Although it’s best to call a professional for AC repairs, you should still have a basic understanding of how the system works. With this knowledge, you can detect problems quickly, getting help before they linger and become worse. To take better care of your cooling system, below is a brief overview of the main components and the function of each. 

5 Important Parts of Your Air Conditioning System

1. Compressor

Housed in the outdoor unit, the compressor is a motor-like device that compresses the refrigerant to raise its temperature and turn it into a pressurized gas. Pressure helps move the gas to the outdoor coil so it can release the heat. Regular maintenance will prevent compressor failure.

An HVAC contractor will clean the condenser coils so the system can discharge enough heat. This, in turn, will prevent pressure and temperature fluctuations that could cause the compressor to overheat and burn out. 

2. Refrigerant

Running through the AC system’s cooling tubes and coils in a closed loop, the refrigerant turns from liquid to gas to absorb heat inside the house. After releasing the heat outside, refrigerant reverts back to its liquid form. If the air isn’t getting as cool as it should, an AC repair specialist might need to replace refrigerant lines. Fluid can seep out of cracks and corroded areas, not leaving enough to extract heat from the air.

3. Condenser 

The compressor, along with other important AC system components, is housed in the outdoor condenser unit. The main function of the unit is to convert refrigerant from a gas to a liquid. If any component inside the condenser unit—including the circuit board, tubing, motor, or fans—are dirty or damaged, it could lead to a breakdown. That’s why you should schedule routine inspections. 

4. Evaporator Coil

In its low-pressure liquid form, refrigerant is sent through tubing to the copper, aluminum, or steel evaporator coil, which is where heat from inside of the house is absorbed. If airflow through the unit is restricted, the evaporator coil could freeze, which prevents heat absorption. This could be to blame for the blast of warm air coming from vents and registers. 

5. Fans

While refrigerant is in the evaporator coil, a blower fan blows hot air over the metal to keep it from freezing. Another fan blows air over the condenser to release the heat outside. Worn belts, motor malfunctions, and lack of lubrication can compromise the ability of either fan to function properly.

To prevent issues with any of the above components or additional problems, schedule annual checkups with the team at AAA Heating & Air Conditioning Service Inc. in Lexington, KY. In business for over five decades, the company provides preventative HVAC maintenance as well as heating and AC repairs to keep clients’ homes comfortable year-round. For an appointment in the Fayette County area, call (859) 254-8838, or visit the AC repair specialists online to view the maintenance agreements.