How Does Air Conditioning Work?
Air conditioning systems do much more than just blow cool or warm air into your space. So, how does air conditioning work? To find out, let’s delve into the thermodynamics of refrigerants, the roles of various components and how these elements work together to create a comfortable indoor environment.
How Do Air Conditioning Thermodynamics Work?
Air conditioning is far more complex than blowing cool or warm air. For it to function properly, it relies on several key air conditioning components that enable effective heat transfer. So, let’s get into the intricate air conditioning thermodynamics.
What Are the Primary Air Conditioning Components?
There are typically 10 to 20 air conditioning components that work together to bring you the perfect environment.
The 10 most important and common elements are:
1. Air Handler: The air handler circulates and conditions indoor air based on your thermostat settings, ensuring the air temperature in your home matches your preferences.
2. Blower: The blower motor pushes conditioned air from the heating or cooling system through the ductwork and into your home’s rooms, distributing it through the vents.
3. Compressor: The compressor compresses refrigerant vapour, enabling the transfer of heat from the refrigerant to the condenser for heat expulsion.
4. Condenser Coil: The condenser coil releases heat absorbed by the refrigerant from inside the home into the outdoor air, facilitating heat transfer away from the indoor space.
5. Expansion Valve: The expansion valve reduces refrigerant pressure, allowing it to expand from a liquid to a vapour in the evaporator. This process cools the refrigerant before it absorbs heat indoors.
6. Evaporator Coil: The evaporator coil absorbs heat and moisture from indoor air, working with the condenser coil to cool the air and complete the heat exchange process.
7. Fan: The fan in the indoor air handler circulates air through the system, returning warm air to the condenser to be cooled and then redistributing the cooled air through the ducts and vents.
8. Filter: The filter captures dust, pet dander and other airborne contaminants, protecting the air conditioning unit and ensuring cleaner air circulation.
9. Refrigerant: Refrigerant is a chemical that cycles between liquid and gas states, absorbing and transferring heat to enable cooling and heating in air conditioning and heat pump systems.
10. Thermostat: The thermostat regulates the HVAC system by turning the compressor and fan on or off based on indoor temperature readings, maintaining the desired temperature.
How Do Refrigerants Work?
As soon as you turn on your AC system, the refrigeration process starts. The compressor is responsible for its circulation, which stops when you turn off your AC. So, how do refrigerants work?
1. Compression
The refrigerant starts as a low-pressure, superheated gas and enters the compressor. The compressor increases its pressure and temperature, transforming it into a high-pressure, high-temperature gas.
2. Condensation
The high-pressure gas flows to the condenser, where it releases heat to the surrounding air and condenses into a high-pressure liquid. This process is facilitated by a fan that blows away the heat.
3. Expansion
The high-pressure liquid refrigerant then passes through the expansion valve. Here, its pressure drops, causing the temperature to decrease and the refrigerant to transform into a low-pressure, cold liquid.
4. Evaporation
The cold, low-pressure liquid refrigerant moves into the evaporator coil. It absorbs heat from the indoor air, causing it to evaporate into a low-pressure gas. This process cools the air, which is then circulated back into the room by the system’s fan.
5. Cycle Repeats
The low-pressure gas returns to the compressor, and the cycle starts again.
How Do Air Conditioning Temperature Settings and Airflow Work Together?
Contrary to common belief, indoor air is not directly cooled or heated by setting the thermostat. Instead, the system removes heat from the building and expels it outside. Thus, creating the perfect air conditioning temperature.
For example, the fan blows indoor air over the evaporator coil, where the refrigerant absorbs the heat. The compressor then adjusts this to your desired temperature, which is circulated back into your space through the ducts.
How Is Air Conditioning Energy Efficiency Rated?
Air conditioning energy efficiency rating is determined by how much electricity is needed to use it. For example, every AC unit is supplied with an EER (energy efficiency rating) and BTU (British thermal unit) value, and potentially an SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) value.
BTU: British thermal units measure the cooling capacity of an air conditioning unit, indicating how much heat energy it can remove from the air. BTUs are used to convert cooling power into watts, reflecting the unit’s effectiveness in cooling.
EER: The energy efficiency rating compares a unit’s cooling capacity to its power consumption in watts. It measures how effectively the unit removes heat relative to its energy use. An EER rating of 12 or higher indicates lower CO2 emissions, better performance and potential savings on energy bills.
SEER: The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) assesses air conditioning efficiency over an entire cooling season, accounting for varying weather conditions and usage patterns. Unlike the EER, which measures efficiency at a specific condition, SEER provides a broader view of energy efficiency throughout the year.
Energy Efficient Air Conditioners at D-Mec Services
So, how does air conditioning work as a whole? AC units maintain indoor comfort by transferring heat from inside a building to the outside, or vice versa for cooling. Key components work together to manage this heat exchange through the refrigerant cycle. In addition, units made with high-quality materials tend to be more energy-efficient and perform better.
If your current AC unit is starting to make strange noises or isn’t performing as usual, it’s time to upgrade. We provide a range of popular brands and air conditioners suitable for commercial use.
For installation, repairs, maintenance or advice across Bedfordshire and the surrounding areas, get in touch with D-Mec Services today.