What is a Condenser Unit?

The condenser unit is an extremely important part of your air conditioning system. Located outdoors, it works in sync with other parts that run through your home to maintain a comfortable temperature inside.

While most of us probably don’t put much thought into how our air conditioners work, knowing the ins and outs can be helpful when it comes to repairs and maintenance. Knowing more about how your AC unit works can also help you use it more efficiently.  This will allow you to save energy and money! Here’s what you need to know about your air conditioner’s condenser unit.

What is a Condenser Unit?

We’ll start with the basics. The condenser unit is the part of your HVAC system situated outside your home. You’ll probably recognize it as a rectangular metal unit with a large circular fan in the middle and vents on the sides.

The condenser unit’s job is to condense refrigerant from a vapor into a liquid. The device works alongside the compressor, which is where refrigerant is pressurized into a hot liquid. The refrigerant travels to the condenser, passing through several coils. As the liquid heats up, some of it escapes through the condenser. By the time it reaches the end of the coils, it is much cooler. The cool liquid then travels through a valve, leaving the condenser and becoming water vapor. When it reaches evaporator coils, it evaporates fully into a cool gas, which is then blown through the air ducts and into your home.

How to Keep Your Condenser Running Efficiently

Since AC condenser units are generally located outdoors, they are subject to different environmental factors than indoor components, and require unique attention and care. Condenser units are regularly exposed to dirt, leaves, grass clippings and other debris, all of which can build and up and slow down air flow or cause a clog.

To prevent build up, try to keep your condenser unit clean. A debris-free condenser unit will run more efficiently.

Another way to increase efficiency is by shading your condenser unit with landscaping. The air in a shaded area can be about five to six degrees cooler than in a non-shaded area, and a condenser unit can run up to 10 percent more efficiently if it is shaded.

You can shade your condenser by planting shrubs or small trees around it, or setting up a trellis or canopy draped with a fast-growing vine plant like ivy. Just be sure to leave a buffer of at least two to three feet between your condenser and any landscaping so a technician can still access it.

Regular Maintenance is a Condenser Unit Must!

A well-maintained condenser unit makes for a happy air conditioning system a comfortable home. At Sea Coast Air Conditioning, our professional technicians can perform the necessary preventative maintenance and cleaning services to keep your unit running smoothly and efficiently.

Visit our website to learn more about what we can do for you, or call today to schedule an appointment!