Although many people take air conditioning for granted, this modern luxury helped pave the way for westward expansion, making it possible for people to settle in harsher climates in the western United States. However, learning more about how your system works allows you to help it remain in top condition. Below is a brief guide to how your AC system maintains the perfect temperature, as well as how HVAC contractors can help when you experience problems. 

How Do Air Conditioners Work? 

Standard split air conditioning systems have two basic components—an outdoor unit that contains a fan and compressor as well as an indoor unit that contains an air handler. The compressor’s responsibility is to condense and circulate refrigerant through your system, where it absorbs heat to dissipate outdoors. To cool air, the condenser starts converting the gas refrigerant into a liquid by compressing it. Next, it moves the liquid through small pipes into your house where it travels through the cooling coils of the air handler.

Once in the coils, the refrigerant converts from a liquid to a gas, absorbing heat. As air is circulated through the coils, heat and moisture are removed from the air, since humidity condenses when it comes in contact with metal at a low temperature. Next, the cooled air is circulated through your home through the vents, and the refrigerant in the cooling coils moves back through the system to the compressor. The gas is once again compressed into a liquid, and the cycle continues. 

What Can You Do to Protect Your System? 

Routine maintenance is crucial for your air conditioner because it contains so many moving parts. Air filters should be changed regularly to preserve airflow and prevent dust accumulation on cooling coils, and vent covers should be cleaned to prevent buildup.

Your system should also be inspected by HVAC contractors for any mechanical issues before summer is in full swing, preventing system breakdowns and efficiency problems. You should schedule a routine inspection once a year, as well as whenever you notice an issue. 

 

Whether you need an inspection or an upgrade, turn to the HVAC contractors at Critical Air for help. These experienced HVAC contractors offer full-service heating and air conditioning repairs to people throughout the greater Sugar Land, TX, area, including air conditioning installations and air quality inspections. Learn more about their specials by visiting them online, or give their team a call at (281) 468-4250.