YOUR CENTRAL COOLING SYSTEM

What it is
Most homes are cooled by a split system air conditioner which is contained within an outdoor cabinet. The three components of the split system are the condenser, compressor, and evaporator. There is a coil, containing refrigerant, which runs throughout the system, and is the means by which a home is cooled.

How it works
As the thermostat of your home detects a rise in the temperature, it sends a signal to the air handler which pulls in air from all around your home through the various returns. As this warmer air is carried across the coil, the cold refrigerant absorbs the heat and converts it to vapor. The compressor then pressurizes this vapor as it travels through the coil and disperses the heat outside your home with the help of a fan. As the refrigerant passes through an expansion device, it is converted back to liquid with a cooler temperature and lower pressure. As a result, the air is cooled and circulated throughout the home continually.