Air Conditioners 101 — AC Basics

Air Conditioners 101 — AC Basics

Many homeowners don’t really know much about their cooling systems. It’s only when something goes wrong that people suddenly have to become experts on air conditioner components and functions, learn what cooling acronyms mean and try to troubleshoot problems. Instead of waiting until something goes wrong, take some time to learn the AC basics so you’re prepared when speaking to an HVAC technician.

Air conditioners are complex machines, but the process to keep your home cooled is fairly simple—evaporation. Understanding how an AC works can provide a foundation to discuss any problems or concerns.

• Read how Air Conditioners work
• Air Conditioner parts defined

It can be overwhelming to hear terms like SEER, evaporator coil or expansion valve being discussed if you have no background in the heating or cooling field. However, understanding what different terms mean and how they relate to efficiency and comfort can go a long way to understanding the AC basics.

• Air conditioner SEER ratings explained
• Difference between EnerGuide and ENERGY STAR labels
• 4 HVAC ratings every homeowner needs to know

It’s important to call for professional AC service for AC repairs and to schedule yearly tune-ups to ensure system efficiency and safety. However, it can be helpful to know the common AC problems and tips to keep the system running smoothly the whole year.

• Air conditioner running on low refrigerant
• AC blowing hot air
• Check and clean the AC condensate drain
• Reminder: Change air filters

It’s important to have a basic understanding of an air conditioner, so when the time comes for yearly service, emergency repair or whole-unit replacement, homeowners feels comfortable discussing their cooling system with a licensed technician.

If you ever have any questions about your AC, don’t hesitate to contact us, we’re always happy to answer any of your questions.

Remember, an annual AC inspection is one of the best ways to keep your cooling system operating safely and efficiently. If you haven’t had your AC inspected this year,
schedule yours today.

Martino HVAC serves the GTA and Durham, Halton, Peel, York and Quinte & Kawartha regions. We provide reliable heating and cooling installation, repair and service.

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