Most Basic Components of an Air Conditioning System
Posted on: 21 November 2016
A lot of homeowners across Australia rely on air conditioning units to keep their homes cool during the hot months of the year. To ensure these cooling systems run at peak efficiency post-installation, preventative maintenance is required. Though the typical homeowner does not require full knowledge of air conditioners, getting themselves acquainted with the most basic components of these HVAC appliances can help troubleshoot for potential problems. Here is a breakdown of some air conditioner components every homeowner should be familiar with.
Compressor: It is the heart of the system. It compresses low-pressure, low-temperature gas to a high-pressure, high temperature gas. It then pumps the working fluid (refrigerant) between the evaporator coil and the condenser coil. All this occurs in a cyclical manner. Without the pumping action of the compressor, refrigerant would not be able to reach where it is needed, be it in the condenser or evaporator coils.
Condenser coil: It is a network of tubing typically made of copper and is found in the outdoor unit of the air conditioner. It is fitted with a fan that helps cool the high-pressure, high temperature gas, subsequently allowing heat to escape outside and converting the refrigerant gas back into liquid form.
Evaporator coil: It is a network of metal tubes containing refrigerant that absorbs heat from the air. This coil is found in the indoor unit of the air conditioning system. As the refrigerant in the evaporator coil draws heat from the air, it evaporates from liquid state to gaseous state. That explains why the coil is referred to as an 'evaporator' coil.
Refrigerant: It is the all-important working fluid that makes the whole system tick. The fluid can easily convert from a liquid to gaseous state. This fluid is moved between the condenser and evaporator coils by the compressor.
Air filters: Maintaining good indoor air quality is very important because it impacts air conditioner operation and the health of those living in a house. Air filters catch dust, dirt, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne pollutants that may be circulated throughout the home by the air conditioning system.
Ductwork: The ductwork helps deliver conditioned air throughout a house via the air supply vents. It also helps draw unconditioned air out of the home via the air return vents. Air conditioning ductwork should be properly sealed and well-insulated to prevent inefficiencies in the operation of the entire system.
Expansion valve: Often located in-between the evaporator and condenser coils is an expansion valve. This valve regulates the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator coil.
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