An evaporator coil operates as an important part of an air conditioning or heat pump system and helps supply cool air to the home. Working with liquid refrigerant and a blower motor or fan, the evaporator coil helps remove heat energy from the air, which makes the room feel cooler.

Certain evaporator coils come built inside the air handler or packaged unit, while others come encased in their own cabinet. A cased coil enclosed in its own cabinet can mount near the air handler. They typically mount above or below the air handler depending on the direction of the airflow.

To maintain an evaporator coil, change HVAC filters regularly to keep up airflow and to keep the coil surfaces free of dirt. Contact an HVAC professional for cleaning as well as maintaining the refrigerant level. Maintaining airflow and refrigerant levels can help avoid a frozen evaporator coil.

In split system air conditioners, refrigerant circulates between the indoor unit and the outdoor unit.

• As it moves, the refrigerant travels between the evaporator and condenser coils. As the refrigerant passes through the evaporator coil, the blower fan pulls hot air from the room and passes it over the coil.
• The refrigerant absorbs the heat from the air and travels to the compressor and condenser coil.
• Using pressure, the condenser coil allows the refrigerant to release the heat energy.
• The refrigerant condenses back into a liquid and the process repeats until the home reaches the set temperature.

This heat transfer process keeps your home's air cool and comfortable.

An A-Coil works as a type of evaporator coil. The coils form two slanted sides connected at the top, resembling the letter 'A.' The shape allows moisture collecting on the coil to drip into a drain pan, which then drains out of the home or building.