The average cost of AC evaporator coils ranges between $650 and $2,400. However, there are several factors that impact evaporator coil costs. Let’s review the different factors so you can determine what your potential costs will be based on your needs.
The lifespan of the evaporator coil can significantly impact overall costs and efficiency, as a longer life reduces the need for frequent replacements and maintenance.
Unit Size and Type
There are many sizes and types of evaporator coils to handle the needs of different-sized AC systems. Typically, smaller units (around 2 tons) will cost less, closer to the $650 mark. On the other hand, larger units (around 5 tons) will cost more, often between $1,700 to $2,400.
Additionally, the type of coil is important when discussing cost factors. The different types of coils are A-coils, N-coils, and slab coils.
- A-coils are the most common and generally priced in the mid-range, around $1,300.
- Slab coils are generally a little cheaper, around $1,200 or less.
- N-coils tend to be more expensive, going for $1,500+.
Each of these types of coils is built in specific shapes and sizes to be compatible with certain AC units, so the type you need will depend on your current HVAC system. Therefore, even though it might sound convenient to opt for a different type that’s cheaper, it won’t work out if it isn’t compatible with the AC unit you have.
Brands
Like other products or mechanical parts, the brand name can affect the cost of your evaporator coil. Some premium brands, like Carrier, Lennox, and Trane, tend to be more expensive and can even cost up to $4,000 or more.
That said, if you’re in the market for a cheap evaporator coil, there are some brands that tend to be more budget-friendly. Some top choices include Aspen, Goodman, ADP, ACiQ, and York. Looking at some of these brands can be a good starting point in your search.
Installation and Labor Costs
It’s generally recommended that new HVAC parts be professionally installed to ensure your system operates correctly. An evaporator coil installation generally takes 2 to 4 hours, and HVAC contractors usually charge between $75 and $150 per hour. So, budget for $150 to $600 in labor expenses.
Is It Worth Replacing an Evaporator Coil?
Replacing an evaporator coil can be a worthwhile investment. It can help reduce energy expenses and ensure that your AC unit is cooling your home as effectively as possible in the long run. Additionally, replacing the evaporator coil can extend the life of your AC system.
Some signs that you should replace your evaporator coil are if it has required frequent repairs over the last couple of years or if it shows signs of physical damage or corrosion. As long as the rest of your HVAC system is in good working order, you will get several evaporator coil benefits by installing the new part.
That said, it’s important to consider the cost-benefit analysis before investing in a new coil. If your AC unit is more than 10-15 years old or if it uses older refrigerants like R-22 that are getting phased out, it might be a better idea to replace the entire system instead. In these cases, getting a new evaporator would just be a temporary fix and probably wouldn’t provide enough replacement value in the long term.
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Can I Replace an Evaporator Coil Myself?
Knowing the labor costs of a professional installation are high leads many on tight budgets to wonder about self-replacement or DIY evaporator coil replacement options.
In general, most people should hire a trained professional to perform the installation since HVAC systems are highly technical, and performing the replacement could be hazardous or dangerous if you take any missteps. That said, if you have HVAC knowledge and the right tools for the job, you could feasibly do it on your own.
Here’s a quick evaporator coil replacement guide to help you determine whether this is the type of project you should undertake.
The Tools Needed for an Evaporator Coil Replacement
You’d need several tools on hand to ensure the job gets done correctly, including:
- Screwdrivers: Both Phillips and flathead screwdrivers are essential for removing and replacing screws on the air handler or furnace unit.
- Wrench set: A set of wrenches is necessary for loosening and tightening nuts and bolts.
- Pliers: Various types of pliers, including needle-nose and slip-joint pliers, are useful for gripping, bending, and cutting wires.
- Pipe cutter: A pipe cutter is needed to cut the copper tubing when disconnecting and reconnecting the refrigerant lines.
- Brazing torch: This tool is used to weld the copper pipes when installing the new evaporator coil.
- Vacuum pump: A vacuum pump is essential for evacuating the air and moisture from the system before recharging it with refrigerant.
- Refrigerant scales: These scales measure the amount of refrigerant being added to or removed from the system.
- Safety glasses: Protective eyewear is crucial to protect your eyes from debris and potential refrigerant exposure.
- Gloves: Wearing gloves protects your hands from sharp edges, chemicals, and heat.
- Refrigerant recovery machine: This machine is used to safely recover and store refrigerant during the replacement process.
- Manifold gauge set: A set of gauges is needed to monitor the refrigerant pressure in the system.
- Nitrogen tank and regulator: Used for pressure testing the system to ensure there are no leaks.
- Thermometer: A thermometer measures the temperature differential across the coil to ensure its correct operation.
Step-By-Step Replacement Guide
After you have the right tools on hand, here are the steps to replace the evaporator coil:
- Turn off the power: To avoid electrical hazards, disconnect the power to your HVAC system at the circuit breaker.
- Access the coil: Remove the access panel of the air handler or furnace to expose the evaporator coil.
- Disconnect the coil: Carefully disconnect electrical wires and refrigerant lines. If necessary, use a pipe cutter to sever copper tubing.
- Remove the old coil: Unscrew and remove the old evaporator coil from its mounting.
- Install the new coil: Place the new coil in position and secure it. Reconnect the electrical wiring and refrigerant lines, ensuring all connections are tight.
- Seal the unit: Replace the access panel and ensure the unit is properly sealed to prevent air leaks.
- Restore power and test: Turn the power back on and test the system to ensure it’s working correctly.
Risks and Complications of DIY Replacement
While doing it yourself might seem like a good idea to save money, be aware that there are significant risks involved, such as:
- Refrigerant leaks that can harm the environment and damage your HVAC system.
- Handling electrical components without proper knowledge could cause shocks or serious injury.
- DIY repair often voids the warranty on HVAC systems, so future issues or part replacements might not be covered.
Are All Evaporator Coils the Same?
As mentioned earlier, all evaporator coils aren’t the same. There are several evaporator coil types and coil variations that can impact compatibility. Let’s review those types in more detail to give you a better understanding of these variances.
The Different Types of Evaporator Coils
The different types of evaporator coils are:
- A-coils: Shaped like the letter “A,” these coils are the most common. They’re typically found in vertical furnaces that are known for their efficient drainage due to their design. This is the most common type of furnace in the average home.
- N-coils (also known as Z-coils): These have a distinct zig-zag pattern that looks like the letter “N” or “Z.” They have more surface area for heat exchange but are more prone to freeze-ups and harder to clean than A-coils, which are why they’re less common.
- Slab coils: These are flat and compact coils used for horizontal air handlers where space is limited. They’re easier to clean but don’t operate as efficiently as other options because of their reduced surface area. Slabs aren’t very common and are usually only seen in buildings like old factories that have more outdated equipment.
Material and Design Differences
Along with the different types, evaporator coils can also be made from varying materials, such as:
- Copper: Coils made with copper are the most common since they have excellent thermal conductivity and are easy to repair. That said, they’re also more prone to corrosion over time.
- Aluminum: A coil made from aluminum is less likely to corrode than copper and is lighter. However, these coils are harder to repair if they are damaged.
- AlumaFin7 coils: These are a variation of aluminum coils. They’re smaller and more efficient lines made with aluminum for corrosion resistance and heat transfer efficiency. Plus, they feature louvered fins for better drainage and airflow. However, this option tends to be more expensive.
Conclusion
Buying a replacement evaporator coil can be a worthwhile investment if yours is having issues. You can find affordable options by looking for budget-friendly brands or retailers that help reduce costs.
While it can seem like a good idea to do a DIY install once you’ve purchased a new coil, it is generally not recommended unless you have significant HVAC knowledge to do so successfully.
Before buying an evaporator coil, review the specifications of your AC unit to ensure you purchase the right type, model, and size for your needs. Otherwise, you risk incompatibility and frustrations down the line.
Find Cheap Evaporator Coils at Surplus City Liquidators
When you need to replace your evaporator coil but don’t have a lot of money to spend, Surplus City Liquidators has you covered. We buy in bulk and work out deals with top brands and manufacturers to pass the savings on to you with brand-new HVAC parts at lower prices. Our online shopping platform ensures the security of your transactions with secure checkout processes and options like PayPal for added trust.
You can buy from us online and get parts shipped straight to your doorstep or come to one of our showrooms in Indiana or Texas. We’ll provide top-notch service, answering any questions along the way.
We have cheap evaporator coils ready for purchase. Start shopping today, or contact us with any other questions.
