What Are the Main Differences Between a Simple Air Conditioning & a Refrigeration System?

Components

• Main differences between a simple air conditioning system and a refrigeration system start with the number of required components. Air conditioning units need three key pieces: the compressor, condenser and the evaporator. Refrigeration systems have four required pieces: the compressor, condenser, an expansion or throttling device and an evaporator. Both devices use a cooling agent. Commonly used agents contain compounds like anhydrous ammonia or antifreeze that can withstand transformation between liquid and gas form. Water is sometimes used as a cooling agent.

Uses

• Air conditioning units cool indoor locations. Typically, units sit in a window with a rear portion remaining on the outside. The general public purchases air conditioners rated in a variety of British Thermal Units. BTU ratings are indicative of the space a unit is effectively able to cool. Air conditioners with high BTU ratings are capable of cooling larger rooms. Refrigerators, industrial coolers and automotive air conditioning units use refrigeration systems for cooling.

Cooling Methods

• In an air conditioner, the compressor squeezes cooling agents and warms the fluid, turning it into gas. Gas travels into the condenser where cooler temperatures convert it into liquid form. Fluids are sent to the evaporator where they are transformed back into a gas. Surrounding air is cooled as the released gasses evaporate into the environment. Refrigeration systems operate in a similar manner, but gases released from the evaporator travel through enclosed tubes to cool a specified location.

Maintenance

• Clean air conditioning condensing unit coils and belts. Check coolant levels regularly. Clean or change filters on a regular basis to keep units operating at maximum levels. Refrigeration systems require professional maintenance. Technicians check coolant levels and look for signs of corrosion. They check the drip pan along with drain lines and the trap, which filters out debris carried by cooling agents. Professional maintenance is another of the main differences between a simple air conditioning unit and a refrigeration system.