Parts of An AC and Why it’s Important to Keep Clean

Many people think that an AC is one simple system, easy to install and even easier to maintain. However, there are actually four important parts within that system. When not kept clean and protected, your whole system may break down, causing you to spend a lot of money trying to repair or replace it. Becoming more knowledgeable in the “what” and the “why” of the AC world: what parts are in a system and why it’s critical to check it often, will ultimately help you in the future.

1. Filters

The most crucial part of a regular AC maintenance is checking and cleaning your filter. Your AC’s filter has an important job; and that is to make sure that dirt and other particles don’t get trapped within the other sections of the AC (like the coil). If your filter is clogged and filled to the brim with the particles that build up over time, air can bypass the filter, carrying dirt into the coils. This causes malfunctions within the coil itself, inhibiting the coil from doing its job properly (explained below). A filthy filter can significantly reduce a system’s efficiency. If you think that its time to get your filter cleaned or replaced, contact us today to schedule an appointment!

2. Coils

There are two types of coils within your AC system: the evaporator coil and the condenser coil. The evaporator coil’s job is to absorb heat from an enclosed space while simultaneously evaporating a refrigerant called Freon. The evaporator coil is inside the system.  The condenser coil is outside of your system, making it easy to spot. It does the opposite of the evaporator coil: it condenses refrigerant vapor into a liquid. Just as the filter needs to be cleaned yearly, so do these two coils. To keep these two parts of the AC clean, keeping a dirt-free filter and making sure the area around your AC is clear of debris.

3. Maintain Your Coil Fins

On every condenser and evaporator coil there are small, aluminum fins, helping the coils with their heat processes. These little guys aid their partners a lot, but because they are thin and made out of aluminum, they are easily bent. If bent at the right angle, these fins block the air flowing throughout your system, eventually causing problems that lead to major repairs and even replacement! Make sure to keep an eye on the aluminum coil fins because they can cause a hassle if not maintained.

4. Condensate Drains

When your evaporator coil is working properly, condensation tends to build along the insides of your system. This can directly lead to growth of mold and algae that blocks your condensate drains, which obviously isn’t very good for your AC. These drains are critical for controlling the amount of condensation inside the AC, and if blocked, it can lead to system failure. Buildup of mold and algae can even lead to water damage inside your home! Therefore, keeping your drains mold-free are very important in maintaining the AC that you own.

Call today to schedule your AC maintenance at (585) 3Harold

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