The Science of Air Conditioning

Air conditioners may be a gift to humanity, but they’re complicated machines. As they keep your family cool and comfy inside, dozens of chemical reactions are functioning to make the air a perfect temperature. Whether you’re curious about your system or wondering how to do some simple fixes, there is plenty to know about the processes around AC units.

One of the reasons that air conditioner information is so scarce is due to the large amount of parts units have. Luckily, breaking them down by what they do makes it a lot easier to understand. Learn about the science behind your AC system from your Humble AC team, Air Tech of Humble!

The Blowers and the Ducts

Firstly, the blowers act to push conditioned or heated air into your house through the ducts. A single-speed blower turns on whenever the house is not at the right temperature and turns off when the temperature is correct. A multi-speed blower will adjust the speed depending on the inside temperature. This air then travels through the ducts of the house, where it is deposited in the different rooms. There is a returning and a supply air duct, giving proper circulation to every room.

The Air Filters and the Thermostat

Additionally, air filters and the thermostat work together to control the air quality and temperature in your home. Air filters take impurities out of the air so that it is completely safe to breathe. The most common indoor pollutants are dander, bacteria, and different types of dust. Air filters need to be replaced in order for them to remain efficient. A good way to tell that they’re past due for changing is if your HVAC system begins to smell. So, the thermostat activates internal coils and refrigerant to make the temp change, stopping when it hits what it is set to.

The Compressor and the Expansion Valve

The AC compressor and the expansion valve serve to regulate the temperature in the unit. Refrigerant is the main chemical that cools down the air, and the compressor pushes it through the machine to make the air change. The expansion valve is the opposite, removing the pressure to make the air warmer. These two work together, often at the same time, to keep the house at the ideal temperature.

The Evaporator and Condensing Coil

The evaporator acts as a way to reduce the moisture in the air in order to cool it. During AC installation, a technician will explain the pairings of refrigerant and evaporators. Consumption takes the heat from the evaporator and pushes it outside. This is an important part of temperature control as if the hot air doesn’t leave the house the air will get muggy.

Curious About Air Conditioning? Learn From Air Tech of Humble

The many mysteries of air conditioning aren’t out of your reach! At Air Tech of Humble, we are excited to see your system working in its top capacity. Whether it’s a new air filter installation or an emergency air conditioning issue, service is our top priority. Call or schedule a consultation online today for guaranteed happiness with your HVAC systems!