As your home’s air conditioner ages, you may need to replace or repair certain system parts. The breakdown covers several of the most common parts that may require care and estimate how often they need to be renewed or fixed. Keep in mind that these are just estimates – the actual lifespan of your AC components may vary depending on use, weather conditions, and other factors.
Parts You Might Need to Replace or Repair
- The air filter: The air filter is one of the essential parts of your AC system, and it should be replaced or cleaned regularly (usually about once a month). A dirty air filter can cause many problems, including decreased airflow and reduced efficiency.
- The evaporator coil: The evaporator coil is responsible for absorbing heat from the indoor air. It is placed inside the air handler (the indoor unit) and is made of thin metal fins surrounded by copper or aluminum tubing. Over time, the fins may become bent or damaged, impeding airflow and reducing efficiency. In most cases, the entire coil will need to be replaced if it becomes damaged.
- The condenser coil: The condenser coil is responsible for releasing heat outdoors. It is located inside the outdoor unit and is made up of thin metal fins that are surrounded by copper or aluminum tubing. Over time, the fins may become bent or damaged, impeding airflow and reducing efficiency. In most cases, the entire coil will need to be replaced if it becomes damaged.
- The compressor: The compressor is one of the most expensive components of your air conditioning system and is in charge of circulating the refrigerant throughout the system. It is located inside the outdoor unit and typically lasts about 15 years. You’ll probably have to replace the complete AC system if it breaks.
- The refrigerant: Refrigerant is a heat-transferring fluid that helps cool your home by absorbing heat from indoor air and releasing it outdoors. Over time, it may leak out of the system, which can reduce efficiency and cause damage to other components. If the system leaks, you will typically need to hire a professional to recharge it with refrigerant.
- The thermostat: The temperature in your home is controlled by the thermostat. It is located inside the air handler (the indoor unit) and typically lasts about ten years. If it fails, you will likely need to replace it.
- The ductwork: This is responsible for delivering conditioned air throughout your home. It comprises a network of metal or plastic pipes connected to the air handler (the indoor unit). Over time, the ductwork may develop leaks, which can reduce efficiency and cause the system to work harder than it should. Most of the time, you will need to hire a professional to seal the ductwork leaks.
- The air handler: The indoor component of your AC system is called the air handler. It houses the evaporator coil and contains the blower fan that circulates conditioned air throughout your home. The air handler typically has a lifespan of about 15 years. You’ll probably need to replace the complete AC system if it malfunctions.
- The outdoor unit: The outdoor unit is the portion of your AC system located outside your home. It contains the condenser coil and compressor and helps remove heat from your home. The outdoor unit typically has a lifespan of about 15 years. You’ll generally need to replace the complete AC system if it quits.
- The ductless mini-split system: A ductless mini-split system is a type of AC system that does not require ductwork. It consists of an indoor unit (air handler) and one or more outdoor units (condensing units). Compared to a conventional AC system, a ductless mini-split system is simpler to install and potentially more energy-efficient. The disadvantage is that maintenance could be more expensive if something goes wrong.
Keep in mind that these estimates of the actual lifespan of your AC components may vary depending on use, weather conditions, and other factors. If you have any concerns about the condition of your AC system, be sure to contact a professional for help.
Why is it crucial to become familiar with the components of your AC system?
Familiarizing yourself with the different parts of your AC system can help you better understand how the system works and identify potential problems. Additionally, knowing when parts of your AC system need to be replaced or repaired can help keep your system in excellent operating condition and avoid expensive repairs down the road. Click here for any heat pump repair in Phoenix you might need.
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Conclusion
Your AC system comprises many parts, each of which plays a vital role in cooling your home. Over time, some of these parts may need to be replaced or repaired. By familiarizing yourself with the different parts of your AC system and how often they need to be replaced or repaired, you can help ensure that your system will continue to work correctly for years.