A/C Condensers Function
The condenser is a heat exchanger similar to the evaporator in the automotive air conditioning system. The refrigerant releases heat energy in the condenser and receives heat energy in the evaporator. It receives high temperature and high pressure vapor from the compressor and converts it to high pressure liquid.
The A/C condenser is typically located in front of the radiator and constructed of tubes surrounded by cooling fins. As air passes through the tubes and fins, the heat in the refrigerant is passed through the condenser fins and onto the atmosphere. Please note that the release of heat energy from the condenser is the opposite of the evaporator, that absorbs heat from the cabin.
The purpose of the condenser is to release heat and change the state of the refrigerant from vapor to liquid.The vapor refrigerant enters the top of the condenser and pressure forces it down to the outlet located at its bottom. As the refrigerant passes through it cools and condensation occurs. Because of this the inlet at the top should be hotter to the touch than the outlet at the bottom. This process leaves the top portion of the condenser filled with vapor and the lower portion filled with liquid. This liquid refrigerant is then passed onto the receiver drier or metering device.
Observe the condition of the condenser and look for any creases or damage from flying road debris. A crease or restriction in a condenser will appear as ice or frost forming around the area. Look for any grass or debris wedged between the radiator and the condenser that may be restricting air flow.
A non-contact infrared thermometer is often used to check for restrictions. The conversion in temperature from the top to the bottom should be smooth and even. Any sudden changes indicated a restriction in the condenser. A restriction in an automotive air conditioning condenser results in high high side pressures.
