HVAC coil leaks can be the first of many warning signs indicating an HVAC system is not up to standard. This is due to the fact that on first sight, coil leaks may not inherently be visible, leading building managers to believe the larger problem could stem from another issue.
If air quality or temperature control begins to suffer, then companies should call in an engineer or technician to try and locate the root of the problem, and, many times, it lies with the coils. HVAC coils control how effectively air is cooled or heated, with filtered air passing over copper or aluminum coils at a high rate. When this process is interrupted, the air that reaches inside the building may be subpar, which in some cases, can cause enormous problems for a business.
For example, data centers store billions of dollars of expensive technology equipment for which the rest of the population relies upon for Internet access, data storage and telecommunications. These large machines require a cool environment at all times to keep them from overheating. If an HVAC chilled water coil is not cooling the air, then massive equipment failure can occur.
Many industries that make great use of HVAC units have extensive monitoring systems set up which can detect variations in air quality and control. These problems can be caused by pinhole leaks inside HVAC coils, which could possibly necessitate an all-out HVAC failure.
Stopping leaks
A coil can leak for a number of reasons, including poor installation, inability to withstand high heat and pressure levels and corrosion. Because water, gases and refrigerants pass through HVAC coils, chemicals can sometimes be left behind, which will stick to the interior walls of the coils and damage their structures.
That's why it's important to keep a watchful eye on how durable coils are and what compounds are used in the cooling or heating process. Under heavy duress, coils can form small leaks – a result of a small break. Typically, corrosion will eat away at the coils, creating a leak, which then allows water to flow out into the rest of the HVAC system.
To stop this from happening, coil stability needs to be maintained at all times and building managers should be mindful of any drastic changes in the performance of their HVAC units. If a leak is present, then the hole will have to be plugged. However, temporary solutions like sealants and epoxies will only stop the leak, not fully eradicate the problem.
It's best to replace HVAC coils that are already heavily damaged. Though it may cost more upfront, operational savings will be realized over time due to fewer HVAC breakdowns and more efficient electricity use. Coating replacement coils in a protective layer of polyurethane will ensure that corrosion doesn't cause future pinhole leaks. With HVAC coil coatings, coils can work efficiently for years longer than a standard coil.
Rahn Industries has a full lineup of spray and immersion (dip)/ Bake protective coatings to meet your needs.