An expanding information page for:   Air Conditioning  

A. Central
        Central Air conditioning systems operate by circulating refrigerant through an indoor coil (the evaporator coil) which absorbs heat and moisture from the air. The refrigerant flows outside to the condenser coil where heat is released. This is often called the "refrigeration cycle". The compressor is the refrigerant pump and the two copper pipes handle the refrigerant flow. A "Heat Pump" is simply the same system in reverse. For new installations (whether pad mounted or roof mounted) it is important that the size of the unit matches the amount of cooling (or load) needed for the area, and the locations of the system equipment will maximize your energy usage. Most often your central A/C system and your heating system will use the same furnace unit and ductwork.

Maintaining Central Air Conditioners & Heat Pumps
        Since air conditioners and heat pumps work on the same basic principles, most of their maintenance and repair needs are the same. Even when it's not in use, the outdoor portion of a central air conditioner or heat pump has to endure the weather all year long. To keep it in good working condition, clean the condenser fins and coils before the start of each cooling season or whenever they get dirty or clogged. If you use your air conditioner more than a few months every year, or if you use a heat pump for both heating and cooling, inspect the filter often to keep dirt and debris from putting an unnecessary strain on equipment.

B.  A Thru-Wall or Window Unit A/C
        A Thru-Wall or Window Unit A/C uses the same operating system in a single enclosure. The same rules apply for size and location. It is important that the window or wall penetration be weather tight to eliminate insects, water damages and energy loss. This system is usually the lowest cost for equipment and installation. Please see http://www.ablegroup.net/HVAC.html for unit sizes and specs.

Maintaining a Room Air Conditioner
        Room air conditioners do not need a lot of maintenance, but it's important to clean the air filter frequently to reduce the strain on the motor caused by dirt buildup. Also, you should check the fins and clear the drains on the unit each season. Clean the filter once a month during cooling season. Switch off power and unplug unit, then remove retaining clips or screws and lift off front access cover. Take out filter and inspect it and if it's damaged, put in a replacement. You can reuse most filters by washing them with mild detergent; check the label on the filter for directions. Lay the filter on a towel and pat it dry, then let it dry completely before reinstalling it.

C. Split System
        A Split System A/C uses the same operating system as the above. This system is usually installed where difficult locations and conditions exist. The indoor unit can be placed almost anywhere and same applies to the outdoor unit. These systems still have the two refrigerant lines and wiring between them. This system is usually the highest cost for equipment and installation. The same rules apply for size, location and heat pump availability.

Wall Thermostats
        There are only a few parts in thermostats and they rarely need repair or replacement. Wires can still come loose sometimes, contacts can corrode, and dust can interfere with operation. You should check your thermostat at least once a year to make sure it's working right. Most of them are either low-voltage, line-voltage, or electronic. A simple low-voltage thermostat switches a heating or cooling system on and off. An electronic thermostat uses the same connections as a low-voltage thermostat to control a heating system or other component, like an air conditioner of humidifier. A line-voltage thermostat is linked to an electric heater and uses the same current as the heater.

Low Voltage	Electronic	Line Voltage

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