Parts of a Split Type Aircon and Their Uses

The split-type air conditioner is one of the most common types of AC unit nowadays. While window air conditioners are still the most preferred unit of many consumers, the split AC is becoming more popular too. It’s because split air conditioners have a quieter operation and a more stylish appearance. 

Generally, a split air conditioner works by placing the indoor unit within the room of your choice, then the outdoor unit outside in an open area. These two units are connected with a copper tubing where the humidity and hot air go out.

Let’s see how each component functions.

Outdoor Unit

Generally, the outdoor unit is installed outside either above the height or below the room where the indoor unit is placed. The airflow mechanism is generated inside the compressor and the condenser, onto the open area to effectively disperse humidity. However, there are many more components found in the outdoor unit of a split air conditioner. 

Below are the split type aircon Philippine parts that make up the outside unit.

Compressor

It is the most important split conditioner air con part because it’s responsible for compressing and raising the pressure before transporting the refrigerant to the condenser. The size is usually based on the intended air conditioning load, wherein the compressor is hermetically sealed. However, you cannot see the motor because it’s tightly installed inside the outdoor unit, which is why it needs external power.

Moreover, this external power is used to compress the gas refrigerant, which then dissipates the heat into the open space.

Condenser Coil

The coiled copper tubing is used depending on the size of the compressor. The condensing coil of split air conditioners is made of copper tubing because of its high rate of heat conduction capability. Meanwhile, aluminum fins are also used to cover the condenser. This allows the heat to be evacuated efficiently from the refrigerant.

Moreover, the high-pressure, medium-temperature refrigerant leaves the condenser and passes through the expansion valve, where its temperature and pressure drop dramatically.

Condenser Fan

The condenser fans act as the mediating component that circulates the heat generated within the compressor to the open space. The heat needs to be thrown out, otherwise, it will accumulate humidity in the air conditioner, which might lead to its internal breakdown. The cooling fan is located in front of the compressor and the condenser coil.

The cooling fan is made of at least three to four blades, which maintains the cooling effect of the split AC unit. Remember that too much-accumulated heat will reduce the AC’s cooling capability. As long as the blades of the unit are not damaged, then the rest of the outdoor unit will still function well.

Expansion Valve

The expansion valve is constructed to remove the excess refrigerating air built in by the compressors. It also helps cool the house by functioning with the condenser and the compressor to maintain effective airflow.

Indoor Unit

The other part which makes up the whole of the split AC is the indoor unit which is located inside the room of your choice. Depending on the room design, layout, and climate control requirements of your country, indoor units can be installed as wall-mounted, floor-standing, cassette-mounted, or ceiling-mounted. It’s in this part where the filtered air comes from. It usually comprises a cooling coil and an evaporator coil, which removes dust and allergens from your house.

Let’s see what are the major parts of the indoor unit of a split air conditioner.

Evaporator Coils

It’s where the room’s heat exchange takes place. Fins and tubes make up the structure. It also has a supply and a return air grille, where the air enters and exits.

Control Fan

The indoor unit has a control panel where the user may control the air conditioner’s functionality. This includes the process of operation, timer, on/off status, cooling speed, and other unique functions of the split AC. 

Air Filter

The air filter is placed in front of the evaporator coil which improves the air quality in your space. Typically, this is washable at least once every three months and reusable, after days of filtering out the dust from your place.

Fan Blower

The fan blower can be controlled by adjusting its speed from normal, to medium, or high. This allows you to maintain cooled air.

Capillary Tube

It functions as an expansion device. The tube’s diameter, shape, and length dictate the refrigerant flow and in most cases, the tube is employed in smaller units. In addition, larger split AC units use a thermostatic expansion valve, which can be controlled via remote control or manually. This enhances the control of both the temperature and the airflow of the AC system.

Final Thoughts on the Split Air Conditioner

Components such as the compressor, the expansion valve, and the fans are split into an outdoor and indoor unit. It’s more ergonomic and you won’t have to open a hole in the wall that might ruin your room’s interior design. Moreover, this air conditioner can fill your place with cool air without too much legwork. Thus, it’s important to know the different parts of a split-type aircon and their uses. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Dismantle Split Type Aircon

There are several ways to dismantle split type aircon to clean or for other reasons. The most common is to use a screwdriver. However, you can also use a hammer or a chisel.

If you are using a screwdriver, first remove the screws that hold the back panel in place. Next, remove the screws that hold the front panel in place. Finally, remove the screws that hold the side panels in place.

If you are using a hammer, first remove the back panel. Next, remove the front panel. Finally, remove the side panels.

If you are using a chisel, first remove the back panel. Next, remove the front panel. Finally, chisel off the side panels.

Once all the panels are removed, you will be able to access the aircon’s network of internal components. These include the compressor, condenser, evaporator, and expansion valve.