Heating & Air Conditioning: Twigging the Technology behind the Cool
We know what air conditioning units do – they help ensure that the temperature within your home is within comfortable conditions. During summer months, an AC unit can be man’s best friend. Unfortunately, very few people realize how complex the heat & air conditioning process is.
The Principle behind the AC Operation
AC units are designed to cool hot air. To perform this, there are several processes the hot air goes through within the AC. Phase conversion is a process wherein a liquid is converted into gas. During this process, warm air from the outside is sucked to be cooled in the AC. The cool air is then distributed throughout your house through the duct system.
The cooling of air within an AC is mostly done by refrigerants, a substance that can absorb heat really fast. The process is continuously in a closed system of coils. After cooling the air and separating the heat, the interior fans moves the warm air away from the cooled refrigerant coils to keep the cooled air at low temperature. Various types and models have their own methods of enabling such process, however, the same laws of thermodynamics apply.
The Parts that Do the Work
An AC is made up of many different components. One of these is the thermostat, a device monitors and regulates the air temperature within the equipment. It also has filters, which are in charge of taking airborne particulates out of the circulating air. Filters need to be cleaned and maintained on a regular basis to be able to dehumidify cool air before it’s blown into the house.
An AC also has moisture-collecting pans and drains, which are responsible for discharging the moisture produced by cooling humid air. Adding to these essential components are the electronic board and switches, which serve as control interface for users.
Taking Care of Your AC
Just like other types of equipment, AC units are susceptible to wear and tear. Over time, you might notice a decline in its efficiency. Once you detect any changes in the operational efficiency and condition of your unit, it’s time to use AC repair services from a professional AC technician in Plymouth, MN.
Use what you have learned about ACs so you will be able to explain better the details of your concern on the equipment. This way, you can prevent unnecessary expenses that may be charged in the event you and the AC expert don’t understand or agree on what actually needs to be done.
Sources:
Tips: Air Conditioners, Energy.gov
How Air Conditioners Work, HowStuffWorks.com