Central air conditioning
The system that cools and dehumidifies your home, made up of an outdoor condenser, an indoor evaporator coil, a blower and a duct network.
Typical lifespan12–18 years
How it works
Refrigerant absorbs heat from indoor air at the evaporator coil, carries it outside, and releases it at the condenser. The blower pushes the cooled air through your ducts. Removing humidity is a side effect of that process, which is why a working system also makes a house feel less muggy.
Keeping it healthy
- Replace the air filter every 1–3 months
- Keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves, grass and debris
- Have a professional tune-up once a year, ideally in spring
- Check the condensate drain line yearly for clogs
Warning signs
- Running much longer than it used to for the same comfort
- Warm air from the vents
- Water or ice around the indoor unit
- Rising electricity bills without a rate change
- Loud or new noises when it starts
Common problems
What it costs
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