During the summer months, your air conditioning system can struggle to cool your home. So, does this mean you need to replace your air conditioning system? Or, does it simply need a repair or new part?
Understanding the parts and processes of your air conditioning unit can help you make the best decisions when it comes to your home’s comfort.
Keep reading to learn the answer to the question; how does home air conditioning work?
Parts of the AC System
Before you can understand how air is cooled, it’s important to understand the parts that make up an air conditioning system. A typical cooling system is a two-part or split system that includes the following parts:
- A unit located outdoors that contains a condenser coil, compressor, various electrical components, and a fan
- An evaporator coil, usually located on the top of the gas furnace inside your home
- A series of pipes called refrigeration lines that connect the inside and outside equipment together
- A chemical compound called refrigerant that will circulate through the indoor and outdoor units
- Ducts that help to bring air into the various spaces inside your home
- A thermostat or control system that will allow you to set and maintain a desired temperature
How Air Conditioning Works
Air conditioning systems operate by taking advantage of a physical law that says when a liquid converts into a gas, it absorbs heat. Air conditioners work by evaporating and condensing a chemical compound called “refrigerant” in an endless cycle to help keep your home cool.
By using electricity, the refrigerant flows through the closed system of refrigeration lines connecting the indoor and outdoor units. The warm indoor air is pulled in through the ducts by a fan. Then, the compressor works to condense and circulate the refrigerant through the outdoor unit, changing it from a gas to a liquid.
Then, this liquid is forced through the indoor evaporator coil or cooling compartment where the indoor unit’s fan circulates the inside air to pass across the evaporator. This turns the liquid into a vapor, removing the heat from the air to turn it into cold air.
To keep cooling efficiently, the air conditioning system converts the refrigerant gas back to a liquid using the compressor. The process starts over again in an endless cycle to maintain the temperature of the home.
Benefits of Air Conditioners
Air conditioners provide several benefits besides just keeping your home cool and comfortable during hot weather.
One of the main benefits air conditioners provide is that it helps to clean the air in your home. Air conditioners draw the hot air out of your home, which then goes through an air filter that can help remove airborne particles and several air pollutants.
Another benefit is that as you invest in higher efficiency HVAC equipment, you have greater control over dehumidification. As air passes across the evaporator coil in your AC unit, it produces condensation from the air and drains into a condensation drain. This then lowers the humidity in the home.
By having a basic understanding of your air conditioner, it can help you to properly maintain your air conditioning system and know when you need to call an HVAC service technician for assistance.
Wondering How Home Air Conditioning Works? Reach Out to Supreme Today!
If your air conditioner is beyond repair and needs a replacement, or if you need help with maintenance, our experienced HVAC technicians are here to help!
Ready to stay cool and enjoy Supreme comfort all year long? Contact the Supreme Plumbing, Heating and Cooling team today!
