Air conditioning (AC) systems are essential for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures, especially during hot weather. To understand how these systems work, it’s crucial to know about their basic components and their functions. Today, we at LV Heating & Cooling would like to look at an overview of the fundamental parts of an AC unit and what they do.
Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil is located inside the indoor unit of the AC system. It is filled with a refrigerant, a substance that can change states from liquid to gas and back again. As warm air from the room passes over the evaporator coil, the refrigerant absorbs the heat and evaporates. This process cools the air, which is then blown back into the room, lowering the indoor temperature. The evaporator coil also dehumidifies the air as it cools, helping to maintain comfortable humidity levels.
AC Compressor
The compressor is often considered the heart of the AC system. Located in the outdoor unit, it pumps the refrigerant through the system. After the refrigerant absorbs heat from the indoor air and becomes a low-pressure gas, the compressor compresses it into a high-pressure, high-temperature gas. This process increases the refrigerant’s temperature significantly, preparing it for the next phase in the cooling cycle. The compressor’s role is vital because it ensures the refrigerant continuously circulates between the indoor and outdoor units.
Condenser Coil
The condenser coil is another crucial component located in the outdoor unit. As the high-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant gas flows into the condenser coil, it releases the absorbed heat to the outside air. This is facilitated by a fan that blows air over the condenser coil. As the refrigerant releases heat, it cools down and condenses back into a high-pressure liquid. The condenser coil’s primary function is to expel the heat absorbed from the indoor air to the external environment.
Expansion Valve
The expansion valve, also known as the metering device, is located between the evaporator coil and the condenser coil. It controls the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator coil. As the high-pressure liquid refrigerant passes through the expansion valve, it experiences a sudden drop in pressure, which causes it to expand and cool down. This low-pressure, cool liquid refrigerant then enters the evaporator coil to start the cooling process again. The expansion valve is essential for maintaining the correct pressure and temperature of the refrigerant as it enters the evaporator.
AC Fan & Blower
AC systems have at least two fans: one in the indoor unit and one in the outdoor unit. The indoor fan, also known as the blower, draws warm air from the room, passes it over the evaporator coil, and blows the cooled air back into the room. The outdoor fan helps dissipate heat from the condenser coil by blowing outdoor air over it. These fans are critical for ensuring proper air circulation and heat exchange within the AC system.
Thermostat
The thermostat is the control center of the AC system. It allows users to set their desired temperature and regulates the system’s operation to maintain that temperature. When the indoor temperature rises above the set point, the thermostat signals the AC unit to start the cooling cycle. Once the desired temperature is reached, it signals the system to shut off, ensuring energy efficiency and consistent indoor comfort.
Central Air Conditioning Inspections, Tune Ups, Repair, Replacement & More in Summerlin, North LV, Henderson, Enterprise, Paradise, Spring Valley, Sunrise Manor & Greater Las Vegas, NV
Understanding the basic parts of an AC unit and their functions helps in appreciating how these systems work to keep indoor environments cool and comfortable. Each component, from the evaporator coil to the thermostat, plays a vital role in the refrigeration cycle, which involves absorbing heat from indoor air and expelling it outside. Regular maintenance of these components ensures efficient operation, prolongs the lifespan of the AC unit, and enhances overall indoor comfort. When you need AC services in the Greater Las Vegas, NV area, call LV Heating & Cooling.
