As every homeowner knows, an air conditioner is a device which is used to cool the air inside your house. Having a basic understanding of the air conditioner parts and functions will help know what you should look for when buying a new AC unit and having your system installed. To make a wise purchasing decision and help prevent future air conditioner problems, start with the basics. There are three major parts of an air conditioner: the condenser, the compressor and the evaporator coil. While the first two are located on the exterior to the air conditioning unit, the evaporator coil is inside the machine.
Essential Parts Of An Air Conditioning Unit
As we’ve already mentioned, the compressor, the condenser and the evaporator coil are the three main parts of an air conditioner. Besides these, an air conditioner also has a hot coil and a cool coil on the outside and inside, respectively. Each unit also has two fans and a control circuit to modify the temperature. However, the most important component of the parts we have reviewed is the compressor.
The Compressor
This part can function for many years. If your air conditioner is old and the compressor has a fault, it can be replaced without needing to invest in a new unit. The compressor is the part of your air conditioner which releases the cool gas. Most HVAC companies purchase a compressor directly from the manufacturer and install it into the air conditioners their customers select.
An experienced heating and cooling professional will recommend that you buy an air conditioner from a company that makes its own compressors. Companies also give warranties on compressors, which your technician will tell you about when a part is installed.
The Condenser
The condenser is where the liquid is converted back into gas again. Like the compressor, the condenser can be replaced if it develops faults, as can the coils. If a coil malfunctions, your unit will cease to produce consistent results. Manufacturers recommend that you service your air conditioner regularly so that all the parts last longer and so that needed repairs are made sooner, rather than later.
A homeowner can select the external cover of a condenser, according to the colors and shades that match the home and family’s style. This cover has no function, so any decision is purely for aesthetics.
Importance Of Replacing Parts
Of all an air conditioner’s components, the compressor remains the most valuable and costly part, which is one reason why air conditioner manufacturers always provide a warranty on this component. A compressor of superior make and quality has a long life and can function fine for years. If the original compressor gives you trouble, it can be easily substituted with a new one.
Finding a brand new compressor to fit in your old air conditioner is a relatively easy process. However, experts will recommend choosing a compressor that’s the same brand as that of the rest of the appliance. In some cases, this is not possible, because only a handful of companies make their own compressors.
As we’ve already discussed, the evaporator coil and condenser in an air conditioner can be replaced too. So can be the coils, in case they wear out. Any problematic coil can lead to defective heat-dissipation and result in a major malfunctioning if not addressed. The two fans are the simplest of air conditioner parts that can be easily replaced, precisely because they are fixed with screws on the outside and with wires inside into the air conditioner circuit board.
The outmost cover of the air conditioning unit is the final component. As we’ve pointed out, it’s just there to add a nice finishing touch to the look and feel of the machine. Usually, these come in molded plastic materials and are available in various colors and designs. The same holds true for the buttons and knobs in the air conditioner. They can be swapped out to better match your preference or to match your home. If your air conditioner faces the road, your installer may recommend fitting a water-carrying pipe to it.
ABC Can Help You Better Understand Your Heating And Cooling System
In the end, your air conditioning unit is a complex system that works hard to maintain our temperature and comfort while indoors. A trusted professional can take the time to explain how your unit works and how often each part needs to be replaced. The reliable and friendly team at ABC Home & Commercial Services can do just that, along with making any needed repairs, installing a new unit and even helping you make adjustments to become more energy efficient.
