A central air conditioning system consists of several key parts that work together to cool your home efficiently. Below is a detailed list of the main components along with their functions:
1. Outdoor Unit (Condenser Unit) Components
These components are located outside your home and help release heat from the refrigerant.
✅ Compressor – Pumps and compresses the refrigerant gas, increasing its pressure and temperature.
✅ Condenser Coil – Releases heat from the refrigerant into the outdoor air.
✅ Condenser Fan & Motor – Blows air over the condenser coil to dissipate heat.
✅ Refrigerant Lines – Copper or aluminum tubes that carry refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor units.
✅ Contactor – An electrical switch that turns the compressor and fan on or off.
✅ Capacitor – Provides the initial jolt of energy to start the compressor and fan motors.
✅ Reversing Valve (in heat pumps only) – Allows the system to switch between cooling and heating modes.
2. Indoor Unit (Evaporator Unit) Components
These parts are usually located inside your home, either in a closet, attic, or basement.
✅ Evaporator Coil – Absorbs heat from the indoor air and transfers it to the refrigerant.
✅ Blower Motor & Fan – Circulates air through the ducts and over the evaporator coil.
✅ Air Filter – Traps dust, dirt, and allergens to improve air quality and protect the system.
✅ Drain Pan & Drain Line – Collects and drains condensation from the evaporator coil.
✅ Expansion Valve (TXV or Capillary Tube) – Controls the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator coil.
3. Thermostat & Control System
These components control the air conditioner’s operation.
✅ Thermostat – Detects the room temperature and signals the system to turn on or off.
✅ Control Board (PCB or Circuit Board) – Acts as the “brain” of the system, managing different operations.
✅ Relay & Transformer – Helps regulate power supply and distribute electrical signals.
4. Ductwork & Ventilation System
These parts distribute conditioned air throughout the home.
✅ Supply Ducts – Carry cooled air from the air handler to different rooms.
✅ Return Ducts – Bring warm air from the house back to the evaporator coil for cooling.
✅ Registers & Vents – Openings in the walls, floors, or ceilings that direct air into the rooms.
✅ Dampers – Control airflow in different sections of the duct system.
5. Refrigerant & Other Miscellaneous Components
✅ Refrigerant (Freon, R-410A, R-22, etc.) – The substance that absorbs and releases heat in the system.
✅ Filter Drier – Removes moisture and contaminants from the refrigerant.
✅ High & Low-Pressure Switches – Protect the system by shutting it down if pressure levels are too high or too low.
✅ Vibration Isolators – Reduce noise and vibration in the compressor.
