If you’ve never done too much research about how an air conditioner works, this question might be one of your first. How would an outdoor unit help to cool the air inside of the home? And isn’t it counterproductive to place the unit outdoors, in the heat? We want to help answer your questions about the outdoor unit—known as the condenser unit—here. But please do not hesitate to give us a call with any other questions you have.
The Condenser Unit
The outside portion of your air conditioner contains a number of parts that work together with the inside portion of your air conditioner (yes, there is another unit inside of the home—and it’s not just a fan and a thermostat!). These are some of the most important of the components you’ll find in the outdoor unit:
- Condenser Coil
- Compressor
- Refrigerant line (which goes indoors as well)
- Fan and fan motor
Of course there are some other electrical components and mechanical/structural parts, but basic operation depends on these major components.
Refrigerant absorbs heat from the inside of your home as it evaporates (at the indoor evaporator coil). Then it transfers this heat outdoors. That’s why the unit is located outside. The only way to cool down the air is to remove the heat, and you need an outdoor location to transfer the heat.
The compressor is responsible for pressurizing refrigerant, allowing it to continue throughout the system, inside and outside.
The condenser coil is where refrigerant condenses—turns into a liquid—with the help of the outdoor fan. As it turns to a liquid, the high-pressure refrigerant is able to transfer heat to the surrounding air so that it can move back indoors to get more heat.
Some things to note about the outdoor unit:
- It’s important to keep debris away from the unit.
- The condenser coil can get dirty quickly, and you may need a professional to clean it so heat can dissipate efficiently.
- Regular maintenance helps everything to run smoothly for longer.
Give AC Designs Inc. a call for more information and for AC services in Arlington, FL. We will deliver above your expectations!