What are the parts of an Air Conditioning System?
Air conditioning is made up of many small components, each contributing a significant role in the efficient operation of the whole air conditioning system. Among these components are the compressor, refrigerant and condenser. Understanding how each works is critical to maintaining proper functioning of the entire air conditioning system. A look at each component in turn will reveal some of the common problems associated with them.
Compressor Units There are two main types of air conditioning parts – compressor units and refrigerant pumps. The compressor is responsible for storing the pressurized gas or liquid fuel in a closed unit that requires pressure to maintain the temperature of the stored gas. There are three main types of compressors: electric compressors, conventional compressors, and metered compressors. Conventional compressors are powered by either pneumatic or hydraulic power. Electric compressors use electricity or an alternator to work.
Refrigerant Pipes: Located between the compressor and condenser unit, refrigerant pipes transport the liquid refrigerant through a series of air conditioning parts called the refrigeration lines. Refrigerants are pumped through the refrigerant lines through a pressure regulating valve, which maintains a constant pressure and temperature. The compressor is a high-pressure unit that draws refrigerant from the refrigeration lines. It then pumps it through the refrigerant pipe to the evaporator coils where heat is transferred to the air conditioning system. The refrigerant gas flows from the evaporator through the lines to the condenser unit of the air conditioner. The condenser unit is where cold air is collected in a compressor that warms it before flowing into the outdoor evaporator coils.
Condenser Unit: One of the main air conditioning parts, the condenser is a sealed unit that allows heat from the refrigerant gases to be conducted to the outdoor evaporator coil. It maintains constant refrigerant temperature and pressure. Warm air is then drawn across the evaporator to the indoor air conditioning unit, which is controlled by the thermostat settings. The compressor is also known as the indoor unit. It is where cool air can be compressed before being blown into the outdoor unit.
AC Compressor: An air conditioning part, the compressor is a specially designed piece that compresses air in a specific way. The compressor is connected to the blower to act as its rotor, with the compressor acting as the drive wheel. A screw forces the blower housing out of the condenser and the process begins. Air is then forced into the blower and the air is blown through the cone filter. It is this process that takes air through the blower, through the filter, and to the evaporator coils.
AC Oiler: Another air conditioner parts, the other is a vane-style fan that draws air through an aluminum tube that ends at the front of the ac unit. This part is usually only needed to be replaced if the compressor or condenser need to be replaced. They are both required for most air conditioning systems. For those systems that only need one installed, an OEM part is likely to be sufficient, although you should always consult with a licensed air conditioning professional before making any modifications to your system.
AC Motor: All ACs work on the principle of alternating electricity, which means that they need a motor to work with them. The compressor is the motor. It is the most important part of an air conditioning system. Although an AC motor is a permanent component of your car’s air conditioning system, it will still need to be serviced and repaired occasionally. It is important to contact an AC expert who can handle the repair work when this happens.
AC Components: Air conditioning components are usually made up of many different parts. While the main components are located in one area of the system there are many specialty components that can also be found throughout the house. Common HVAC parts include heat exchangers, expansion valves, refrigeration coils and blowers.
