Air conditioners are designed to move heat from inside a building to the outside, while dispersing cold air back into the space. This is achieved by blowing air over a set of cold pipes, known as an evaporator coil. This process works similarly to a refrigerator or when water evaporates from the skin. Not only do air conditioners maintain the right level of humidity and temperature, but they also improve air quality.
The air circulated is filtered and free of dirt particles, dust, and bacteria that enter through doors and windows. This is especially beneficial for those with allergies or asthma, as it minimizes irritants that can trigger an attack. However, this is only true if the system is kept clean and the filters are changed regularly. Otherwise, air conditioning can contribute to indoor air pollution.
Central air systems draw warm air out of a home and release its heat to the outside. Then, the freshly cooled air is distributed through a duct system in the house. The indoor unit includes an evaporator coil and a blower fan (air handler) that circulates air throughout the property. In addition to cooling a space, air conditioners can help keep indoor pets free of fleas and ticks.
To maximize efficiency, electrical appliances should be turned off when not in use. Portable units draw indoor air out through a single duct, negatively affecting overall cooling efficiency. The air is filtered to detect dust, lint, and debris before heat and moisture are absorbed from it. Most air conditioners have a filter above the evaporator coil that removes particulates to keep the system clean and remove contaminants from the air.
By purchasing an air conditioner adapted to your climate, you can ensure that you are not using unnecessary energy to power it. The thermostat monitors and controls the temperature of the indoor air and is usually mounted on a wall in a central location inside the house. In the case of a ductless minisplit, there is an outdoor unit connected to an indoor unit and all cooled air will be pumped into the single room where the indoor unit is located. Split-system air conditioners (also known as “central air”) have a fan that blows indoor air through the cold coil of the evaporator where heat inside the house is absorbed into the refrigerant. To maximize efficiency, nothing should block the airflow of your air conditioner.
