Californian homeowners rely heavily on their HVAC units. They may use the heating and cooling component for hours depending on the weather outside. You can appreciate the need for professional care and maintenance better by learning about different components in an HVAC system.

Thermostat

The thermostat dictates how and when your HVAC system will provide hot or cold air. Multiple thermostats can make a house more temperature efficient by setting different temperatures in different parts of the house. Programmable thermostats can be set with different temperatures for different times of the day.

Condensing Unit

The condenser is responsible for releasing heat during summer months. It comprises of a compressor, condenser coil, fan, and multiple controls. The condenser coil removes warm air during the summer and releases it outside. The compressor pumps compressed refrigerant liquid into the coil. The fan on top of the condenser cools the refrigerant from hot gas to its liquid form.

Heat Pump

Heat pumps don’t rely on fossil fuels. They remove heat by creating cooler air in the summer while moving warmer air inside during the winters. This is why they are considered environmentally friendly.

Furnace

A furnace is usually located in the basement or attic and helps in providing heated air to keep the home warm. A thermostat is directly linked to the furnace allowing immediate response to any temperature changes. You can choose between four types of furnaces – natural gas furnace, modulating furnace, electrical furnaces, and oil or propane furnace.

Heat Exchanger

There is a heat exchanger in every furnace that absorbs the heat generated and transfers it to other parts of the house via ducts. These components are made of temperature-resistant alloys to prevent any cracks from developing. You should have the HVAC maintenance contractors check the heat exchanger for signs of damage at least once every year for cracks.

Blower Motor

Blower motor is responsible for powering a fan that pushes warm air into the ducts and vents. Basic blowers tend to operate at a single speed, while variable speed blowers allow for better control on air distribution. You can save on energy by installing more efficient blower motors.

Combustion Chamber

Natural gas, propane gas, and oil is mixed with oxygen in the combustion chamber to start the fire which heats air in a furnace. This is also known as the burner. Combustion chamber may either use a pilot light or glow stick to ignite the mixture. There is a second combustion chamber present in the more high-efficiency furnaces to capture any unburned fuel or carbon monoxide.

Evaporator Coil

Evaporator coils are helpful in reducing humidity. It is located inside of the air handler and works by removing warm air. Warm air is blown over the coil by a fan to cool it, which is then distributed throughout the house. This process also causes condensation which helps in lowering humidity levels. Pertaining to this, this condensation can also cause a build-up of dirt, dust, and mold on the coil leading to problems with heat transfer.

Refrigerant Lines

Refrigerant lines are made of copper and attached to the condenser unit. The bigger insulated line is called the suction line and carries the refrigerant. The smaller line is uninsulated and carries warm liquid. You should call an HVAC professional immediately if you notice any leaks or cracks.

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