During the warmer months of the year, your central air conditioning system is one of the most important aspects of your home. It’s what keeps you and your loved ones cool, comfortable, and safe from the treacherous outdoor heat. So, when your AC unit isn’t working, it feels like a complete disaster.
Your central air conditioner is made up of four critical elements: the condensing unit, evaporator coil, blower fan, and thermostat. Each component works together to cool down your home and maintain your comfort. But just how so? Let’s take a look at how a central air conditioner unit works and common types of problems.
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Condensing System
The condensing system is the large box that is located on the side of your house or backyard. Inside the condensing unit is where the condenser coils, the compressor, and the condenser fan reside. The compressor of a central air conditioner unit works like a pump, squeezing refrigerant into the condenser coils where the gas is transformed into a warm liquid. The condenser coils, with the help of the condenser fan, will then work to extract the heat while the liquid travels through them. After the refrigerant has traveled to the condenser coils, it is sent to the evaporator coils.
Evaporator Coils
The evaporator coils can usually be found at the top of the furnace in your house. They rely on the furnace’s central air ducts. Now that the refrigerant, transformed into a cooled liquid, has traveled from the condensing system, it moves through the evaporator coils. This causes the refrigerant to convert to a cold gas. Next, the refrigerant gas travels into a suction line attached to the compressor. This line is engineered to push the gas to the condensing system. This process will repeat itself. The evaporator coils in a central air conditioner unit work with the fan to decrease the temperature of the air before it is sent into your house.
The blower fan is located inside of the furnace. Its job simply requires blowing air. The blower fan of an air conditioner works by pulling air in through the return vents that are located in each room of your house. Next, the fan blows the warm air through the cold evaporator coils to remove excess heat energy. Once the air is cold, the fan blows the air to your air ducts and each area of your house. The air will then circulate the room and withdraw back through the return vent. This process repeats, again and again, until the room temperature matches the temperature set on the thermostat.
6 Common Signs That May Indicate a Problem With Your Central Air Conditioner
If you’re having trouble with your central air conditioning unit, it’s important to contact a professional technician and get the help you need right away! Here are some common signs that your AC unit may need repair.
Poor Airflow
Weak airflow may be caused by common air conditioner issues including contaminated air filters or a malfunctioning blower motor.
Air Conditioner Circulates Warm Air
Are you noticing that the air traveling through your vents isn’t as cold as usual? This could be the result of many issues: duct leakage, condenser issues, and low refrigerant. Whatever the case may be, your air conditioner is working overtime to maintain comfortable temperatures, which can significantly increase your utility bills.
Unusual Noises
If your air conditioner is making a banging, grinding, or otherwise unusual noise, it may be time to get your unit inspected. All air conditioning systems are designed to run quietly. Strange noises within the unit could be the result of loose belts, broken components, or fallen debris. Contact a technician right away to avoid detrimental AC damage.
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Bad Smells
Bad odors coming from your system are a sure indication that something is wrong and needs immediate attention! From burned-out wire insulation to mold growth, these issues can be harmful to you and your family. If you are unaware of how an air conditioner works, do not attempt to perform a repair or tune-up on your own. Call a licensed HVAC technician in your area to restore the functionality of your air conditioning system.
Moisture Accumulation
Central air conditioning systems are devised to remain dry at all times. If not dry, mildew, mold, and other substances accumulate in your unit, and even worse, your home. If you detect a leak, your system may experience a blocked or broken condensate drain. Seek a knowledgeable HVAC technician right away!
Thermostat Problems
Your air conditioning system is not always the culprit; Sometimes it’s your thermostat. Do you experience varied temperature zones throughout your home? Does your home temperature not match the thermostat setting? These small incidents could point to a faulty thermostat. Contact a professional technician to resolve your thermostat issues.
Air Conditioning Services Near You in Florida
For all your air conditioning needs, Fenwick Homes Services has expert knowledge and experience to cool your home and keep you comfortable. If you’re experiencing any air conditioner issues, no matter how big or small, give our team a call by phone at (904) 217-5694 or book an appointment online. Fenwick Homes Services offers air conditioning repair, installation, and tune-up services for homeowners throughout the Florida area. From a bad blower motor to duct leakage, there’s nothing our team can’t handle.
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