Cooling Coil or Evaporator Coil Diagnosis & Repair for Air Conditioners
admin • July 9, 2012

Inside the air handler of your Portland air conditioning system is a cooling coil or evaporator coil. From a home cooling perspective, this is where the magic happens: where the actual cooling occurs. So, if there is a problem with the cooling or evaporator coil, you will notice a decrease in the performance of your AC system.

You may notice that the air flow has slowed significantly or even stopped, even though you can hear the air handler running. You may also notice that the air isn’t as cool as it used to be or should be. Aside from having a house that is not cool enough, this can also cause problems like high electricity bills or damage to other parts of the air conditioner. Use this quick guide to start diagnosing and repairing the problem.

Diagnosis

For starters, just try to get a good look at the cooling coil. Some problems are obvious enough upon visual inspection that no further diagnostics or major repair is necessary.

If you are able to see the cooling coil, look for things like:

  • Dirt and debris
  • Mold
  • Staining that indicates a refrigerant leak
  • Ice or frost
  • Damaged fins on the coil

Repair

Any of these could be the culprit that is degrading the performance of your Portland AC system. Some of these you can take care of pretty simply on your own – if there is obvious debris that you can remove safely, do so – but for most repairs you will want to call in a licensed technician. Especially if the problem is something potentially hazardous like mold growth or a refrigerant leak, you don’t want to take the risk. Let a professional from Clean Air Act  who is trained in safely and effectively repairing the problem take care of it, so that your home can be comfortable again.

A thermostat with a smiley face on it is covered in a knitted hat.
By Rodger Brown May 5, 2025
Learn four common signs that you need a new gas furnace.
The inside of an electric furnace is shown with the door open.
By Rodger Brown April 21, 2025
Learn the early warning signs can help you avoid a complete breakdown and keep your home warm, safe, and energy-efficient throughout the colder months.
A woman and a boy are playing with a dog on a couch.
By Rodger Brown April 7, 2025
Learn the top benefits of getting ahead of AC repairs before minor problems turn into major headaches. The post What Are the Benefits of Taking Action Early on AC Repairs? first appeared on Clean Air Act Inc..
A person is holding a remote control in front of an air conditioner.
By Rodger Brown March 24, 2025
Learn about the key steps involved in a ductless heat pump installation and why professional expertise makes all the difference. The post Steps for Installing a Ductless Mini Split System first appeared on Clean Air Act Inc..
A close up of a humidifier in a room with a plant in the background.
By Rodger Brown March 10, 2025
Learn about the benefits of a humidifier and how one of these unique systems can benefit your family.  The post What Are the Benefits of a Whole-House Humidifier? first appeared on Clean Air Act Inc..
The Clean Air Act Technician is holding a thermometer in front of a furnace.
By Rodger Brown February 24, 2025
Learn about three repairs that we get calls for when it comes to gas furnaces and the signs of each one. The post 3 Common Gas Furnace Repair Needs first appeared on Clean Air Act Inc..
Show More