Introduction to Refrigeration Systems : Examples of Air Conditioning

 Key Points:

1. Overview:

   • Introduction to different types of air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
   • Comments on various system examples.

2. Residential Condensing Units:

   • Example: Two units for the same house.
   • Statistic: 87% of American households have air conditioning, compared to 20% in the 1950s.
   • Implication: Significant demand for installation, repair, and maintenance.

3. Residential Heat Pump:

   • Key Component: Four-way valve or reversing valve.
   • Function: Allows heating and cooling using the same system.
   • Operating Conditions: Effective down to 25-35°F; new technologies extend use to 0°F.

4. Basic Air Conditioning System:

   • Components: Furnace, indoor coil.
   • Process: Warm return air filtered and cooled by the indoor coil, then distributed throughout the home.

5. Ductless Air Conditioner (Ductless Split System):

   • Popularity: Widely used in Asia, growing in the U.S.
   • Installation: Typically with hidden piping; exposed piping in some cases (e.g., block walls).
   • Features: Condensate pump, remote control.

6. Rooftop Units (RTUs):

   • Example: 7.5-ton unit.
   • Application: Light commercial (e.g., gas stations, convenience stores, retail spaces, big box stores).
   • Configuration: Gas-electric units, bottom discharge, or side discharge options.
   • Voltage Matching: Important when replacing units.

7. Larger Rooftop Units:

   • Example: 30-ton unit.
   • Zoning: Divided into zones with individual thermostats and dampers.
   • Fresh Air Intake: Equipped with air intake and exhaust hoods for fresh air ventilation.
   • Licensing: Some jurisdictions require special licenses for units larger than 25 or 50 tons.