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No. Your furnace does not run your air conditioner. Both units use the same system of ductwork to move conditioned air throughout your home, but you can have a furnace without having an air conditioner and vice versa. Furnaces are only for heating your home. You can buy a system that does both, however, like a split system or a heat pump (yes, heat pumps cool, too).

When an evaporator coil becomes faulty, it can result in various problems within your HVAC system. These problems could include reduced cooling or heating capabilities due to ice formation and obstructed airflow, along with increased energy consumption and higher bills. Additionally, a damaged coil may lead to refrigerant leaks, which are environmentally harmful and decrease overall system efficiency.

Ultimately, if not addressed right away, a bad evaporator coil can even lead to a complete failure of your HVAC system. That’s why timely repair or replacement is crucial to maintaining your family’s comfort and your HVAC’s efficiency.

To keep your air conditioner in good working condition, you should have it serviced by a professional at least once per year, ideally in the spring before the cooling season begins. If your AC unit is 10 years or older, consider servicing it twice a year (once in the spring and once in the fall) to catch potential problems early and help it reach its full lifespan. During a service visit, a technician will inspect, clean, and replace parts as needed. Regular maintenance helps avoid costly repairs. As a DIY task, you can also clean the evaporator coils annually.

The cost to replace an AC unit averages around $5,900, with a typical range between $3,900 and $8,020. The final price depends on several factors, including the type and size of the air conditioner, its efficiency rating, your geographic region, and labor costs for installation. Smaller units like portable and window ACs are much less expensive, costing between $90 and $550, compared to central or ductless systems. If your current unit is less than 10 years old, repairing it may be more cost-effective than a full replacement.