AC 101: How Does Your Air Conditioning Work?
Homeowners who want to extend the lifespan of their air conditioner need to understand how this appliance works. Then they can detect any issues on time and avoid costly repairs. Let’s begin!
The components of central AC units
Typical air conditioners (also called central air ACs) consist of the following components:
A thermostat controlling the system’s operation
An external unit with a compressor, condenser coil, and fan
An internal unit (a fan coil or furnace) that holds a fan and evaporator coil to distribute cool air
Copper tubing to enable the refrigerant to circulate between outdoor and indoor units
An expansion valve that determines the amount of refrigerant entering the evaporator coil
The ductwork that distributes air from the internal unit to living areas
If all parts are in good condition, the air conditioner creates two processes that coincide.
How air conditioning functions
The first process takes place inside the house and involves blowing warm air across a coil filled with refrigerant to lower its temperature. The refrigerant absorbs the heat from the indoor air and turns it into gas. Finally, cooler air circulates back inside the house.
The other process involves compressing the refrigerant gas before it enters a coil in the internal unit. The refrigerant turns liquid again, releasing heat outside. Also, a fan pulls outdoor air with the external coil to reject heat coming from your house.
These actions produce a continuous cycle, extracting humidity and heat from indoor air and returning cold air to the house.
What are the main types of air conditioning?
Residential AC systems are available in all sorts of configurations and styles to meet homeowners’ needs. Here are the most common models:
Split-system ACs
Split system air conditioners have several configurations, such as single-stage, two-stage, and multi-stage systems. They generally offer consistent temperature control and usually come with air handler filters to purify indoor air.
Packaged ACs
Packaged air conditioners feature a blower fan, condensing coil, evaporator coil, and compressor in a single unit. They’re an excellent choice for smaller areas, like closets and attics. High-efficiency models also include multi-speed blower fans to create better airflow.
Ductless AC
Ductless systems aren’t classified as central air conditioning because they provide cooling to targeted areas in the house. The installation is less invasive, as they don’t use ductwork to deliver cool air. These ACs also offer zoning by providing temperature control in each room. They include one or more indoor units, an external unit, and copper refrigerant tubes.
Get the best cooling system for your home
All three systems can dramatically increase the comfort of your home, but only if correctly mounted. To ensure high-quality installation, reach out to a dependable and licensed AC contractor.
CMB Air is residential heating and cooling installation, service, and repair and company with 15+ years of experience serving Tampa and surrounding areas. If you need a new air conditioner, repair, maintenance or some other service, we can help! Call 813-461-6243 today!
