According to EIA’s Residential Energy Consumption Survey, about 88% of U.S. households use air conditioning (AC).
In North Port’s punishing summer heat, these systems work overtime to keep families safe. While these units are built to endure, most breakdowns can be traced to just a handful of critical AC components.
Here are the 5 essential AC parts most likely to need professional attention, and what you should know about each.
1. Compressor
At the center of your AC system is the compressor – the heart of your cooling unit. It helps circulate refrigerant through the system, allowing it to cool your home. When the compressor fails, your HVAC systems in North Port will struggle to function efficiently.
Common signs of compressor trouble include:
- Loud noises
- Frequent system shutoffs
- Warm air blowing from the vents
Regular maintenance can prolong its lifespan, but once it is damaged, prompt repairs may be necessary. Catching these issues early helps to avoid costly replacements.
2. Condenser Coil
If your AC unit breaks down, it may be due to a malfunctioning condenser coil. Your condenser coil works alongside the compressor to release heat from your home. Since it’s located outside, it’s prone to dirt, debris, and damage from the elements.
When the condenser coil is damaged, your system has to work much harder to cool the air. As a result, you may have to deal with higher energy bills and system failure. Ensure you keep this cooling system component clean to extend its lifespan.
3. Evaporator Coil
Similar to condenser coils, evaporator coils absorb heat from your home’s air and cool it down. If these coils freeze due to low refrigerant levels or airflow issues, your AC will struggle to function properly. Check your evaporator coil if you notice warm air from the vents or excessive moisture around your unit.
4. Fan Motor
The fan motor is one of the most overlooked air conditioning parts, but it’s important. This motor powers the fan that blows cool air into your home and helps remove hot air from the system. Without it, your AC can’t circulate air well.
If your fan motor is faulty, you may hear grinding noises or notice weak airflow from your vents. Ensure you call professional AC technicians to address fan motor issues quickly.
5. Thermostat
The thermostat controls the temperature in your home – regulating when the AC turns on and off. A malfunctioning thermostat can cause inconsistent temperatures. It can also lead to unnecessary wear on your cooling system components.
If you find your air conditioning parts are working harder than usual, consider checking your thermostat. Sometimes, a broken thermostat can be as simple as a bad battery or improper calibration. However, call an AC repair technician for more serious cases.
Keep Your AC Components Running Smoothly
Your air conditioner is a complex unit with many parts. Knowing the most common AC components that’ll need repair can save you time and money.
Ready to keep your North Port home cool and comfortable? Trust the experts at Cliffs Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. Our skilled technicians are available 24/7 and fully equipped for fast and efficient repairs.
Get in touch with us to schedule an appointment.
Get Help For Your Weird AC Sounds
Those weird AC sounds are trying to tell you something. Don’t ignore them.
If you’re experiencing any out-of-the ordinary AC phenomena, get in touch with us today. Contact us and we’ll get back to you quickly. Or, call our emergency service number and we’ll speak with you instantly.