Finding your air conditioning unit tucked away in the attic can be a bit confusing, especially when trying to describe it to a technician or when researching solutions for problems. The terminology can vary, but generally, the AC unit located in your attic is referred to as an attic air handler or sometimes an attic air conditioner. However, it's crucial to understand that this isn't the entire system; it's only part of it. Let's break down the components and terminology.
What are the parts of an attic air conditioning system?
A typical central air conditioning system, even if the air handler is in the attic, consists of two primary components:
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The outdoor unit (condenser): This is the large metal box usually located outside your home. It houses the compressor, condenser coils, and fan. This part of the system releases heat outside.
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The indoor unit (air handler/evaporator coil/blower): This is the component that's often in the attic. It circulates cooled air throughout your home. It includes the evaporator coil, which absorbs heat from the air, and a blower fan that distributes the cooled air through your ductwork. Sometimes the evaporator coil is located within the air handler, but in some systems, it may be a separate component.
Is it just an air handler or an air conditioner?
The term "air conditioner" is often used broadly to refer to the entire system. However, the unit in the attic is more precisely called an air handler. It handles the air, blowing it through the ductwork, but it doesn't contain the actual refrigeration components that cool the air. Those are located in the outdoor condenser unit.
Therefore, while you might hear someone refer to the attic unit as an "attic air conditioner," technically it's the air handler that's in the attic, working in conjunction with the outdoor condenser unit to create a complete air conditioning system.
What if my attic unit also has the evaporator coil?
In many cases, the evaporator coil is integrated into the air handler unit located in the attic. This is a common configuration. In such situations, it would still be referred to as an attic air handler even though it also includes the evaporator coil. The key distinction remains that it’s not the complete air conditioning system on its own; it relies on the outdoor unit to actually cool the air.
What are some common problems with attic AC units?
Problems with attic air conditioning units can range from simple fixes to more significant repairs. Some common issues include:
- Frozen evaporator coil: This often indicates a refrigerant problem or a clogged air filter.
- Insufficient airflow: This could be due to a dirty air filter, restricted ductwork, or a faulty blower motor.
- Refrigerant leaks: These require professional attention.
- Electrical issues: Problems with wiring or the circuit breaker can affect the unit's operation.
How can I find information about my specific attic AC unit?
To get specific information about your attic AC unit, locate the unit's model and serial number. This information is usually found on a metal plate attached to the unit itself. Once you have these numbers, you can easily find the manufacturer’s specifications and maintenance information online.
Remember, dealing with your air conditioning system can be complex. If you're experiencing problems, it's always best to contact a qualified HVAC technician for diagnosis and repair. They can accurately identify the problem and recommend the appropriate solution.
