About The Author: Travis Baugh is a Digital Brand Marketing Manager for Bryant, where he creates clear, helpful content to guide homeowners through heating, cooling, and indoor air quality decisions. His goal is to empower readers with the knowledge they need to choose the right comfort solutions for their home—confidently and comfortably.
Your Guide to Finding and Maintaining AC Parts
Finding the right AC parts is essential for keeping your air conditioning system running at peak performance. Your local Bryant dealer has you covered with a full range of replacement parts, upgrades, and maintenance products to ensure your system operates efficiently.
This guide will explore the different types of air conditioning parts, help you identify when a part is failing, and provide tips for finding the exact component you need.
What are the Main Types of AC Parts?
Understanding the function of each AC part is the first step toward effective maintenance and troubleshooting. Key components work together to cool your home, and knowing their roles helps you identify potential issues before they become major problems.
- Compressor: Often called the heart of the air conditioning system, the compressor circulates AC refrigerant and compresses it into a high-pressure gas, which is a critical step in the cooling cycle.
- Condenser: Located in the outdoor unit, the condenser releases heat from the refrigerant, transforming it from a gas back into a liquid.
- Evaporator Coil: This indoor coil absorbs heat from your home's air and transfers it to the refrigerant, cooling the air that is then circulated through your home.
- Fan Motor: The fan motor is responsible for blowing air across the evaporator and condenser coils, which is essential for heat exchange and air circulation.
- Thermostat: The thermostat acts as the control center, allowing you to set and maintain your desired indoor temperature for optimal comfort and energy efficiency..
How Do I Know if an AC Part is Faulty?
- Unusual Noises: Squealing, grinding, or banging sounds often signal a mechanical issue with a part like the fan motor or compressor.
- Insufficient Cooling: If your AC unit struggles to cool your home, it could be due to a faulty compressor, a refrigerant leak, or a dirty condenser coil.
- Frequent Cycling: An air conditioner that turns on and off more than usual may have a malfunctioning thermostat or an issue with its fan motor.
- Increased Energy Bills: A sudden, unexplained spike in your energy consumption can point to a failing AC part that is forcing the system to work harder
Mike Lea, co-owner of Lea Heating & Air Conditioning in East Dundee, Illinois, outlines common problems homeowners may encounter with AC parts and equipment.
“The most common issues are dirty condenser coils, dirty air filters, failing electronic components such as AC capacitors and contactors, and clogged condensate AC drain lines,” Lea said.
If you suspect any faulty central air conditioner parts or experience any issues, it's recommended to consult a professional HVAC technician for accurate diagnosis and repair.
Where Can I Find the Right AC Parts?
Using the correct air conditioner parts is crucial for a reliable repair. To ensure quality, performance, and a perfect fit, always choose Factory Authorized Parts.
Why Use Factory Authorized Parts?
Factory Authorized Parts are designed and built specifically for your Bryant equipment. Using these genuine components restores your system to its original performance and preserves the manufacturer's warranty.
How to Get Factory Authorized Parts
The best way to get the right parts is by working with a Bryant Factory Authorized Dealer. These certified experts carry a stock of genuine parts and have the knowledge to ensure you receive the exact component needed for your system.
AC Maintenance To Preserve AC Parts
Proactive AC maintenance is the key to extending the life of your air conditioning parts and preventing costly breakdowns. Regular upkeep keeps components clean, reduces wear, and ensures your system operates efficiently.
- Air Filter Replacement: Clogged filters restrict airflow and strain your system. Replace your air filter every 1-3 months. Learn more about air filter replacement.
- Clear Debris From Outdoor Unit: Keep the area around your outdoor condenser unit clear of leaves, grass, and dirt to ensure proper airflow and prevent overheating.
- Cleaning The Coils: The evaporator and condenser coils can accumulate dust over time, which hinders heat transfer. Gently clean them with a soft brush or vacuum. Learn more about how to clean AC coils and how to clean air conditioners.
Your Local Bryant Dealer For AC Parts
While regular maintenance can help prevent air conditioner parts issues, there are still instances when you will need AC parts. In those situations, it is advisable to contact your local Bryant dealer for professional air conditioning service. They have the expertise and tools to diagnose and fix complex AC part problems.
FAQs on AC Parts
Key parts of an AC unit include the compressor, condenser coil, evaporator coil, expansion valve, blower fan, and thermostat, all working together to cool and circulate air.
The compressor is typically the most expensive part to replace, often costing $1,200 to $2,500 or more due to its central role and labor-intensive installation.
Learn More About Air Conditioners
- Learn how does air conditioning work
- Explore AC installation and AC replacement
- Understand AC tune ups
- Get help with an AC not working or AC not blowing cold air
- Find out how long do AC units last?
