What is a condenser?
Many people have air conditioners but are not aware of how or what makes them work. A condenser is simply one component of an air conditioner. Whether you have an outdoor air conditioner or a window unit air conditioner your air conditioner contains a condenser.
Condensers are used in outdoor air conditioning systems as well as heat pump systems. Condensers in an air conditioning unit have very few controls. They will have an on and off switch. Occasionally these air conditioners will also have a brown out option. This option shuts down the compressor when the electrical current is low.
A condenser is simply a heat exchanger. It compresses refrigerants into a hot gas to then condense them into a liquid. A condenser is a major component in a air conditioning or heat pump unit. It moves air across the coils to facilitate the transfer of heat.
In a heat pump unit the condenser has a few more features. It will have a reverse valve that allows the unit to switch back and forth between air conditioning and heating. Even when the unit is heating, it uses the condenser for defrosting the coils. If the coils become layered with frost it will effect the units effectiveness this is defrosted when the reverse valve switches to air conditioning mode to move the hot gases through the coils melting the built up ice. It will automatically switch back to heating mode once the ice is cleared to once again heat the home.
It is very important no matter what type of unit you have to prevent the blockage of the condenser. If the condenser becomes block it can effect the units efficiency or even cause the until to completely fail. For this reason it is one of the most important components of a cooling or heating system. A condenser allows the maximum airflow to the unit.
To keep your unit in good operating condition it is vital to keep the area around the condenser clear of all debris as well as keeping the filter clear of dust and dirt. A clean machine makes a happy machine. A happy machine will keep you cool during the summer months and warm during the cold months. It is suggested to change the units filters when they become dirty, depending on your area and conditions near your home this may be as often as once a month or as seldom as every 3 to 6 months. You will have to pay close attention to your units needs to decide the right time to change or clean your units filters.
Keeping you condenser in good running condition will not only prolong the life of your heat or cooling system but also provide you with the most efficient heat and cooling system saving you money on heat and cooling.
Paul is a regular contributor to Air Conditioner Reviews an informational website for Air Conditioning ratings and reviews on several brand-names and different types including portable, central and Haier Air Conditioners
