Familiarizing yourself with the basic components of your HVAC system helps you identify problems easily and take better care of your system. Fortunately, that doesn’t have to be a daunting task, even if you’re not an HVAC expert. Here’s a quick guide to the basic HVAC parts.
Thermostat
Your thermostat controls when your HVAC system comes on. When you set it manually or program it in advance, the thermostat directs your HVAC system to maintain your home at your desired temperature. When the indoor temperature becomes too hot or too cool, it triggers the HVAC system to begin blowing cool or warm air as required.
Condensing Unit
This is the metal unit that’s installed outside your home. Refrigerant lines connect it to the evaporator coil inside your home. It’s responsible for releasing the heat absorbed from your home’s air to the outside air.
Furnace or Air Handler
The furnace or air handler is the indoor part of your HVAC system designed to cool or heat your home’s air. This fairly large HVAC component is typically located in your basement, attic, garage, or in a special closet.
Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil is located in a metal enclosure on top of or on the side of the furnace. The refrigerant flows through it and draws heat from your home’s air passing over the coil. The cool air is then allowed to move back into your living space.
Refrigerant Lines
These narrow aluminum or copper tubes carry the refrigerant between your condensing unit and the evaporator coil.
Ductwork
The network of ducts in your home transport air that’s been cooled or warmed by your HVAC system to different parts of the home. They may be manufactured from lightweight aluminum, flexible plastic, steel, fiberglass, or polyurethane.
Supply and Return Registers
These covers fit over your return and supply duct openings. They’re usually located on the floor, ceiling, or wall. You should take care not to block the registers with curtains, rugs, or furniture, as that interferes with airflow and your overall home comfort.
These HVAC parts work in tandem to keep you comfortable. For more information on HVAC parts, contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company. We’ve offered HVAC parts, products, and services to homeowners in the Yuma area for more than 70 years.
