A centralized air conditioning system is a unit which circulates cool air in a large area with the help of a well-designed structure of pipes and ducts.
Centralized air conditioning system is useful for large areas that require air conditioning like malls, hotels, auditoriums, shopping complexes etc.
Contrary to the popular belief, an air conditioning unit does not produce cool air, rather it produces a cooling effect by eliminating the hot air from the environment.
WORKING OF A CENTRALIZED AIR CONDITIONING UNIT
A centralized air conditioning unit mainly comprises of three parts-
- Evaporator
- Condenser
- Compressor
- The compressor increases the temperature and the pressure of the dry vapours and passes them further to the condenser.
- The refrigerant with the increased temperature and pressure then passes through the condenser which lowers the temperature of the refrigerant.
- The refrigerant then passes through the expansion valve which lowers its pressure. Therefore the refrigerant gets converted to a low temperature and pressure state here.
- Finally, when the refrigerant passes through the evaporator, it absorbs the heat and gets converted into cool vapors which are then released into the desired area with the help of pipes and ducts.
A fluid called the refrigerant is also present within the unit which performs a major role.
PROS AND CONS OF CENTRALIZED AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM
- A centralized air conditioning system ensures that a uniform cool temperature is maintained throughout the area.
- It also ensures that the air is filtered of any dust particulates thereby eliminating any pollutants from being released into the environment along with the cool air.
- Although the installation is a little costly, with proper maintenance the air conditioning unit can operate smoothly for a prolonged period of time without requiring any major repairs or replacements.
- A centralized air conditioning unit also acts as a dehumidifier by eliminating humidity from the environment by lowering the moisture content of the air.
- A centralized air conditioning system also works effectively as it does not produce much noise.
SOME INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT CENTRALIZED AIR CONDITIONING UNITS
- The efficiency of an air-conditioner is measured by the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER). The higher the EER rating, the better is the air conditioning unit. An EER rating of 12 is considered excellent for a central AC unit.
- The average lifespan of a centralized air conditioning unit is around 12-15 years, if proper care is taken and maintenance is ensured.
- It’s also important that the installation is done properly and that no loopholes are left during the installation process, otherwise the system may need frequent repairs.
Hence, a centralized air conditioning unit is definitely an investment, but pays off tremendously in the long run by saving on unnecessary electricity wastage or excess energy consumption and also ensures smooth services and operations for the users.
