HVAC Corrosion 101

February 2, 2022

HVAC Corrosion 101

72 Degrees Air Conditioning and Heating-HVAC-Corrosion-101

You might be surprised to learn that your HVAC unit is operating inefficiently. This could be due to coil corrosion, which is a serious issue. HVAC evaporator coil corrosion could either warrant a major repair or a full replacement. In this post, Cooper Brothers, Inc, the leading air conditioner replacement expert, gives you the rundown on HVAC corrosion and shares some tips for preventing it. 


Causes of HVAC Corrosion


In recent years, HVAC experts have found that corroded coils occur frequently in homes in the south where home builders unknowingly used drywall imported from China. This drywall emits sulfurous gas that causes a chemical reaction when it meets the evaporator coils and wiring. As a result, the evaporator coils form pits, with corrosion shortly following.


Your air conditioner repair expert will tell you that copper corrosion can also occur when it’s exposed to formic or acetic acids, which are commonly found in household products such as cleaning solutions, adhesives, paint and plywood. You can tell if this is the case if you spot blue or black deposits on your coils. Pinhole leaks will form, and refrigerant will leak out, rendering your HVAC unit inoperable.


Corrosion Prevention Tips


It’s important to avoid products that can cause coil corrosion so that you can protect your evaporator coil, as well as your own wellbeing. As much as possible, use building materials that emit little to no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It also helps to schedule annual inspections and HVAC cleaning to prevent coil damage. Your contractor will use a pH-balanced cleaner and a soft cloth. If there’s damage, they’ll repair it accordingly.


Cooper Brothers, Inc. is the top air quality HVAC expert to count on for the highest-quality service. Our service areas include the cities in and around San Jose, CA. 

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