How Does a Split Air Conditioner Work?
When it comes to keeping your resident cool and comfortable during Australia’s hot summers, few systems are as effective and popular as the split air conditioner. Split systems are a great option for homes and workplaces since they are quiet, energy-efficient, and easy to install. But have you ever wondered how does a split air conditioner work to keep your indoor environment so pleasant and refreshing? In this blog, we’ll break down how a split air conditioner works and why it’s a top pick for many Australian households.
What Is a Split Air Conditioner?
Before we get into how split air conditioner works, let’s understand what it is. A conditioner works as a type of cooling system that “splits” its main components into two separate units. It consists of both an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. These two split system air conditioning units work together to cool and circulate air efficiently throughout your home.
Indoor Unit: Mounted on a ceiling or wall, the indoor unit generally contains the evaporator coil and air handler (fan). Its job is to absorb heat from the room’s air and blow cool air back into your living space.
Outdoor Unit: Installed outside your home, this unit contains the compressor, condenser coil, and expansion valve. It’s responsible for releasing the heat absorbed from indoors into the outside air.
The two units are generally connected by insulated copper pipes and electrical wiring, allowing refrigerant to flow between them and complete the cooling cycle.
The Science Behind Split System Cooling
So, how does a split system air conditioner work? The working of a split system air conditioner revolves around the refrigeration cycle. It is a continuous process that transfers heat from inside your home to the outdoors. Let’s take a closer look at each step of this split air conditioner working cycle:
1. Heat Absorption Inside the Room
When you turn on your air conditioner, warm air from the room is generally drawn into the indoor unit through an air inlet. This air passes over the evaporator coil. It contains a cooling refrigerant (a special chemical compound designed to absorb heat).
As the refrigerant absorbs the heat from the indoor air, it evaporates into a gas. The now-cooled air is blown back into the room through the unit’s vents, lowering the indoor temperature.
2. Refrigerant Compression
The refrigerant gas now carries the absorbed heat. It travels through copper pipes towards the outdoor unit. Here, the compressor plays a crucial role. It compresses the refrigerant gas, increasing its pressure and temperature.
This step is essential because it allows the refrigerant to release the absorbed heat as it reaches the condenser coil.
3. Heat Release Outdoors
Once compressed, the hot, high-pressure refrigerant gas flows through the condenser coil into the outdoor unit. A fan blows air over the coil, helping dissipate the heat into the outside environment.
As the refrigerant releases its heat outdoors, it cools down. Then, it turns back into a liquid form.
4. Pressure Reduction and Recirculation
The cooled refrigerant then passes via an expansion valve, which lowers its pressure and temperature. The refrigerant, now in a low-pressure, cool liquid state, returns to the indoor evaporator coil. This is ready to absorb more heat and continue the cycle.
This process repeats continuously until the desired room temperature is achieved.
Components of a Split System Air Conditioner
To understand how split air conditioners works, it’s important to know what each component does:
Compressor: The heart of the system; it pumps and compresses the refrigerant, enabling the transfer of heat between the indoor and outdoor units.
Condenser Coil: Generally located in the outdoor unit, it releases the heat absorbed from inside your room.
Expansion Valve: Regulates refrigerant flow and controls temperature and pressure changes.
Evaporator Coil: Generally found in the indoor unit, it absorbs heat from the room air to start the cooling process.
Fan (Blower): Circulates cool air throughout the room.
Refrigerant: The chemical medium responsible for absorbing and releasing heat as it converts from liquid to gas and back again.
Benefits of Using a Split Air Conditioner
Investing in a split air conditioner offers more than just cooling relief during the sweltering Australian summer. Here are some of the key benefits that make split air conditioners stand out from traditional cooling systems.
Quiet Operation: The compressor and condenser (the noisiest parts) are placed outdoors, ensuring a peaceful indoor environment.
Flexible Installation: Split systems don’t require ductwork, making them easier and less invasive to install.
Cost-Effective: Ideal for cooling single rooms or specific areas, saving both on installation and energy bills.
Better Air Quality: Most modern systems include advanced filters that remove dust, allergens, and pollutants from indoor air.
Heating Capability: Reverse-cycle models can also provide efficient heating during winter, making them useful year-round.
Why Professional Installation Matters
While a split system may seem straightforward, professional installation is important for long-term performance and safety. Incorrect installation may lead to major issues such as refrigerant leaks, poor cooling efficiency, and even higher energy bills.
A licensed technician from Petrelli Electrical Services ensures that:
The units (indoor and outdoor) are correctly positioned for optimal airflow.
The refrigerant lines are properly sealed.
Electrical connections meet safety standards.
The system is tested for efficiency and reliability.
Our professionals can also recommend the right system size for your room, helping you avoid underpowered or oversized units that waste energy. We can help you make the choice for the best split system air conditioner for your needs.
Taking Professional Help for Maintenance
Even the most advanced split system requires regular maintenance to perform at its best. Professional servicing typically includes:
Cleaning filters and coils.
Checking refrigerant levels.
Inspecting electrical connections.
Ensuring the drain lines are clear.
At Petrelli Electrical Services, our qualified technicians offer reliable maintenance and servicing for all major air conditioning brands. Whether it’s a seasonal tune-up or troubleshooting a performance issue, we ensure your system keeps running efficiently.
Final Thoughts
With this blog, we hope we have answered how a split system air conditioner works. Split air conditioner systems are a great option for contemporary Australian houses since they effectively transport heat and maintain a constant temperature.
However, the key to long-lasting performance lies in professional split system air conditioner installation and maintenance. If you’re considering installing a new split system air conditioner or need expert servicing, Petrelli Electrical Services is here to help. Our experienced team provides end-to-end air conditioning services, ensuring your resident stays comfortable.