What It Does
Located inside the freezer or behind a rear panel in the fridge cabinet, the evaporator coil absorbs heat from inside the refrigerator as refrigerant expands through it. This is the component that actually makes the air inside your fridge cold.
Why It Fails
Evaporator coils can develop cracks or pinhole leaks due to metal fatigue or corrosion over time. Ice buildup caused by a faulty defrost system can also damage the coil. Refrigerant leaks from the evaporator are one of the most common sealed-system failures.
Signs It Needs Replacing
- Fridge is warm but the freezer is still cool (or both sections are warm)
- Unusual frost patterns on or around the coil
- Oily residue visible on the coil surface
Estimated Part Cost
- Evaporator coil for residential fridge: $100 – $300
- Brand-specific OEM coil (French door, side-by-side): $200 – $500
Estimated Labour Cost
- Labour only: $150 – $350
- Full replacement (parts + labour + refrigerant): $300 – $700
- Difficult-access models or complex sealed-system work: up to $1,000+
Key Consideration
Because the evaporator coil is embedded inside the sealed refrigerant circuit, replacing it requires licensed refrigerant handling. It is not a DIY repair, and improper installation will result in further leaks.