Air conditioning

What İs Air Conditioner?

Air conditioners are devices primarily used to regulate climate conditions. They are widely used to cool, heat, and also regulate humidity in homes, offices, commercial establishments, and vehicles.
Air conditioners consist of several main components: a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and expansion valve. The compressor compresses the refrigerant gas and sends it under high pressure to the condenser, where the gas is cooled and converted into a liquid. In the evaporator, the liquid refrigerant expands and turns back into a gas, cooling the air in the process.
Modern air conditioners come in various models focusing on energy efficiency and environmental impact. Air conditioners with both cooling and heating functions can be used for cooling in the summer and heating in the winter.

History of Air Conditioners

First Air Conditioner Models

The first air conditioner models emerged in the early 20th century. The first air conditioner in history was invented in 1902 by an engineer named Willis Carrier. He created this device for a printing factory in New York. The purpose was to control the humidity of the paper during printing and reduce the heat generated in the process.
This first air conditioner model had a simple structure compared to modern air conditioners and was mainly used for industrial purposes. The device used dangerous chemicals like ammonia to cool the air, making it unsuitable for domestic use.

Development of Modern Air Conditioners

Modern air conditioners are equipped with more energy-efficient, quieter, and flexible control functions. Inverter technology is widely used to increase energy efficiency and extend the lifespan of the device.
The development of modern air conditioners has seen significant advances due to increased technology and energy efficiency. Unlike the first air conditioner models, modern air conditioners stand out for their higher performance and lower energy consumption.

Benefits of Air Conditioners

• Cooling and Heating Regulation: Air conditioners allow maintaining the desired temperature in your home or office. This creates great comfort, especially on hot summer days and cold winter nights.
• Air Purification and Filtration: Modern air conditioners are equipped with filters that clean the air from dust, allergens, and other harmful substances. This feature is important for people suffering from conditions like asthma and allergies.
• Humidity Regulation: Air conditioners also help regulate the level of humidity. Excessive humidity can cause mold and bacteria to form in the home.

Operating Principle of Air Conditioners

Cooling Process of Air Conditioners

The cooling process of air conditioners mainly operates on a refrigeration cycle. This process consists of four main stages: compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation.

1. Compression: The cooling process starts with the compressor. The compressor compresses the refrigerant gas (freon) inside the air conditioner and sends it to the condenser under high pressure. At this stage, the temperature of the gas also increases.
2. Condensation: The condenser cools the gaseous refrigerant and turns it into a liquid. During this process, the substance’s heat is transferred to the external environment. This stage occurs in the external part of the air conditioner, where hot air is expelled through the rear channels of the device.
3. Expansion: The liquid refrigerant is sent to the evaporator through the expansion valve. This valve reduces the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant, causing it to expand and partially turn into vapor.
4. Evaporation: In the evaporator, the refrigerant completely turns into vapor. At this point, heat from the surroundings is absorbed by the refrigerant, causing the air to cool down. The cooled air is then blown into the room by the air conditioner’s fan, lowering the room temperature. The evaporated refrigerant returns to the compressor, and the cycle repeats

This cyclical process results in the cooling of the air and ensures a comfortable temperature inside the room. Modern air conditioners perform this process with high energy efficiency, thus reducing energy consumption and minimizing the environmental impact.

Role of the Compressor in Air Conditioners

The compressor in an air conditioner is one of the most critical components and plays an essential role in the cooling process. The compressor is considered the "heart" of the air conditioner because it enables the movement of the refrigerant within the system and allows it to change phases.

The main functions of the compressor are:

1. Compressing the Refrigerant: The compressor compresses the refrigerant in its gaseous state and sends it to the condenser under high pressure. At this stage, both the pressure and the temperature of the gas increase. The high-pressure refrigerant can then be cooled and liquefied in the condenser.
2. Ensuring the Continuity of the Process: The compressor ensures the movement of the refrigerant within the system. The refrigerant is first compressed in its gaseous state, then cooled in the condenser, reduced in pressure through the expansion valve, and after turning back into gas in the evaporator, the cycle continues. Without the compressor, this cyclical process would not be possible, and the air conditioner would not be able to perform its cooling function.
3. Temperature Regulation: The working speed of the compressor ensures the accuracy of the temperature. In modern compressors with inverter technology, this speed is regulated, resulting in reduced energy consumption and more precise temperature control.
4. Energy Efficiency: The quality and technology of the compressor directly impact the overall energy efficiency of the air conditioner. A well-functioning compressor provides high performance with lower energy consumption.

Overall, the compressor forms the basis of the air conditioner’s functionality, and its proper operation plays a decisive role in ensuring the efficient cooling of the device.

Role of the Condenser and Evaporator in an Air Conditioner

The condenser and evaporator in an air conditioner are two essential components that play a key role in the cooling process. Both perform the function of heat transfer and cooling the air by changing the phases of the refrigerant.

Role of the Condenser

1. Liquefaction of the Refrigerant: The condenser cools the high-pressure and high-temperature refrigerant gas from the compressor and turns it into a liquid. During this process, the refrigerant loses its heat and transfers it to the external environment. The condenser changes the phase of the refrigerant and turns it into a liquid.
2. Heat Transfer to the Exterior: The condenser is the component that releases heat from the system. As the refrigerant turns into a liquid, the heat is dissipated from the surface of the condenser into the environment. This process occurs in the external unit of the air conditioner, and hot air is expelled through the channels at the back of the device.
3. Circulation of the Refrigerant: The liquid refrigerant from the condenser is sent to the evaporator through the expansion valve. This circulation ensures the continuity of the air conditioner’s cooling function.

Role of the Evaporator

1. Cooling the Air: The evaporator receives the low-pressure refrigerant from the expansion valve. At this stage, the refrigerant expands and partially turns into vapor. In the evaporator, the refrigerant completely evaporates, absorbing heat from the surroundings. As a result, the air temperature decreases, and cool air is blown into the room.
2. Absorbing Heat: The evaporator is the component that transfers heat from the air to the refrigerant. The air cools down as the refrigerant turns into vapor and returns to the compressor. This process results in a decrease in the room temperature.
3. Reducing Humidity: The evaporator also reduces humidity in the air. During the evaporation process on cold surfaces, water vapor condenses and collects as water droplets. This water is expelled from the device through the air conditioner’s drainage system.

Conclusion
The condenser and evaporator are essential parts of the air conditioner’s cooling cycle. The condenser releases heat to the exterior and liquefies the refrigerant, while the evaporator absorbs heat and cools the air. The interaction of these two components results in the efficient regulation of the room temperature by the air conditioner.

Types of Air Conditioners

Split System Air Conditioners

Split systems are the most common type of air conditioners, consisting of indoor and outdoor units. These air conditioners are used in both homes and offices.

Split-type air conditioners are one of the most widely used types of air conditioners for residential and commercial purposes. These air conditioners consist of two main units: an indoor (evaporator) and an outdoor (condenser) unit. This design ensures both efficient cooling and quieter operation.

VRV, VRF System Air Conditioners

VRV (Variable Refrigerant Volume) and VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) air conditioners are advanced cooling and heating systems used in large-scale spaces, including commercial buildings, hotels, offices, and multi-story residential complexes. These systems operate through a single outdoor unit that manages several indoor units, regulating the flow of refrigerant and enhancing energy efficiency.

Considerations When Choosing an Air Conditioner

• Choosing the Right Power for the Size of the Home: When choosing an air conditioner, it’s essential to select the power that matches the size of the home or space. A large-powered air conditioner for a small home can lead to energy waste.
• Energy Efficiency: Energy efficiency is one of the main considerations when selecting an air conditioner. Energy efficiency ratings (A, A+, A++, etc.) are important indicators in this regard.
• Noise Level: The noise level of the air conditioner is also an important factor, as it’s crucial for comfort in a quiet environment, whether working or resting.

Installation of Air Conditioners

• Importance of Proper Installation: Proper installation of the air conditioner is crucial for its longevity and efficient operation. It is recommended to have it installed by professional technicians.
• Choosing the Right Location for Installation: When installing an air conditioner, it’s important to choose the right location. The placement of the external unit and the proper direction of the internal air flow are factors to consider in this process.

Maintenance and Service of Air Conditioners

1. Cleaning the Filters: The filters of air conditioners should be cleaned regularly. Dust and dirt can accumulate on the filters, reducing the efficiency of the air conditioner and even harming health.
2. Checking the Proper Level of Refrigerant: The proper level of refrigerant is crucial for the normal operation of the air conditioner. Low refrigerant levels reduce the cooling power and can damage the compressor.
3. Importance of Professional Maintenance: Professional maintenance of air conditioners is essential to extend their lifespan and ensure maximum efficiency. Inspections by specialists allow for the detection of potential problems in advance.

Energy Usage of Air Conditioners

• Energy Efficiency Classes: Air conditioners are classified according to their energy efficiency. Air conditioners with a higher energy class consume less energy, reducing electricity costs in the long run.
• Night Modes of Air Conditioners: Night modes allow the air conditioner to operate more quietly and with lower energy consumption. This is especially beneficial for a more comfortable sleep at night.
• Energy Savings with Proper Use: Energy savings can be achieved by using the air conditioner properly. For example, keeping the temperature at an optimal level rather than lowering it too much reduces energy consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Conditioners

What features should I pay attention to when buying an air conditioner?

• When choosing an air conditioner, it’s important to consider features such as energy efficiency, power, and noise level.

How often should air conditioners be cleaned?

• The filters of the air conditioner should be cleaned at least once a month, and general maintenance should be done once a year.

How can I reduce the energy usage of my air conditioner?

• Keeping the temperature at an optimal level, using night modes, and choosing models with inverter technology can reduce energy consumption.

How can I fix a malfunction in my air conditioner?

• If the air conditioner is not working properly, first check the power source and the control panel. If the problem persists, contact a professional technician.

What is the energy consumption of air conditioners?

• The energy consumption of air conditioners varies depending on the model and usage. Energy-efficient models have an "A++" or higher energy classification, helping to reduce energy consumption.

What is the gas inside the air conditioner, and how is it refilled?

• The gas used in air conditioners is usually Freon (R-22, R-410A, etc.) or other refrigerants. If these gases deplete over time, you should contact a specialist to have them refilled.

What is the optimal temperature level when using an air conditioner?

• Generally, a temperature of 24-26°C (75-78°F) is considered optimal when using an air conditioner. This ensures comfort and reduces energy consumption.