Where Is the Evaporator Coil Located in a Furnace?

Don't let a dirty evaporator coil or a neglected furnace leave you sweating the high temperatures and high energy bills. Contact Watson Heating & Air today for expert maintenance and repair services. 

When your home feels warmer than usual despite the air conditioning running full blast, it might be time to check a critical component of your HVAC system: the evaporator coil. But where is the evaporator coil located in a furnace?

Understanding where the evaporator coil is located in a furnace and its role in your home's comfort can save you from sweltering summer days and unexpected repair bills. Below, Watson Heating & Air, the leading provider of furnace repair in Lexington, KY, will explain where to find the evaporator coil so you can be well-informed about this essential part of your AC unit.

Understanding Your HVAC System

The evaporator coil is not just a component; it's the heart of your air conditioning system, playing a critical role in the cooling cycle. This coil, filled with refrigerant, is essential for the air conditioning process, transforming warm air into cool, refreshing air that circulates throughout your home. 

The evaporator coil's location, either within the air handler or directly attached to the furnace in the blower cabinet, provides maximum efficiency in heat absorption and transfer.

The cooling process is a sophisticated operation that starts with the indoor air being drawn through the air filter, a crucial step in removing particles and contaminants. This cleaned air then moves across the evaporator coil. Here's a closer look at each step of the process and the components involved:

Air Filter

The air filter traps dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. A clean air filter is vital for maintaining air quality and preventing the evaporator coil from getting dirty.

Refrigerant

Refrigerant is a special fluid within the evaporator coil that absorbs heat from the air. The refrigerant changes from a liquid to a gas as it absorbs heat, a process that is fundamental to cooling your home.

Evaporator Coil

The evaporator coil is a network of tubes that hold the refrigerant. It's here that the heat exchange occurs, with the coil absorbing heat from the air and cooling it down before it blows back into the room.

Air Handler

Your furnace's air handler houses the evaporator coil and is responsible for circulating air throughout your home. Its fan draws in warm air, pushes it over the evaporator coil, and then distributes the cooled air through your home's ductwork.

Maintaining Your Evaporator Coil

Now that you know the answer to "Where is the evaporator coil located in a furnace?" is the air handler or the blower cabinet, you should know how to care for these coils to keep your furnace operational.

Ignoring routine checks and maintenance can lead to a cascade of problems, from minor inconveniences to major system failures. Beyond changing your air filter and scheduling annual service, there are several steps you can take to ensure the health of your evaporator coil and, by extension, your furnace.

Inspect and Clean the Evaporator Coil

Dust and dirt accumulation on the coil can significantly hinder its ability to absorb heat. An annual inspection and cleaning by an HVAC professional can prevent this buildup, ensuring efficient operation.

Check and Seal Ductwork

Leaky ducts can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system, forcing it to work harder and longer to heat and cool your home. Sealing and insulating ductwork can improve system efficiency and reduce strain on the evaporator coil.

Regularly Replace the Air Filter

A clean air filter prevents dust and debris from reaching the evaporator coil. Depending on your system and the filter type, you should replace it every 30 to 90 days.

Monitor Refrigerant Levels

Adequate refrigerant levels are crucial for the evaporator coil to absorb heat effectively. Low levels can indicate a leak, requiring professional repair to prevent damage to the coil and compressor.

Ensure Proper Airflow

The system's blower fan should work properly to ensure airflow over the coil. Restricted airflow can cause the coil to freeze, leading to water damage and system inefficiency.

Trust Watson Heating & Air for Your HVAC Needs

Where is the evaporator coil located in a furnace? Whether your furnace coil is in the air handler or the blower cabinet, we can address any concerns about your heating and air conditioning system, from a dirty evaporator coil to a clogged air filter.

For all your HVAC needs, call our Watson Heating & Air team at (859) 695-2989. Let us be your go-to HVAC experts for answering questions and understanding the reasons why your furnace won't turn on.