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Breaking Down the Main Parts of an HVAC System

It’s always good for homeowners to have a basic understanding of the different systems that keep their homes safe and comfortable. As a long-time Orlando HVAC contractor, we at Gembecki know that an informed homeowner is our best ally in maintaining the various systems in their homes in good condition. Below is a brief description of the different parts of a typical HVAC system.

Furnace

The job of the furnace is to push treated air outward and through the ducts that run throughout the entire house. The air passes through vents into a room where it raises or lowers the ambient temperature.

Heat Exchanger

Inside every furnace is a heat exchanger. When the furnace is triggered by the thermostat, air is sucked into the heat exchanger either from outdoors or from another duct that draws cold air from the rooms of your house. This cold air is heated in the heat exchanger then pushed through the ducts for dispersal.

Evaporator Coils

The evaporator coils are also part of the furnace, but serve quite the opposite function of heat exchangers. They are activated when cool air is needed in the house. Evaporator coils are not housed inside the furnace, but attached to it on the top or side, usually contained in a small metal enclosure. They are attached to the system’s condenser unit, which is typically located outside the house.

Condenser

The condensing unit contains the refrigerant that is converted from gas to liquid to gas again so it can cool air effectively. With each change, heat is released, which cools the air that is then distributed through the ducts and vents.

Refrigerant Lines

These are the metal tubes that convey the condensed liquid to the evaporator coils and carry the gas back to the condenser. They are typically made of aluminum or copper and are designed to withstand extreme temperatures.

Ducts

Treated air passes through these pathways, which go all over the house. They are usually put in the ceiling, and vents are cut out from them to allow air to pass into a room.

Vents

These direct the treated air flowing through the ducts into a room. Vents have metal frames and slats that can be angled to channel the air to different parts of the room.

Thermostat

The thermostat is connected directly to the furnace. It senses the temperature of a room and signals either the heat exchanger or the condensing unit to activate, depending on whether cool air or hot air is needed to reach the set temperature in a room.

For a wide range of reliable HVAC repair and maintenance services, call us. We have the experience and expertise when it comes to central Florida air conditioning and heating systems. As one of the most trusted HVAC companies in Orlando, you can count on us for prompt and professional service no matter what type of AC repair you require.

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