC codes
💬 5-star reviews from homeowners across Passaic County
“My AC kept freezing up and blowing hot air. HVAC Paterson found the leak and replaced the coil the same day. Very professional and fair prices!”
— Nancy R., Clifton NJ

Suspect a Leak? Don’t Wait.Ignoring an evaporator coil leak can lead to complete system failure, mold growth, and skyrocketing energy bills. Get it checked now with a fast, affordable inspection from the local pros at HVACPaterson.com.
📞 Call (973) 833-3261
🌐 Book your service at www.hvacpaterson.com
✅ Coil leak diagnostics
✅ Repairs and replacements
✅ AC tune-ups and refrigerant refills
✅ Financing options available
Conclusion: Keep Your Cool with Trusted Coil ServiceEvaporator coil leaks are one of the most common — and costly — AC problems. But with early detection and help from HVACPaterson.com, you can fix it before it gets worse. Whether you need a small repair or a full system replacement, we’re the team to trust in Paterson, Clifton, Totowa, and all of North Jersey.
📞 Call today or book online at www.hvacpaterson.com to schedule your coil inspection and stay cool all summer long.