When summer heat hits and your AC starts blowing warm air, knowing the main parts of your air conditioning system can help you troubleshoot temporarily before our Guardian Home Experts arrive for professional AC repair in Marietta, Smyrna, Roswell, and surrounding areas. Here's a breakdown of the essential HVAC components and what to expect if your AC system fails.
How Your Air Conditioner Works: Heat Transfer Basics
Your HVAC system works by transferring heat from inside your home to the outside. The refrigerant (commonly known as Freon™) absorbs heat indoors and releases it outdoors, replacing warm indoor air with cool air for your comfort.
Major Air Conditioning Components & Common Issues:
1. Evaporator Coil
- Located inside your home, attached to your furnace or air handler
- Absorbs heat from indoor air as part of the heat exchange process
- Signs of evaporator coil problems: warm air from vents, AC cycling on/off without cooling, hissing noises, possible refrigerant leaks, or AC not turning on
- Requires expert diagnosis and cleaning to maintain optimal performance and prevent costly repairs
2. Compressor (The Heart of Your HVAC System)
- Circulates refrigerant and pressurizes the system
- Common compressor issues: warm air output, weak airflow, humming noises from the outdoor condensing unit
- Compressor repair or replacement is complex and should be handled by licensed HVAC professionals
- Regular HVAC maintenance helps prevent compressor failure and unexpected breakdowns
3. Circulating Fan
- Works with both your air conditioner and furnace to move air through your home
- Common fan problems: unusual noises (grinding, screeching, rattling), weak or no airflow, increased energy bills
- Fan motor replacement can extend system life without full HVAC replacement
- Routine lubrication, balancing, and maintenance keep the fan running efficiently and reduce energy costs
4. Condensing Coil and Outdoor Fan
- Located in your outdoor unit, the condensing coil releases heat absorbed from inside your home
- The outdoor fan blows air over the coil to cool the refrigerant and convert it back to liquid
- Common issues: bent or damaged fan blades, clogged or bent fins, restricted airflow due to nearby shrubs or debris, damaged casing
- Many problems can be fixed with cleaning and minor repairs; severe damage or refrigerant leaks may require coil replacement
Why Preventative HVAC Maintenance Matters
Regular tune-ups and system inspections by Guardian Home Experts can catch issues early, extend the life of your HVAC equipment, improve energy efficiency, and prevent unexpected AC breakdowns during Atlanta's hottest months.
Need Fast, Reliable AC Repair or Maintenance?
If your air conditioner is blowing warm air or not working properly, don't wait. Contact Guardian Home Experts today for emergency AC repair, routine maintenance, or to schedule a free in-home estimate for a new HVAC system. We proudly serve homeowners in Marietta, Smyrna, Roswell, and the greater metro Atlanta area with licensed, insured HVAC technicians and some of the longest warranties in the industry.
Call us or book online now to keep your home comfortable all summer long!
