The HVAC system is made up of many different components. If you are a homeowner, your AC condenser unit is likely the last thing on your mind. That is until it stops working. It is possible that you have never heard of an AC condenser unit. It is an essential component of your home’s HVAC unit. Therefore, refreshing your knowledge about the system can be beneficial in the future.
What Is an AC Condenser Unit?
The AC Condenser Unit is the part of your HVAC system that is placed outside. As you might remember from ninth-grade science, condensation is the process by which vapor or gas is converted to a liquid. This unit uses that process to release heat into or out of the home.
Parts of the Condenser Unit
The Condenser Coil: This part of the condenser unit is one of the most critical parts of this system. If the coils break, the system will not work correctly. Condenser coils are responsible for converting refrigerant from a gas into a liquid.
The Compressor: The compressor is the part of the condenser unit that spreads the refrigerant to other parts of the unit.
The Fan: Using its circular motion, the fan is helpful in continuing the cycle. The fan ensures that air constantly circulates through the unit and energy is transferred efficiently.
The Condenser Cabinet: The condenser cabinet holds all components of the unit in one specific space.
How Does the AC Condenser Unit Cool the Home?
The AC condenser unit is filled with refrigerant gas, a chemical that traps and moves heat throughout an air conditioner system. The condenser is made of a group of coils that are on a continuous cycle. In this cycle, the fan inside the unit blows across the coils, allowing any heat from the refrigerant to melt away and convert back to a liquid form. This is repeated over and over again to create cool air for the inside of your home.
What Does an AC Condenser Unit Do?
Although it is only one part of a multiple-piece system, an AC condenser unit plays a massive role in the heating and cooling of your home. If the condenser breaks, there will be a noticeable difference in the comfort of your home. Here are some of the reasons why the condenser is an essential component of an HVAC system:
They Improve Comfort
In the hot Texas summers, a broken condenser can cause the air conditioner to blow warm air instead of cool air. Unless the system has been turned off, a broken condenser will continuously try to cool a house that will never cool down. If left unchecked for too long, you might be in for a surprise on your next electric bill.
In addition, a broken condenser will likely increase in noise. No one wants the sound of a struggling fan at the side of their house all day and night.
Reasonable Utility Costs
When your condenser or any part of the HVAC system is not working correctly, it will show on your electric bill. When your system is being forced to work harder to keep the home at a comfortable temperature, the bills can be outrageous. A fully functioning AC condenser unit will keep utility costs at bay.
How To Spot Issues With Your AC Condenser Unit
Loud Noises
A warning sign that there is an issue with your AC condenser is that there are loud noises coming from it. Rattling or loud buzzing is not something that you want to hear when you turn on the air conditioner. These sounds can indicate that your system is close to failing, and you need to get in touch with your local HVAC technician in Austin, TX, as soon as possible.
Warm Air From Your Air Conditioner
If you turn on your air conditioner hoping to get some relief from the heat, but instead, it blows more hot air on you, that is a condenser issue. Warm air coming from your air conditioner can mean that there is a problem with the coils or the refrigerant. This can also be a sign of a broken fan, dirty condenser oil, or a blockage in the airflow. If this becomes a recurring problem, it would be in your best interest to contact a professional.
Leaking
Leaks from the condenser unit can be a sign of underlying issues. While they can be difficult to spot, a leak in the system is often accompanied by other problems. If there is a leak in the condenser, there is a risk of losing the refrigerant that flows through the system. The refrigerant is the reason for your cool air, and if it begins to drip out, you should call an HVAC technician immediately.
Old HVAC System
All of the above issues can arise when your HVAC system is outdated. After a while, your system will no longer be able to run at maximum efficiency. It is common for homeowners to see and experience issues with their HVAC system after it has run its course.
You may notice visual signs such as rusting and leaking. Perhaps you will hear buzzing or rattling sounds coming from the unit. You may also notice that it takes a while for the house to cool down when you turn on the air conditioner or that you have to turn it on and off multiple times for it to work correctly. These are all signs that your system is ready for an upgrade.
Install a New AC Condenser Unit in Austin, TX.
At Schneider Mechanical, we are dedicated to providing our customers with the best products and services. With over 10 years of experience serving the members of Austin, TX, we are confident in our ability to give you the best results. Our team of professionals is here to help with all of your AC condenser unit needs. Contact us today for more information on AC condenser units.
