Commercial Air Conditioner Parts and Functions

Commercial air conditioner and other home conditioning systems distribute a compressed gas refrigerant in a closed "split" system to cool and condition air. The air from the outside is the medium most often used for the refrigerant to be cooled and condensed. The "split" system simply means that parts are divided into inside and outside components where they are not located or housed in a single unit or package.

In a modified air system, an installed blower inside the unit circulates the conditioned air through ducts. It is then distributed to the rooms where the cool temperature is needed. You can find the air ducts below the ceiling or inside the room, or in the attic. An installed fan pulls air from the outside of the unit and draws it back to the system to cool and condense the refrigerant. The refrigerants, more commonly known by the trademark "Freon" helps cool and dehumidify the air inside in a closed environment. "Freon" is a registered trademark of the DuPont Company for refrigerants.

The major parts and functions in a split commercial air conditioner include:

1. Compressor (outdoors)

There is more than one type of Compressors. The studies of Consumer reports show that a reciprocating compressor is more prone to trouble than the scroll type compressors. In terms of pricing, the later proves to be more expensive but higher in efficiency and runs a quiet motor. Therefore it is cost effective than reciprocating compressors. However, manufacturer offer both types of compressors in the market.

2. Fan (outdoors)

The outdoor fan draws air through the condenser coil for heat dispersal.

3. Evaporators (indoors)

Evaporators are composed of network of tubes. These tubes are filled with refrigerant. When the refrigerant evaporates into gas, it removes heat and moisture from the air.

4. Air handling unit (indoors)

Air handling unit is the blower and other associated parts in the central air conditioning system. It moves the air through the duct that is later distributed into different areas of the house.

5. Air filters (Indoors)

The air conditioner's health and performance is partly accountable to the air filters. Air filter has elements that trap dust, pollen, and other airborne particles as air moves through the commercial air conditioning unit.

6. Drainage system and pan

Air conditioner accumulates large amounts of water as a by-product of the normal condensation process. In a central A/C system, there is a primary system of pipes, often made of PVC, that carry this condensate water to the outside of the building.

Your service company should conduct a scheduled annual system tune up. You should have some kind of emergency drain pan installed inside your A/C system to catch condensed water in case the primary drain lines incur some problems. Preventive maintenance of commercial air conditioner units is necessary to promote safety and to avoid other damages around it.