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Common Residential AC Parts & Repairs: Complete Guide

What Every Homeowner Should Know About Their Air Conditioning System

When your AC stops working, it’s usually not random — it’s often a worn-out or failing part. At Quality Comfort Air Conditioning and Heating Inc., we believe in educating homeowners so you understand what’s happening and why.

Below is a guide to the most common AC parts, what they do, and how we fix them — written in plain English, not tech jargon.


πŸ”§ Common AC Parts & What They Do

Capacitors

Help motors start and run efficiently.


❌ Problem: Humming sound, AC won’t start.


πŸ’‘ Fix: Replace the capacitor.

Contactors

Send power to the outdoor fan and compressor.


❌ Problem: Clicking noise, system doesn’t engage.


πŸ’‘ Fix: Replace the contactor.

Thermostats

Control the system and set your temperature.


❌ Problem: AC not responding, incorrect temps.


πŸ’‘ Fix: Replace thermostat (upgrade to smart if desired).

Refrigerant (Freon)

Cools the air circulating through your home.


❌ Problem: System blows warm air, uneven cooling.


πŸ’‘ Fix: Find and repair the leak, recharge the system.

Evaporator Coil

Absorbs heat from your indoor air.


❌ Problem: Coil freezes or gets dirty.


πŸ’‘ Fix: Thaw, clean, or replace the coil.

Condenser Coil

Located in the outdoor unit, releases heat from your home.


❌ Problem: Overheating, weak cooling.


πŸ’‘ Fix: Clean or repair the coil.

Blower Motor

Pushes air through your ductwork and vents.


❌ Problem: Weak airflow, strange noises, no air.


πŸ’‘ Fix: Replace or rebuild the motor.

Outdoor Fan Motor

Cools the outdoor coil and maintains system pressure.


❌ Problem: Fan not spinning or running loudly.


πŸ’‘ Fix: Replace fan motor.

Drain Line & Float Switch

Removes condensation and prevents overflow.


❌ Problem: Water around the unit or system shuts off.


πŸ’‘ Fix: Clear the drain line, test or replace the float switch.

Air Filters

Trap dust and debris before it reaches your system.


❌ Problem: Reduced airflow, frozen coils, dirty air.


πŸ’‘ Fix: Replace the filter regularly or ask about filter delivery.

Control Boards & Transformers

Manage power flow and communication between parts.


❌ Problem: System unresponsive, no power to components.


πŸ’‘ Fix: Replace the damaged board or transformer.

UV Lights & Air Cleaners

Help reduce mold, bacteria, and allergens.


πŸ’‘ Upgrade: Install whole-home air quality products for cleaner, healthier air.


πŸ“‹ Complete List of Common Residential AC Parts

Here’s a comprehensive list of air conditioning components we repair, replace, or inspect. Many parts work together, and when one fails, it can affect the entire system.

A–Z of Residential AC Parts & What They Do

Air Filter – Captures dust, dander, and particles before they enter the system.


Blower Assembly – Includes motor and fan that push air through your ductwork.


Capacitor – Stores and delivers power to motors.


Circuit Board (Control Board) – Directs electrical signals and timing for all functions.


Compressor – Pumps refrigerant through your system, like the AC’s heart.


Condensate Drain Line – Removes moisture collected during cooling.


Condenser Coil – Outdoor coil that releases heat.


Condenser Fan Motor – Cools the condenser coil with airflow.


Contactors – Relay switches that control high-voltage power to motors and compressors.


Defrost Control Board (for heat pumps) – Prevents ice buildup on coils during heating.


Ductwork – Delivers air throughout your home.


Evaporator Coil – Indoor coil that absorbs heat.


Expansion Valve / TXV – Controls refrigerant flow into the evaporator.


Fan Blade – Spins to move air across coils.


Float Switch / Safety Switch – Detects water buildup and shuts down the system.


Fuses – Protect components from power surges.


Heat Strips – Provide backup electric heat.


High-Pressure / Low-Pressure Switches – Prevent damage from extreme refrigerant pressure.


Line Set – Copper tubing that connects indoor and outdoor units.


Liquid Line Filter Drier – Filters out moisture and contaminants in the refrigerant.


Plenum – Air distribution box connected to ductwork.


Refrigerant – Chemical used to transfer heat.


Reversing Valve (in heat pumps) – Switches system from cooling to heating.


Sensor / Thermistor – Monitors temperature.


Service Valves – Allow techs to connect gauges to the refrigerant system.


Smart Thermostat – Programmable, Wi-Fi-enabled temperature control.


Surge Protector – Prevents electrical damage from voltage spikes.


Thermostat Wire – Low-voltage wiring between the system and the thermostat.


Transformer – Converts high voltage to low voltage for controls.


UV Light (UVC Germicidal Lamp) – Kills bacteria and mold inside the system.


Zone Dampers / Control System – Directs airflow to specific areas or rooms.


🧠 Before You Call: Quick Troubleshooting Checklist

βœ… Thermostat set to COOL and working


βœ… Breaker not tripped


βœ… Filter is clean


βœ… No ice buildup on coil


βœ… The drain line is clear


βœ… No strange sounds or smells

Still having issues? That’s when you call the pros.


🧰 Common Scenarios We Fix Every Day

  • AC turns on but blows warm air
  • System won’t start — just hums or clicks
  • Weak airflow from some or all vents
  • Water is leaking from the air handler
  • The system turns on and off rapidly (short cycling)
  • Loud buzzing or squealing sounds
  • The thermostat is not responding or displaying the wrong temperature
  • Frozen indoor coil
  • High electric bills with no change in usage

πŸ”— Related Services


πŸ™‹ Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most common AC part to fail?

Capacitors and contactors — especially in Florida’s hot, humid climate.

Why does my AC freeze up?

Usually due to airflow problems, dirty filters, or low refrigerant.

Is it bad to keep adding refrigerant?

Yes. If it’s low, there’s a leak. We’ll find it and give you honest options.

Do you service mobile and manufactured homes?

Absolutely. We handle all types of residential systems.


πŸ“² Need help now? Call Quality Comfort at 321-242-2513


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