Understanding the basic mechanics of any system can help you determine any short comings it is experiencing along with knowing how to keep it maintained and in optimal condition. No matter what you are exploring, learning the basics is beneficial. Part of the HVAC system is the central air conditioning system, the network of components that is responsible for keeping the home cool. At this time, NY NJ A/C Connection would like to take the opportunity to give you the basic rundown of how the central air conditioning system operates.
Parts of a Central Air Conditioner & Their Functions
When it comes to the central air conditioning system, there are a few main components that include; the condensing unit (outdoor unit), the air handler/ furnace with coil (indoor unit), the series of air ducts, and the thermostat. You can typically find the indoor unit in an out-of-the-way location like the attic or basement. The indoor unit pumps the cooled air within the air ducts to disperse the treated air throughout the home. One or multiple thermostats are the control panel so to speak that dictates the power, temperatures, and other settings. The central air conditioning removes the heat from the air with refrigerant powering with electricity. As soon as the thermostat signals the central air conditioning to cool down the temperatures, a series of events is set into action.
Purpose of Air Filters in Your Home
The beginning starts with the air-handler drawing in the air from the room throughout the household using the return-air ducts. As the air circulates in the air ducts it passes through the air filters. The filters contain the majority of the airborne allergens, contaminates, and particulates in the air, depending on the filter’s design and features in an effort to increase the indoor air quality. In fact, the more sophisticated filters have the ability to retain more of the microscopic pollutants in air. Once the air has been cooled by the condenser unit, it is re-circulated back into the home through the air-supply ducts and is dispersed in the various rooms.
Refrigerant for AC Units
The refrigerant ultimately is what cools the air, and it is found in the evaporator coils. Working together to cool the air are 3 primary components; Compressor, Condenser, and Evaporator. In split system found frequently in homes, the condenser and compressor are within the same unit that is located outside. The air handler unit houses the evaporator. Package systems contain all 3 of the primary components in the outdoor unit, located on the ground or on the roof. The indoor unit is connected by the evaporator coils to produce the cooling effect of the central air conditioning where the outdoor compressor and condenser coil connect. The copper tubing that runs between the components is circulating the refrigerant. The refrigerant receives and releases heat as it raises and lowers in temperature as it changes from a liquid to a gas and then back to a liquid. The refrigerant is exceptionally cold as the refrigerant circulates through the indoor coils. As the air handler pushes warm air across the coil, the refrigerant absorbs so much heat from the air that it transforms into vapor form. The refrigerant in vapor form jettisons the heat as it travels to the compressor that pressurizes it to in order to manage it through the outdoor coils. The heat is dissipated with the assistance of the fan. Returning to the indoor coil, the refrigerant passes through an expansion device which converts it to a liquid that is low-pressure and low temperature. The cycle continues as long as thermostat indicates cool temperatures.
AC Troubleshooting, Diagnosis & Repairs in Manhattan, NYC
If you are experiencing some problems keeping your home cool, there is likely something within the central air system not operating accordingly. To make the needed repairs, contact NY NJ A/C Connection and let our experts run diagnostics to find then issue and get it resolved quickly and efficiently.
