Parts of an HVAC System: Electric Furnace (or Air Handler) with Heat Pump

Parts of an HVAC System: Electric Furnace (or Air Handler) with Heat Pump Components Explained

When HVAC system parts break down at home it can be stressful, especially without repair knowledge.

In this blog post, I'll simplify how the components of HVAC systems work by explaining the parts of the latest in heating and cooling technology: an electric furnace (or air handler) paired with a heat pump. This can be thought of as comparable to an electric car and is the best solution when electricity is the only utility to the home.

The goal in this is not necessarily that you'll be able to fix the issues with HVAC components on your own (though more power to you if that ends up being the case) but more to just lessen the anxiety a little by shining a light on how these systems work and give you a little more confidence in being able to confidently talk to HVAC contractors and make a good decision on how to respond when your system isn't working as expected. You can also use this article as a handy way to identify HVAC system components on your own!

1. Supply Duct

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• Description: Carries warm or cool air from your HVAC system into your home.

• What Happens if It Fails: Damaged, dirty or leaking ducts will result in uneven temperatures, increased energy costs and poor air quality.

• Routine Maintenance: Inspect for leaks, dirt, or damage and ensure ducts are sealed and insulated.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$$

2. Plenum

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• Description: An air distribution box that connects the furnace or air handler to the ductwork.

• What Happens if It Fails: A cracked or leaking plenum reduces airflow, causing inefficiency.

• Routine Maintenance: Regularly check for air leaks and ensure proper insulation.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$

3. Heat Kit

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• Description: The heat kit, also known as an electric heat strip, provides supplemental heating when the air handler operates as a heat source.

• What Happens if It Fails: A malfunctioning heat kit can lead to a lack of heating, causing discomfort in cold weather, or, if it overheats, it may trip safety limits and shut down the system.

• Routine Maintenance: Clean regularly to prevent dust buildup and inspect electrical connections for wear or corrosion.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$$

4. Sequencer

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• Description: The sequencer controls the activation sequence of the electric heating elements in an electric furnace, allowing them to turn on in stages to avoid power surges.

• What Happens if It Fails: A faulty sequencer can cause the heating elements to turn on all at once, potentially tripping the breaker, or prevent them from activating at all, resulting in no heat.

• Routine Maintenance: Inspect for signs of wear, corrosion, or burnt contacts during maintenance.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$

5. Evaporator Coil

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• Description: Absorbs heat from indoor air during the cooling process.

• What Happens if It Fails: Reduced cooling capacity and possible refrigerant leaks.

• Routine Maintenance: Clean the coil annually to prevent buildup of dirt and debris that can affect performance.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$$$

6. Expansion Valve

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• Description: Regulates the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator coil, reducing its pressure and temperature for effective cooling.

• What Happens if It Fails: Refrigerant flow may be interrupted, leading to poor cooling, fluctuating temperatures, and possible damage to other system components.

• Routine Maintenance: Inspect for refrigerant leaks and ensure the valve is clean and free of debris during regular maintenance.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$

7. Condensate Drain

• Description: Removes moisture generated during the cooling process.

• What Happens if It Fails: Clogged drain can lead to water damage and mold.

• Routine Maintenance: Clean the condensate drain line at least once a year to prevent blockages.

• Relative Repair Cost: $

8. Return Duct

• Description: Draws air from your home back into the HVAC system.

• What Happens if It Fails: Reduced airflow and inconsistent temperatures.

• Routine Maintenance: Inspect for any blockages or damage and ensure proper sealing.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$$

9. Limit Switch

• Description: Prevents the furnace from overheating by shutting it down if temperatures rise too high.

• What Happens if It Fails: Overheating or unexpected furnace shutdowns.

• Routine Maintenance: Ensure the air filter is clean to avoid airflow restrictions that can cause overheating.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$

10. Indoor Control Board

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• Description: Manages the operation of the HVAC system, ensuring components work in harmony.

• What Happens if It Fails: The furnace or AC may not respond to thermostat settings or may malfunction.

• Routine Maintenance: Have a professional inspect the control board during annual maintenance to ensure proper operation.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$$$

11. Blower

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• Description: Distributes heated or cooled air through the ducts into your home.

• What Happens if It Fails: No airflow, meaning no heating or cooling.

• Routine Maintenance: Lubricate blower components and clean out dust or debris that could obstruct airflow.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$$$

12. Blower Motor

• Description: Powers the blower to move air through the system.

• What Happens if It Fails: The blower won’t function, preventing air circulation.

• Routine Maintenance: Regularly check for signs of wear and have the motor lubricated as needed.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$$

13. Blower Capacitor

• Description: Helps the blower motor start and run efficiently.

• What Happens if It Fails: The blower motor won’t start, leading to no air circulation.

• Routine Maintenance: Check the capacitor during routine inspections to ensure it’s functioning properly.

• Relative Repair Cost: $

14. Filter

• Description: Removes dust and debris from the air before it circulates through your home.

• What Happens if It Fails: Reduced airflow, poor indoor air quality, and potential system strain.

• Routine Maintenance: Replace the filter every 1-3 months, depending on usage and filter type.

• Relative Repair Cost: $

15. Transformer

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• Description: Steps down high voltage for furnace and air conditioning components.

• What Happens if It Fails: The HVAC system won’t operate due to insufficient voltage.

• Routine Maintenance: Have a professional inspect the transformer during annual maintenance.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$

16. Condenser Fan

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• Description: Cools the refrigerant in the outdoor condenser unit.

• What Happens if It Fails: The AC won’t cool effectively as refrigerant won’t be cooled properly.

• Routine Maintenance: Clean the condenser fan blades regularly and remove any debris around the outdoor unit.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$$

17. Condenser Coil

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• Description: Releases heat from the refrigerant, allowing the cooling process to continue.

• What Happens if It Fails: Reduced cooling efficiency and potential system shutdown.

• Routine Maintenance: Clean the condenser coil annually to remove dirt and debris that can impede heat exchange.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$$$

18. Control Board (AC)

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• Description: Manages the air conditioning system’s components.

• What Happens if It Fails: The AC unit won’t respond to thermostat commands.

• Routine Maintenance: Ensure the control board is functioning properly during annual AC maintenance.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$$$

19. Compressor

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• Description: Circulates refrigerant between the evaporator and condenser coils.

• What Happens if It Fails: The AC won’t cool the air, and the entire system may need to be replaced.

• Routine Maintenance: Check refrigerant levels and clean debris from around the outdoor unit to prevent overloading the compressor.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$$$$

20. Pressure Switch (AC)

• Description: Ensures safe refrigerant pressure levels during AC operation.

• What Happens if It Fails: The system may shut down to prevent damage from incorrect refrigerant levels.

• Routine Maintenance: Check refrigerant levels during maintenance to ensure the pressure switch works properly.

• Relative Repair Cost: $

21. Capacitor (AC)

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• Description: Helps start the compressor and condenser fan motors.

• What Happens if It Fails: The AC unit won’t start or run efficiently.

• Routine Maintenance: Test the capacitor during annual AC maintenance to ensure it’s functioning.

• Relative Repair Cost: $

22. Dryer

• Description: Removes moisture from the refrigerant, protecting the system.

• What Happens if It Fails: Moisture in the refrigerant can cause corrosion or freezing.

• Routine Maintenance: Replace the dryer if refrigerant levels need to be adjusted or serviced.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$

23. Whip

• Description: Flexible conduit that supplies electrical power to the outdoor condenser unit.

• What Happens if It Fails: The AC unit won’t receive power, preventing it from operating.

• Routine Maintenance: Ensure the whip is in good condition and free from cracks or damage during routine checks.

• Relative Repair Cost: $

24. Disconnect

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• Description: Allows power to be manually shut off to the outdoor AC unit.

• What Happens if It Fails: The AC may not operate safely if power cannot be properly disconnected for servicing.

• Routine Maintenance: Check the disconnect during routine AC inspections to ensure proper operation.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$

25. Thermostat

• Description: Controls the temperature in your home by communicating with the HVAC system.

• What Happens if It Fails: The HVAC system won’t respond to temperature adjustments, leading to discomfort.

• Routine Maintenance: Test the thermostat for accuracy and recalibrate if necessary during annual system checks.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$

26. Refrigerant Lines

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• Description: Carry refrigerant between the evaporator and condenser coils.

• What Happens if It Fails: Leaking refrigerant lines will reduce cooling efficiency and could lead to refrigerant loss.

• Routine Maintenance: Inspect for leaks and ensure proper insulation of the lines.

• Relative Repair Cost: $$$

Conclusion

By understanding HVAC unit components and performing routine maintenance, you can extend the life of your equipment and avoid costly repairs. From cleaning coils and filters to inspecting the control board and compressor, each component requires specific care to ensure it functions properly. Schraer Air Experts are here to help with all your HVAC maintenance needs, ensuring your system runs efficiently year-round.