When the temps rise and your AC is blowing warm air in Marietta, Smyrna, Roswell and surround; knowing the main parts of your AC system can help you troubleshoot temporarily before your Guardian expert can arrive for the AC repair. Here's a list of the major components of your AC system and a little insight into what to expect when the AC fails.
Before we dive into the technical, let's get to the basics of your system and and how it actually works. It's pretty simple actually. The whole concept behind your air conditioning unit is heat transfer. The AC uses chemicals we call refrigerant (more popularly Freon™), that transfer the heat energy from the inside of the property to the outside air. Meanwhile, the air inside your home is replaced with cooler air. Now to the important parts of your system:
Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil is the component inside your home that absorbs the heat from the air inside your home. It is either attached to your furnace or inside your air handler. It works hand in hand with your condenser coil in the heat exchange process. Some of the common problems you will find in your home that can mean a malfunctioning evaporator coil are:
- warm air coming from the vents
- AC starts and stops but does not provide you with cool air relief
- possible refrigerant leak
- noises such as hissing or banging coming from the cooling system
- AC does not turn on
The evaporator coil is a delicate component of your system and requires expert attention if suspect. Make sure to have a Guardian Expert diagnose and provide you with estimate of ac repairs in the event you have the above problems in your home. Often times a good evaluation and cleaning can help keep your evaporator coil in top shape.
Compressor
Also known as the "heart" of your AC system, the compressor circulates the refrigerant and pressurizes the system. It is an integral part of your HVAC system. Common problem you may encounter that can signify a bad or damaged compressor are:
- warm air coming from the vents
- weakened or low air flow from your HVAC vents
- humming noises coming from your condensing unit
Replacing or repairing your compressor is a big job that requires a pro. More often than not, the ac repair will require a replacement of your compressor. Having a discussion of options with your Guardian Expert can help you make the best choice to keep your home comfortable. Proper HVAC maintenance and tune ups can help prevent unforeseen breakdowns .
Circulating Fan
The circulating fan runs with both your air conditioner and furnace. It draws air in through the intake vents and out into your home after passing through the filter and evaporator coil. As you can expect, this is a component that gets a lot of usage throughout the seasons. Especially if you are a homeowner that like to keep the fan set to "on" (not recommended). During your routine visits you can expect your fan to be checked, and also lubricated/balanced. Preventative maintenance is key to extending the life of of your fan. Discuss what the best features/program is for your fan to keep your energy costs down and home comfortable. Are you experiencing the following issues?
- grinding, humming, screeching or squealing, rattling, clanking or banking sounds
- no air flow into your home
- weak air flow from your vents
- higher than normal energy costs
The plus side of a problem with your circulating fan or motor is that it can be replaced without having to change your whole system. Keeping your system checked regularly like most mechanical components helps prevent premature AC breakdowns. Contact Guardian today to learn about your single tune ups or preventative maintenance plan! Getting 1-2 additional years out of your current system can save you from spending thousands prematurely.
Condensing Coil and Fan
When the hot refrigerant that has absorbed the heat from your home flows in o the condenser, the fan blows outdoor air on the coils. This is crucial in cooling the coils and returning the refrigerant from a gas to liquid state so it can continue pulling the heat from your home. When you picture your AC unit sitting on the side of your home, this is the condensing coil and fan. Many issues can arise causing and AC breakdown with this component that can hinder not only the efficiency of the operation but also proper cooling of your home:
- loose, flat or bent fan blades can make unnecessary noise
- the "fins" may be clogged, bent or eroded which can limit air flow
- growth of shrubs or items too close to the unit can dramatically impact energy costs and air flow
- damaged or bent outer casing can impact operation
Fortunately, aside from major impact or damage, many of the issues that we often see with condensing fans can be easily remedied. The worst case scenario is a refrigerant leak which may mean full replacement.
Knowing what components play the a role in cooling your home help you as a homeowner decide the urgency of your ac breakdown. With proper preventative maintenance, many of these AC repairs can be prevented, caught early and addressed before you're without air conditioning mid summer. In the event you do find yourself with no air or warm air coming from your vents, a Guardian Expert can take care of and handle your diagnosis and repair quickly. Emergency AC repair is our specialty! Contact us today to get your working HVAC system checked for potential breakdown or schedule online here.
