As we come closer and closer to the summer months, we rely more heavily on our air conditioning to not only keep ourselves cool, but also sane! Your air conditioning condenser plays a large role in keeping you and your family happy.

What Does an Air Condenser Do?

During the Florida summer months, we rely upon our air conditioning systems to provide sweet relief from the unforgiving heat and humidity. Air conditioning systems are made up of two main parts, an outdoor condenser unit and an indoor evaporator unit. This indoor evaporator unit uses a chemical coolant to transfer the heat from inside your house to the outdoors, making the air in your home cooler and less humid.

The Function of the Condenser in the Cooling Process

Similar to radiators and evaporators, condensers are also made up of a series of tubes with fins around them. Unlike an evaporator, which absorbs heat, the condenser’s job is to release it. More specifically, it releases the heat the coolant absorbed while it was flowing through the evaporator. The coolant enters the condenser as a high-pressure vapor. As it flows through the condenser and cools off, it turns back into a cooler high-pressure liquid.

Common Problems with Condensers

Some of the most common types of problems that can develop with air conditioning condensers include dirt, dust or debris buildup on the coils. Dirty coils are less likely to dispel heat. Bent fins can also be a problem. Cooling fins that are damaged might not be able to release heat effectively. Lastly, coolant leaks can also lead to a problem with the condenser. Damage to the coils can result in coolant leaks and make your whole system less effective.

Maintain Your Condenser

In order to ensure that your condenser remains in top shape, make sure that the area surrounding stays clear of any debris. Between routine maintenance visits, you can clean the coils with a hose and a brush. However, make sure the brush is made for this purpose.

Take good care of your air conditioning condenser and it will take good care of you in return, keeping you cool all summer long!