Your air conditioning unit is like a marathon runner. It has demands to meet, no matter how rigorous the obstacles are. One of the worst things that can happen during the heat of summer is an AC breakdown.
How Do Air Conditioners Work?
The most common central cooling system is a split system, which includes an outdoor cabinet containing a condenser coil and compressor and an indoor evaporator coil, usually installed in conjunction with your furnace or air handler. The compressor pumps a chemical called refrigerant through the system.
Once warm air inside your home blows across the indoor evaporator coil, its heat energy transfers to the refrigerant inside the coil. That transfer, in turn, “cools” the air. The refrigerant is pumped back to the compressor, where the cycle begins again.
The heat absorbed by the refrigerant is moved outside your home while cooled air is blown inside. Moisture that contributes to humidity is also condensed out of the air. Your cooling system is usually combined with your central heating system because they share the same ductwork for distributing conditioned air throughout your home.
It’s not too late to give your air conditioner some preventative care. Cleaning around your system could help prevent higher electric bills and lower the chances of your system breaking down.
Why Isn’t My Air Conditioner Working?
- Your air conditioner might stop working if it’s overheating. When this happens, it will trip a circuit breaker in your home. If the circuit trips more than once, call an electrician ASAP.
- Your system is getting close to retirement. Age takes a toll on all of us, including your equipment that works around the clock to ensure you’re always comfortable. Typically, units will last between 10 and 15 years, so if your system is reaching its peak, it’s time to think about getting it replaced.
Get an HVAC technician in your home to ensure your air conditioning system will keep you comfortable all summer.
