Air conditioner components

The purpose of an air conditioner is to remove heat from your home, leaving you cool and comfortable even on the hottest summer afternoons. While modern AC systems are complex, understanding the main parts can help you make informed decisions about maintenance and repairs.

At Roth Home, we’ve been helping Portland homeowners with their cooling systems since 1976. Here’s our expert guide to the seven most important components that work together to keep your home cool.

Air Conditioner Parts & Functions

1. Blower Motor: The Air Circulator

Your blower motor ensures proper air movement throughout your home. It pulls warm air through return vents, pushes it across the cold evaporator coil, and distributes cooled air through your ductwork. Without this crucial component, you’d have cold air stuck in one place.

2. Evaporator Coil: The Heat Absorber

Inside your home, the evaporator coil works like a heat magnet. As warm air passes over this cold coil, it pulls heat and humidity from your home’s air. This process is why you feel that pleasant, cool air flowing from your vents.

3. Compressor: The Powerhouse

Think of the compressor as the heart of your AC system. Located in your outdoor unit, it pressurizes refrigerant gas, preparing it to absorb heat from your home. When your compressor works efficiently, your whole system runs smoothly.

4. Condensing Coil: The Heat Releaser

Working with the compressor outside, the condensing coil releases captured heat into the outdoor air. It’s like a radiator in reverse, helping your refrigerant cool down and prepare for another cooling cycle.

5. Fan The Heat Disperser

The outdoor fan helps your system release heat effectively. It pulls air across the condensing coil and compressor, preventing overheating and ensuring efficient operation.

6. Air Filter: The System Protector

While simple, your air filter plays a vital role. It catches dust and debris before they can damage sensitive components or reduce efficiency. A clean filter also helps maintain healthy indoor air quality.

7. Thermostat: The Control Center

Modern thermostats are the brains of your cooling system. They monitor temperatures, control operation cycles, and help you manage energy use. Smart thermostats can even learn your schedule and adjust automatically for optimal comfort and efficiency.

Speak to an Air Conditioning Expert

For more information about air conditioning in Portland, reach out to Roth Home—serving homeowners since 1976! Our team of experienced air conditioning repair, installation, and maintenance technicians will walk you through the process. No matter the issue, our team is ready to help.