Summer months always seem a bit longer in the Dallas area, and when the mercury starts to rise, Texans take refuge in their homes. For the better part of the last century, air conditioning systems have made the dog days of summer much more enjoyable. Having a properly working air conditioning system not only keeps your family comfortable, but during extreme heat, it can be a lifesaver.
Of a home’s major systems, HVAC systems are among the most complex. They remove heat from inside your home and disperse cooled air to regulate the temperature even as the outside heat reaches into the triple digits. Having a basic understanding of how your system works is part of homeownership, and while some maintenance can be managed by any DIYer, repairs should be left to the professionals.
AC on the fritz? Does your home feel like it is struggling to say cool? Regular maintenance or emergency service, know that the Dial1 Johnson team has you covered. With offices across the metroplex, we can solve any Waxahachie air conditioning issues.
Components of an Air Conditioning System
The majority of homeowners know that there is an outside unit and an inside unit that comprise their Waxahachie air conditioning system. This article is meant to go a bit deeper into the major components to help you understand each of their functions and why maintenance is critical to keep everything working in unison.
Compressor
Starting with the outside of your unit, the first major component that you need to know about is the compressor. Compressors take low-pressure gases and compress them into a high-pressure gas, or refrigerant. The refrigerant maintains a high temperature until it passes through the condenser.
If we were to compare your air conditioning system to your car, the compressor would be the engine. It is the driving force behind the AC and like your car engine, should be regularly maintained by a professional technician at least once a year.
Condenser Coils
Once the high-pressure gas exits the compressor, it passes through the condenser coils where a fan cools the gas and is transformed into a cooled liquid. At this point, the liquid is ready to be sent to the inside unit.
When problems arise with your condenser coils one of the two following areas is generally to blame. The fan plays a critical role in pushing the high-pressure gases through the condenser. Should the fan not be able to get adequate airflow, the system will not work properly. Make sure to keep debris away from the unit, and keep the grass trimmed to provide optimal ventilation.
The other problem area is the fins located on the outside of the condenser. These can easily become bent or damaged, preventing the system from dispersing heat and cooling the liquid refrigerant. The fins are extremely sensitive and repairs should only be made by a licensed technician.
Evaporator
As the depressurize liquid refrigerant enters the inside unit it will pass through the evaporator where it is converted back into a gas called the working fluid, or refrigerant. The working fluid pulls heat from the air in your home and returns it to the compressor to be dispersed outside. The process forms a cyclical pattern helping to maintain the temperature inside your home.
Air Handler / Blower Unit
Chances are you have noticed that your home is equipped with two types of vents. One which is located near your HVAC system is the intake vent, which feeds the air handler. This portion of the system is constantly working to pull out the excess heat and pass through the evaporator.
Once the air is cooled, it is pushed through the blower unit so that it can be passed through the home’s duct system and provide cooled air to every corner of the house. When working together your home’s temperature will rarely fluctuate.
One of the most important maintenance items that homeowners can easily do themselves related to the air handler, is to regularly replace the air filter. Proper airflow is needed and over time dirt, dust, debris, pet hair, and more can clog your filter.
Pro-Tip: Match your air conditioning system’s air filter to your lifestyle. There are dozens of options to choose from including those specifically designed for homes with pets, etc.
Thermostat
Thermostats, though smaller, play a vital role in the transfer of air through your Waxahachie air conditioning system. We could spend an entire article, and we did, on the subject. In short, the thermostat monitors and manages the temperature inside your home. These can be as simple as a slider that dictates the temperature or as complex as your smartphone.
When selecting a thermostat it is important to check the compatibility with your system. Rather than going through the process only to be frustrated when it doesn’t work, simply reach out to your trusted AC technician and ask for suggestions. Not only will they be able to point you in the right direction, but they will also know what has worked best for other homes in the area.
Air Conditioning Repair Waxahachie, TX
With warmer temperatures stretching out for more than six months of the year, having a properly working air conditioning system is mission-critical for any Texas home. Most manufacturers require regularly scheduled maintenance to maintain the factory warranty, but even if your system is older, it is always a good idea to have a technician check it out once a year. Take the time to do maintenance during cooler months to save an emergency call when temperatures skyrocket and technicians are stretched thin.
Whether you are looking for general maintenance or are in need of emergency AC service, the Dial1 Johnson team is only a short call away. With offices across Ellis County and the greater Dallas area, our team of professional technicians can have your home up and running before you break a sweat. To learn more about Dial1’s services, or to schedule an appointment visit our website.
Author Bio:
Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is now owned and operated by Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock, with his grandson, Daniel Johnson, a third-generation plumber who is also the Service Manager.