Air conditioning

Air conditioning

Air conditioning unit being inspected

Air conditioning is the process of removing heat and moisture from the interior of an occupied space to improve the comfort of occupants. Air conditioning can be used in both domestic and commercial environments. This process is most commonly used to achieve a more comfortable interior environment, typically for humans or animals; however, air conditioning is also used to cool and dehumidify rooms filled with heat-producing electronic devices, such as computer servers, power amplifiers, and to display and store some delicate products, such as artwork.

History

Willis Carrier, inventor of modern air conditioning

The modern air conditioning system was invented in 1902 by Willis Carrier. Carrier's invention was designed to improve the manufacturing process of a printing plant. Over time, air conditioning evolved to become a standard feature in homes and businesses.

Components

Air conditioning systems typically consist of several key components:

• Compressor: Compresses the refrigerant and circulates it through the system.
• Condenser: Releases the heat absorbed from the indoor environment.
• Evaporator: Absorbs heat from the indoor air.
• Expansion valve: Regulates the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator.
• Refrigerant: The fluid that absorbs and releases heat as it circulates through the air conditioning system.

Types of Air Conditioning Systems

Central Air Conditioning

Central air conditioning systems are used to cool entire buildings. They are typically installed in large buildings and use a system of ducts to distribute cooled air throughout the building.

Split Air Conditioning

Indoor unit of a split air conditioning system

Split air conditioning systems consist of an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit contains the compressor and condenser, while the indoor unit contains the evaporator.

Portable Air Conditioning

Portable air conditioning unit

Portable air conditioning units are standalone units that can be moved from room to room. They are typically used to cool individual rooms rather than entire buildings.

Heat Pumps

Diagram of a heat pump

Heat pumps are a type of air conditioning system that can provide both heating and cooling. They work by transferring heat from one place to another.

Control Systems

Air conditioning systems are often controlled by remote controls or thermostats. Modern systems may include programmable thermostats or smart controls that can be operated via smartphone apps.

Related Pages

• Refrigeration
• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
• Thermodynamics
• Willis Carrier

Gallery

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  Daikin air conditioning unit

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  Indoor unit of a Daikin air conditioner

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  Fujitsu air conditioning unit

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  Remote control for a Daikin air conditioner

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  Infrared transmitter for a Daikin air conditioner

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  Receiver on an air conditioning unit