How Do Air Conditioners Work?

Understanding how your air conditioner works can help you spot potential issues early, handle basic troubleshooting, and make better maintenance decisions. For homeowners in Columbia, Lexington, Chapin, Irmo, and West Columbia, knowing how the system functions can also help prevent breakdowns during peak summer heat.

At Cassell Brothers Heating & Air, we believe an informed homeowner is a confident one. In this guide, we will walk through how home AC systems work, the key components involved, and which signs point to common air conditioner problems. While some issues can be handled with basic steps, others require professional expertise.

How Air Conditioning Systems Work

Air conditioners work by removing heat from inside your home and releasing it outside, leaving behind cooler, more comfortable air. This process relies on refrigerant, a special fluid that changes from liquid to gas and back again, absorbing and releasing heat along the way.

Most home AC systems are either split systems or ductless mini-splits. In a split system, the evaporator coil and air handler are located indoors, while the condenser and compressor are outdoors. Ductless systems follow a similar principle but do not require ductwork to distribute air.

In simple terms, the system draws warm indoor air through a return vent. The air passes over the evaporator coil, which cools it as the refrigerant absorbs the heat. The cool air is then sent back into your home through supply vents, while the refrigerant carries the absorbed heat to the outdoor unit for release.

Key Components of AC Systems

Each air conditioning system has several important parts working together to provide reliable cooling. Here are the major AC system components:

• Compressor: Located in the outdoor unit, it pressurizes the refrigerant and helps move it through the system.
• Condenser Coil: Also outdoors, it releases the heat absorbed indoors.
• Evaporator Coil: Found inside the home, it absorbs heat from the indoor air.
• Refrigerant: The chemical fluid that carries heat between the indoor and outdoor units.
• Blower Motor and Fan: Circulate air across the coils and throughout your home.
• Thermostat: Regulates temperature and tells the system when to turn on or off.

Knowing these parts makes it easier to understand basic air conditioner diagnostics and what might be causing cooling issues.

Different Types of AC Systems

Homeowners in the Columbia area often have one of the following system types:

• Split-System AC: The most common residential system. It uses ducts to distribute air and has separate indoor and outdoor units.
• Ductless AC System: Also known as mini-splits, these are ideal for homes without ductwork. They feature an outdoor unit and one or more wall-mounted indoor units.
• Packaged AC System: Combines all components into one unit, typically installed outdoors or on a rooftop. These are less common in residential use but found in some homes.

If you are wondering how ductless AC systems work, the main difference is that cooled air is delivered directly from the wall-mounted unit, allowing zone comfort without requiring ducts. These are often more energy efficient and flexible in installation.

Common AC Issues and Troubleshooting

Even well-maintained systems can experience problems over time. Here are some common air conditioner issues, along with notes on whether they can be addressed with basic AC troubleshooting or if a professional is needed.

• AC not cooling: Start by checking the thermostat settings and the air filter. If the filter is clogged, replace it. If this does not help, a refrigerant or compressor issue may be the cause and will require a technician.
• Unit not turning on: Make sure the thermostat is working, and the circuit breaker has not tripped. If everything checks out but the system still will not start, call for professional air conditioning repair.
• Weak airflow: This could be due to a dirty filter or blocked vents. After changing the filter and clearing the vents, if airflow is still poor, blower motor issues may be to blame.
• Ice on the unit: Usually a result of low airflow or refrigerant issues. Let the system thaw and replace the filter. If ice builds up again, it is time to schedule service.

Some issues can be prevented with regular attention. Simple AC maintenance tips like changing filters every one to three months and keeping the outdoor unit clear of debris can make a noticeable difference. Homeowners can also perform basic DIY AC maintenance tasks such as checking for unusual sounds or smells and monitoring performance changes.

Avoid attempting DIY air conditioner repair that involves electrical components, refrigerant, or sealed parts. These situations require certified technicians.

Even with good habits and seasonal checkups, some air conditioning problems need professional help. If your AC troubleshooting efforts do not solve the issue or the problem keeps returning, it is time to contact Cassell Brothers Heating & Air and find out if repair is viable or if AC replacement is needed.

Our team provides expert air conditioning repair and maintenance services throughout Columbia, Lexington, Chapin, Irmo, and West Columbia. We offer professional diagnostics, clear service recommendations, and a warranty on our AC services to give homeowners peace of mind.

Proactive care and timely repairs can extend the life of your AC system and help avoid emergency AC repairs during summer’s hottest days. With regular AC maintenance and prompt attention to small issues, your system will run more efficiently and keep your home comfortable all season long.

If you are unsure what is wrong with your AC or just want to learn more about how home systems work, our team is here to help. Schedule your appointment with Cassell and take the next step in protecting your comfort.