The evaporator coil services both the air conditioner and furnace.
The evaporator coil prevents the buildup of condensation from the furnace unit. They are also used in air conditioning units to help cool the air. The evaporator coil is located inside the furnace cabinet and you will have to access the unit and remove panels to check the coil. Usually you can vacuum the coil to clean it and it will work for a while longer, but in other cases you need to replace it. A good way to know if it is time to switch it out is to clean it and then turn on the system. If the blowers don't put out as much air flow as they used to, then you need a new evaporator coil.
Instructions
1. Locate your furnace. Put on the knee pads if you are in a confined space. They will save you some knee pain from crawling around to access the unit.
2. Unsecrew the front panel of the furnace housing. Use a flashlight to help you locate the evaporator coil. It should be above the furnace unit. Visually inspect the coil for breaks or bends that might affect its performance.
3. Wipe out the reservoir dish the coil sits in. Moisture can cause rust that can break down a metal reservoir.
4. Use a vacuum to clean out the coil. Suck out dust and debris and clean out the interior of the furnace cabinet while you are inside. Close up the cabinet when you are finished.
5. Turn on the furnace and check the air outtake areas for the level of air flow. Turn off the furnace and turn on the air conditioner. If the flow of air is low, you will need a new evaporator coil.
Tags: evaporator coil, access unit, furnace cabinet, furnace unit, need evaporator, need evaporator coil