In this article, we will explain how to evaluate the proper functioning of an air conditioning system using only temperature readings.
Temperature in the Evaporator and Condenser
The average temperature of the pipes in the evaporator, located in the indoor unit, should be approximately 5°C in a properly functioning system. On the other hand, the average temperature of the condenser, located in the outdoor unit, should be about 10°C higher than the ambient outdoor temperature.
Airflow in the Refrigeration Cycle
When the air conditioner is first turned on, the airflow emitted will initially have the ambient temperature. As it quickly passes through the evaporator, which is at 5°C, the air cools down to around 10°C.
As the system operates, the air in the room, initially at 23°C, is drawn by the evaporator fan, cooled again to 10°C, and returned to the space in a continuous cycle. This ensures consistent cooling of the room.
Temperatures in Refrigerant Pipes
In a correctly operating system:
- The thin pipe, which transports liquid refrigerant to the evaporator, should be near 5°C.
- The thick pipe, which carries gaseous refrigerant from the evaporator to the outdoor unit, should be warmer, at approximately 9°C.
This 4°C difference reflects the refrigerant’s superheating and indicates proper operation.
Issues Detected by Abnormal Temperatures
1. Low or Absent Superheating
If the temperatures of the pipes are too close to each other:
- This suggests the refrigerant is not absorbing enough heat from the air, possibly due to:
- Dirty air filters.
- Evaporator freezing, which blocks airflow.
- Slow fan speed, reducing airflow.
2. High Superheating
Excessive superheating, such as when the thin pipe is around 0°C and the thick pipe reaches 15°C, may indicate:
- Low refrigerant levels.
- A clogged capillary tube.
- A malfunctioning compressor.
3. Lack of Refrigerant
If the compressor is running but the thin pipe does not cool, possible causes include:
- Refrigerant leakage.
- Blockage in the capillary tube.
- Mechanical failure in the compressor.
