Your air conditioning system relies on several essential components to keep your home comfortable and cool. When you know how these parts work, it’s easier to detect issues so you can get them repaired before they worsen. Here’s what every homeowner should know about the anatomy of their AC system. 

What Makes Up Your Air Conditioning System?

1. Refrigerant

Refrigerant is a chemical blend that absorbs heat from your inside air and journeys through a line to release the heat outside. This is the main process the allows your AC to function. Most of the other parts work primarily to aid the refrigerant’s journey.

Sometimes, the refrigerant line leaks. Without enough fluid, your AC can’t efficiently cool your home, and it must work harder to achieve consistent results. Over time, this added stress can cause the system to fail. You should schedule annual HVAC inspections with an experienced contractor to repair any leaks and ensure you have the right amount of refrigerant.

2. Compressor 

The compressor is a large electric pump located in the outdoor unit that pressurizes the refrigerant. Refrigerant requires pressure to circulate properly, making the compressor an essential part of the process.

When another part of the system fails, it often causes problems for the compressor. For example, if your condenser coil becomes dirty and your AC can’t expel heat efficiently, the compressor must work harder to cool your home and may break down. 

3. Condenser 

After pressurizing the refrigerant, the compressor moves it to the outdoor coil called the condenser. When flowing through the condenser, the refrigerant is cooled by a large fan. The coil also features fins that allow the heat to vent out of the refrigerant. 

A dirty condenser can’t properly expel heat because grime or debris can block the vents. During annual inspections, HVAC technicians thoroughly clean the condenser coil to ensure it runs efficiently. 

4. Evaporator Coils

After the condenser coil cools it, the refrigerant moves into the indoor evaporator coils. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the indoor air, and a fan blows air into the coil to cool your home. 

Evaporator coils can freeze due to low refrigerant levels or clogged air filters. This will prevent your unit from absorbing the heat inside your home.

Protect your air conditioning system with annual inspections from Ronnie Ritchie Service Co Inc. For 65 years, these fully licensed technicians have provided thorough AC maintenance services throughout Waynesboro, VA. Learn more about their services online or call (540) 942-1415 to schedule an appointment.