Air Excellence Inc. has been providing top-notch air conditioning services for many years and is one of the best AC contractors in Steubenville, OH, and surrounding areas. We understand the importance of knowing the critical components of your air conditioner.
In this blog, we’ll give you an in-depth look into the key components of an air conditioner and how they function.
Compressor:
The compressor is a motor-driven component that compresses the refrigerant to a high-pressure, high-temperature gas. This gas then moves to the condenser coil, releasing the heat it has absorbed, and cools back down to a low-pressure gas. The compressor plays a crucial role in the cooling process, as it compresses and pumps refrigerant through the system.
Evaporator coil:
The evaporator coil is where the refrigerant, in its gaseous form, absorbs heat from the indoor air. This process results in cooled air being sent back into the home. The evaporator coil is typically made of copper or aluminum and is located inside the indoor unit of the air conditioner.
Condenser coil:
The condenser coil is located outside the air conditioner and is responsible for releasing the heat absorbed by the refrigerant. As the high-pressure refrigerant gas from the compressor passes through the condenser coil, it changes back into a low-pressure gas, releasing heat in the process. The condenser coil is typically made of copper or aluminum and is protected by a metal casing.
Expansion valve:
The expansion valve is a small component that regulates refrigerant flow into the evaporator coil. It helps ensure that the right amount of refrigerant flows into the coil, maximizing efficiency and cooling. The expansion valve works by controlling the pressure of refrigerant as it enters the evaporator coil.
Refrigerant:
Refrigerant is a chemical substance used in air conditioners to absorb and release heat. The refrigerant allows the air conditioner to transfer heat from the inside of your home to the outside. The most common type of refrigerant used in air conditioners today is R-410A, which is known for its efficiency and environmental friendliness.
Thermostat:
The thermostat is responsible for controlling the temperature in your home. It sends signals to the air conditioner to turn on and off, depending on the temperature inside your home. The thermostat is typically located in a central location, such as a hallway or living room, and can be either mechanical or digital. Digital thermostats offer more advanced features, such as programmable schedules, remote control, and automatic temperature sensing.
Fan:
The fan is responsible for circulating the air throughout your home. The fan inside the indoor unit circulates the cooled air, while the fan in the outdoor unit circulates air over the condenser coil, helping to dissipate heat. The fan is a crucial component of the air conditioner, as it ensures that the cooled air is distributed evenly throughout the home.
Ducts:
Ducts are responsible for distributing the cooled air throughout your home. They connect indoor and outdoor units and are typically made of metal or flexible plastic. The size and layout of your ducts will impact the efficiency of your air conditioner, so it’s essential to have them properly installed. In addition, regular maintenance of your ducts, such as cleaning and sealing, is necessary to ensure that they are functioning optimally.
Understanding your air conditioner’s key components can help you make informed decisions about purchasing and maintaining your air conditioning system. Regular maintenance and inspections ensure that your air conditioner operates at its best, providing you with efficient and reliable cooling for many years.
Contact Air Excellence Inc. for AC Services
We have been providing services in the area for over a decade and are committed to providing you with quality installation or AC repair services in Steubenville and surrounding areas. Our highly trained and experienced technicians use the latest techniques to ensure that your air conditioner operates at peak efficiency. We understand the importance of keeping your home comfortable, so call today or visit our website for more information.