Air conditioners are crucial appliances, consisting of several key components that work together to create comfortable indoor air. Maintaining HVAC systems and repairing them when they malfunction is the role of highly trained HVAC industry professionals. Have you thought about starting a career in the HVAC industry? Here’s a taste of what you’ll need to know.
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Parts of an Air Conditioning Unit and How They Work
Modern air conditioning systems have five main components that allow them to work. These are:
- Evaporator: Ambient indoor air comes into contact with the evaporator coils. Refrigerant inside the coils absorbs heat from the air, and the cooled air is recirculated.
- Compressor: The compressor pressurizes the refrigerant, turning it from a liquid to a gas.
- Condenser: The condenser transfers the heat contained in the refrigerant gas outdoors.
- Expansion Valve: Before the refrigerant can re-enter the evaporator, it must be cooled in the expansion valve. This component removes pressure from the refrigerant, allowing it to cool back down into a liquid.
- Air Filter: The air filter is a key component in keeping the conditioned air clean before blowing it back into the system. It picks up dust, mold, debris and other pollutants as the cooled air is blown through it and into the home.
Common Reasons for Air Conditioner Breakdowns
Modern air conditioning systems are complex, and there are many possible causes for them to malfunction. However, some of the most common reasons for breakdowns include:
- Clogged Filters: A clogged filter prevents free airflow in an HVAC system. It can cause issues with overheating and damaged components.
- Refrigerant Leaks: An AC relies on refrigerant to transfer heat and cool air that is circulated within the HVAC system. When that refrigerant leaks, the AC can no longer effectively cool air.
- Dirty Coils: Heat is transferred through coils in the AC system. When they become dirty, that can make it more difficult for heat to transfer effectively.
- Thermostat Sensor Malfunctions: A thermometer measures the temperature of air coming into it so the system can determine whether air needs to be cooled. When this malfunctions, the HVAC doesn’t always kick on when it should or may activate more frequently than necessary.
- Drain Clogs: As warm air is rapidly cooled, it creates condensation that can build up. Typically, this water collects on a tray underneath the evaporator coils and then goes through a drain line. When the drain line clogs or cracks, it can cause further damage within the AC or mold to grow.
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Becoming an HVAC Technician
Homeowners and businesses depend on HVAC systems to stay comfortable, whatever the weather. This means that HVAC technicians will always be needed to address the inevitable breakdowns. If you’re interested in joining this in-demand field, the best way to start your career is to prepare with a training program like the one offered by ETI School of Skilled Trades. In as little as seven months, you can develop the skills you need to install, maintain and repair air conditioning units and other HVAC equipment. Enroll today!
Key Takeaways
What are the main components of an air conditioning system?
The main components include the evaporator, compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and air filter, which work together to cool and circulate indoor air.
What are some common causes of air conditioner malfunctions?
Common issues include clogged air filters, refrigerant leaks, dirty coils, thermostat sensor problems, and clogged condensate drains.
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