Get to Know the Parts of Your Air Conditioner

Love the cool, fresh air your AC provides, but have no clue how it works? Interested in an intimate look at your air conditioning unit? Want to impress with your knowledge of AC pieces and parts?

Naming all the parts of your air conditioning unit probably isn’t a great conversation starter, but as a homeowner, getting to know this important piece of equipment is to your benefit. If a problem with your HVAC ever pops up, you’ll be better equipped to handle it. Or, if you’re ever in the market for a new unit, knowing something about air conditioners will make you a smarter consumer.

Without further ado, meet five basic components of your AC unit!

• Evaporator: a series of coils which convert refrigerant liquid to gas, creating a cooling effect. A fan blows across the cold coils to bring cool air into the house.
• Expansion Valve: de-pressurizes liquid refrigerant, allowing the evaporator to do its job. 
• Condenser: condenses refrigerant vapor into a liquid which is used by the evaporator. 
• Compressor: pressurizes refrigerant so the condenser can work its magic, turning gas to liquid.
• Lineset: the copper highway which transports refrigerant between the other components.

With a few simple definitions, you now understand the basics of how an AC unit works. Now put that knowledge to work!

Still want to know more about your air conditioner? Give us a call! We’re happy to answer questions or provide heating and cooling services in Ann Arbor. CMR Mechanical prides itself on honest, quality service and we are ready to help you today!