CSLB C-20 HVAC ContractorCooling and RefrigerationEasy
What is the primary function of the condenser coil in a residential split-system air-conditioning system?
- ATo meter the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator coil
- BTo reject heat absorbed by the refrigerant, condensing it from a high-pressure vapor into a high-pressure liquid
- CTo superheat the refrigerant vapor before compression
- DTo reduce the pressure of refrigerant vapor before it enters the compressor
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. To reject heat absorbed by the refrigerant, condensing it from a high-pressure vapor into a high-pressure liquid
The condenser is a heat-rejection device: hot, high-pressure refrigerant vapor from the compressor gives up heat to outdoor air, causing it to condense into a high-pressure liquid before reaching the metering device.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Metering is done by the TXV or orifice, not the condenser.
- C. Superheating occurs in the evaporator/suction line, not the condenser.
- D. Pressure reduction happens at the metering device, not the condenser.
Condenser Function
The condenser coil rejects heat from hot compressed refrigerant vapor to outdoor air, condensing it into a high-pressure liquid.
- Located outdoors on split systems
- Refrigerant enters as hot vapor, leaves as subcooled liquid
- Heat rejection = evaporator heat absorbed + compressor work
Memory trick: Condenser dumps the heat outside.