If you’re like most homeowners, you think of your air conditioner and furnace as independent pieces of equipment. The truth is that these main HVAC components and many others are all part of one integrated comfort system that’s in place to regulate temperature, humidity and air quality in your home. Here are some of the key system components and how they work together:

Thermostat

Your thermostat is control-central for all the heating and cooling functions of the HVAC system. Using built-in sensors, the thermostat monitors the indoor temperature and sends a signal for your A/C, heat pump or furnace to cycle on and off based on your selected temperature settings.

Duct System

If you have a forced-air system, it relies on a hidden network of ducts to circulate air throughout your home. Supply ducts deliver conditioned air, while return ducts transport stale air back to the HVAC equipment for reconditioning. Problems with the ductwork like leaks, disconnections or improper sealing and insulating can negatively impact your comfort and the HVAC system’s energy efficiency.

Air Handler

The HVAC system’s air handler unit contains some key components including the evaporator coil that pulls out heat and humidity and cools the air, the heat exchanger and fuel burner for the furnace, the blower fan that pushes air through the system, as well as the air filter that captures debris particles. Problems within the air handler unit can adversely affect the entire HVAC system. A dirt buildup on the filter or evaporator coil can lead to airflow restrictions, poor temperature and humidity control, a decline in efficiency and reliability. Corrosion or cracks in the heat exchanger can let fumes containing deadly carbon monoxide into your home’s air supply.

Outdoor Unit

The outdoor unit contains two vital cooling system components; the compressor that pumps refrigerant and the condenser coil that releases the heat captured indoors. If problems arise with either of these components, the system’s cooling efficiency declines, as does your comfort.

To learn more about how all the different HVAC components in your Peachtree City home work together, contact us at Powers Heating & Air.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Peachtree City, Georgia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 770-487-2040.

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