Comfort and convenience are important to most homeowners and central heating and cooling systems play a pivotal role in maintaining a pleasant indoor environment. These remarkable central air systems ensure optimal temperatures throughout the year.
In this week’s blog, Merts Heating & Air Conditioning will explain the mysteries of how central air systems work.
Understanding Central Heating:
Central heating systems provide warmth and comfort during the cold Midwest winter season. The heart of this system is a boiler or furnace that generates heat. Typically, the heat source is fueled by natural or LP gas, oil or electricity. The generated heat is then distributed through a network of ducts or pipes that traverse throughout to each room via radiators, baseboard heaters or underfloor heating systems.
Demystifying Central Cooling:
Central cooling, also known as central air conditioning, ensures a cool indoor environment during hot summers. At its core lies the condenser and compressor which are located outside. This is where the refrigerant, a chemical compound that has exceptional heat-absorbing properties, circulates between the indoor and outdoor units, absorbing heat from the indoor air and releasing it outside.
The Cooling Process:
1. The refrigerant starts in the indoor unit’s evaporator coil, where it evaporates as it absorbs heat from the indoor air.
2. The evaporated refrigerant travels to the outdoor unit’s compressor, which pressurizes it, increasing its temperature.
3. The hot refrigerant passes through the outdoor condenser coil, where the absorbed heat is released outside.
4. As the refrigerant cools, it returns to its liquid state and flows back to the indoor unit to repeat the cycle.
Thermostat Control:
Central air systems are regulated by thermostats, which allow users to set their desired temperature. When the temperature falls below or rises above the set point, the thermostat sends signals to the heating or cooling system, activating it until the desired temperature is reached.
Central heating and cooling systems have revolutionized our living spaces, providing us with comfort and climate control throughout the year. Whether it’s warmth in winter or the cool breeze of AC in summer, central air systems work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep us cozy and comfortable.
To learn more about how a central air system can make your Steger, Illinois area home a sanctuary, schedule a Merts Heating & Air Conditioning Comfort Specialist today.