Condenser HVAC: Description and Operation

Condenser

The condenser assembly is mounted in front of the radiator and is comprised of small coils and cooling fins. When the high-pressure, high-temperature vapor, just discharged from the compressor, enters the condenser, heat is transferred from the refrigerant to passing ambient air through the condenser's cooling fins. By the time the refrigerant has traveled the length of the condenser's coils, most of the vapor has cooled and condensed into a liquid. Refrigerant passing through the condenser is transformed from a high-pressure, high-temperature vapor into a high-pressure, medium-temperature liquid.

Condenser Fan

The condenser fan is crucial to the proper operation of the air conditioning system. The fan ensures a sufficient amount of airflow across the condenser throughout the vehicle's operating range. The fan should be checked during all air conditioning diagnosis procedures. Special attention should be given to the fan whenever excessive high-side pressure is encountered.