Modern air conditioner units are complex and have dozens of individual systems and components. If your AC is acting up, it can be difficult to determine what, exactly, the issue is. To that end, the team at Parker Heating & Air is here to discuss which parts of an AC unit are most likely to break. 

Contact Parker Heating & Air, your reliable AC repair company in Parker, CO.

Which AC Parts Are Most Likely to Break?

Air conditioners have dozens of components, but some parts are more prone to failure than others. Below are some of the most common repair issues our team encounters in Parker, CO. If you suspect that one of your system’s components is damaged, make sure to call an expert to fix it as soon as possible. 

Air Filters

Air filters are located in your main air handler and remove particles like dust, dirt, pollen, and pet dander from the air. Filters get clogged over time, and clogged filters can restrict airflow, putting unnecessary strain on your system. Also, clogged filters collect moisture, which creates a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and other biological growth. 

Fortunately, changing your air filter is a simple task you can do on your own at home. For best results, you should replace your air filter at least once every year or once every six months if you live somewhere with poor air quality. 

Motors

Individual AC components have motors that run them, most obviously the blower fan and compressor. These motors can break, which can cause all kinds of systemic issues. Broken fan motors can significantly reduce or even completely eliminate airflow. If the compressor motor is damaged, your system won’t be able to produce cold air or might start to overcycle. 

Compressors

The compressor is arguably the core component of your AC system and is responsible for circulating coolant fluid. You can think of the compressor as your air conditioner’s heart that pumps coolant through the circulatory system. Compressors have several moving mechanisms, so they are one of the parts of an AC unit most likely to break. 

When the compressor is broken, your AC won’t be able to create cold air and might not even turn on. Malfunctioning compressors can also draw too much electricity and cause your circuit breaker to trip. Overcycling is a common sign your compressor is broken. 

Thermostats

If the compressor is your air conditioner’s heart, then the thermostat is like the brain that controls the entire system and tells it when to turn on and off. Programmable thermostats automatically sense indoor temperatures and adjust performance to maintain a consistent temperature. If your AC is not responding to thermostat changes, there might be a problem with the temperature sensor or a problem with its electrical connection. 

Capacitors

AC capacitors store the electrical energy that runs your system’s components. Given that your system continually uses electricity, capacitors can pick up a lot of wear and tear. Overloaded capacitors can damage wiring and cause internal components to short out. Technicians should inspect and test your capacitors as part of routine maintenance appointments. 

Coils

Coils play a critical role in heat extraction and are the main components in your air conditioner that produce cold air. Coils can corrode and rust from moisture and dust, which can also damage the individual fins. When your coils are broken, energy efficiency can drastically suffer, causing your energy bills to skyrocket even though AC usage is the same. Broken coils can also freeze over and create water leaks out of the base of your unit. 

Ducts

Air ducts carry air from your HVAC system through your home. AC ducts are usually made from metals like steel and aluminum, so they are susceptible to rust and corrosion. Corrosion can cause holes and leaks to form, which can impact your system’s airflow and energy efficiency. Experts estimate that leaks in your ducts are responsible for up to 25% of your system’s energy loss, so patching those holes can go a long way toward reducing your energy bills. 

HVAC & Plumbing Repair in Parker, CO

Parker Heating & Air has been serving the community for over 20 years with high-quality services and affordable prices. If you would like to schedule AC maintenance service or have any more questions about the parts of an AC unit, contact us online or give us a call today at 720-307-6845 to speak to one of our knowledgeable technicians!