Evaporator
Definition and meaning of Evaporator in real estate.
An evaporator is a system of metal coils containing cold refrigerant that absorbs heat from the surrounding air to cool a building or appliance. In residential real estate, this component is typically located inside the indoor air handler or furnace plenum of a central air conditioning system.
In more detail
The evaporator works by allowing liquid refrigerant to expand into a gas, which drops its temperature rapidly. As warm indoor air is blown across these cold coils, the refrigerant absorbs the heat, cooling the air before it is circulated through the home. This process also pulls moisture out of the air, helping to dehumidify the living space.
If the evaporator coils become dirty or if refrigerant levels drop, the system may freeze or fail to cool, leading to high utility bills and potential system damage. Home buyers should ensure the HVAC system, including the evaporator coil, is inspected during the home purchase process.
Key facts
| Category | Property Types & Construction |
|---|---|
| Location | Typically found inside the indoor air handler or furnace cabinet |
| Common maintenance | Regularly changing air filters to keep the coils clean |
| Sign of failure | Ice buildup on the indoor unit or warm air blowing from vents |
A home inspector notes that a house's air conditioning unit is running constantly but not cooling the home. Upon inspection of the indoor air handler, the inspector finds that the evaporator coils are covered in dust and blocked, preventing proper heat transfer.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an evaporator and a condenser?
The evaporator is located inside the home and absorbs heat to cool the indoor air, while the condenser is located outside and releases the absorbed heat into the outdoor environment.
How often should evaporator coils be cleaned?
Evaporator coils should typically be inspected annually and cleaned by a licensed heating, ventilation, and air conditioning professional if dust or mold has accumulated.