What Does an AC Condenser Do UPDATED

When your ac is working properly, it’s easy to take it for granted. But behind the scenes, a lot is going on with your HVAC, particularly with the compressor HVAC components. Without this system, your AC will just circulate air in your home. 

Let’s break down air conditioning basics specifically with the function of compressor components, and how those affect your home’s heating and cooling.

Compressor HVAC: What It Is And How It Works

A compressor HVAC acts like the heart of the system for heating and cooling. It is responsible for pressurizing refrigerant, a special liquid that absorbs heat and pushes it through the system. 

After the refrigerant passes through the indoor evaporator coil and picks up heat in your home, it travels to the compressor. The compressor raises the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant vapor, then sends it to the condenser, which is actually located outside. 

From there, the hot gas releases its heat into the outdoor air and condenses into high-pressure liquid, ready to cycle back inside and cool your home again. Without the compressor, the refrigerant wouldn’t flow, and without the condenser, the system won’t be able to release heat.

Other components of the HVAC system include the evaporator and the expansion valve.

Function of Compressor and Other Key Components 

Function of Compressor in HVAC Systems

The compressor’s number one job is to convert low-pressure refrigerant gas into a high-temperature, high-pressure gas. This allows the refrigerant to flow through the system and dump heat outside efficiently. It is imperative to keeping the system operating. 

Function of Evaporator and Its Role in Cooling

Before the refrigerant hits the compressor, it goes through the evaporator coil indoors. While there, it absorbs heat from your living space. It also evaporates into gas and cools the surrounding air. 

Exploring Condenser Types and Technologies

Types of Condenser: From Air to Water Cooled

Condensers are used in various HVAC applications. These include air-cooled condensers that use outdoor air to remove heat and are common in homes. Water-cooled condensers that use water instead of air, which you’ll find in commercial buildings. And also evaporative condensers that combine air and water for efficient cooling, which you’ll see in industrial buildings.

Air Cooled Condenser vs. Water Cooled Condenser

Air-cooled condensers are easier to install and don’t demand as maintenance, which are critical for residential systems. Water-cooled condensers are more energy-efficient but demand more complex plumbing and ongoing water treatment.

Condenser Chemistry: The Science Behind Heat Transfer

At its heart, the condenser takes hot, high-pressure refrigerant vapor and cools it down allowing it to turn back into liquid. This is essential in releasing the heat and allowing the refrigerant absorbed indoors. It is a continuous, controlled process of heat exchange to keep your home cool.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do I tell if my AC condenser is bad?

It’s possible that you’ll have warm air blowing from vents, weird noises, or even visible leaks if you have an issue with the AC condenser. 

What happens if AC condenser is not working?

When your AC condenser isn’t working, your air conditioner won’t be able to release the heat and stop cooling your home.

What 3 things does a condenser do?

They remove heat from refrigerant, condenses it from gas to liquid, and triggers the cooling cycle. 

How much does it cost to replace an AC condenser?

It costs between $1,000 and $3,000 depending on the unit size and labor.

What does an AC condenser do outside?

The outdoor AC condenser releases heat absorbed from inside your home and the air surrounding it.

What does the condenser basically do?

It cools down hot refrigerant gas and turns it back into a liquid allowing it to cycle again.

Why is my outside AC unit not working but inside is?

There is an issue with the condenser unit’s power supply, fan motor, and capacitor if that happens.

What is the main use of a condenser?

The main use of a condenser is to expel heat from the refrigerant and converting it back into a liquid.

Why is my AC condenser not kicking on?

It could be caused by a tripped breaker, faulty capacitor, or a bad contactor.