How Does Air Conditioning Work?
Air conditioning is a process used to create and maintain the ideal temperature in an indoor environment. Many people mistakenly think that air conditioning works by simply producing cold air. However, this is not entirely accurate.
In this guide, we’ll explain how air conditioning works and what each component of an air conditioning system does.
How Does Air Conditioning Work?
Air conditioning units function by removing warm air from inside your home and pumping it outdoors, while cool air is released back into the room, lowering the temperature. When a liquid turns into a gas, it absorbs heat, which is the fundamental principle behind how air conditioners work.
Air conditioning systems are quite similar to your standard refrigerator, in that heat is absorbed within the system and then removed from the room.
Here’s the process:
- Warm air from the room is drawn into the system.
- This air passes over the cold evaporator coils, which cools the air while a dehumidifier removes excess moisture.
- Meanwhile, the refrigerant flowing through the coils absorbs heat from the air and evaporates, turning from a cold liquid into a warm gas.
- This warm air is then pumped outside, while the refrigerant moves through a condenser unit, where it turns back into a cool liquid.
- The cool air is then circulated back into the room, where it mixes with the existing air to reduce both the temperature and humidity.
Inside the unit, various components control the state, pressure, and temperature of the refrigerant, enabling the unit to effectively cool the room.
What Do the Separate Air Conditioning Components Do?
We know that air conditioning units rely on a coolant liquid that is circulated through coils to cool the air. For the system to work effectively, three key components are needed within the refrigerant circuit.
- The Air Conditioning Evaporator
The warm air from inside your home is drawn into the system and passed through an expansion valve that regulates the flow. It is then blown over the cold coils, which absorb the heat from the air. As the refrigerant inside the coils absorbs the heat, it changes back into a gas and moves toward the compressor. - The Air Conditioning Compressor
The compressor in the air conditioning system functions as a pump, reducing the volume of the gas and raising its pressure and temperature for the condensing process. - The Air Conditioning Condenser
The condenser removes the heat that the refrigerant has collected from inside the room (now in vapor form) and releases it outside, where the outside air absorbs the heat and turns the refrigerant back into a liquid.
Once the heat has been expelled outdoors, the cold refrigerant returns indoors to the evaporator to repeat the process.
Do Air Conditioners Only Cool the Air?
A common misconception is that air conditioners only lower the air temperature. While this is their primary function, they do much more than that. Air conditioning systems offer several health benefits too.
The Health Benefits of Air Conditioning
Air conditioners are equipped with filters that help remove particles and allergens—such as pollen and dust—preventing them from circulating through the air, helping to clean the air you breathe indoors. Additionally, they function as dehumidifiers, drawing moisture from the air and reducing humidity levels.
When the temperature rises, the risk of heat stroke increases. With air conditioning in place, the risk of heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses is significantly reduced.
Surprisingly, air conditioning can also reduce the risk of dehydration. By lowering the room temperature, you’ll sweat less, which means you’re losing less water from your body. While staying hydrated is important, air conditioning can help minimize the risk of dehydration.
During the night, regulated temperatures allow for better sleep. A cooler bedroom ensures a more comfortable sleep, helping you rest better and feel more refreshed the next day.
The cleaner air provided by an air conditioning system also reduces the likelihood of asthma attacks in those who suffer from the condition. However, it’s important to maintain the system by changing the filter when necessary to further reduce risks.
Other Benefits
Here are additional ways air conditioning can be beneficial:
- With air conditioning, you won’t need to leave windows or doors open, which enhances the security of your home. Without open windows or doors, it’s harder for unauthorized individuals to enter.
- The filters in your air conditioning system also help reduce the presence of insects and bugs. They can prevent fleas from spreading on your pets’ fur, helping to maintain a cleaner home.
- Noise pollution from outside is often a concern, especially if you live near busy roads. With an air conditioning system, you can reduce that noise, as the compressor and fan are located outside. The system itself is also quieter to run.
How Does Air Conditioning Work in the Home?
If you’re considering upgrading your home’s technology while also improving the air quality, preventing common health issues, and enhancing home security, an air conditioning system could be a great choice.
For more details, reach out to Advanced Plumbing and Heating on 01246 551 537 or via our website.
