Air Conditioning Systems Phoenix

Air conditioners are a blessing in hot climates. Not only do they cool the air, but many dehumidify and filter the air as well. The two most common types of air conditioning systems for the home are evaporative and refrigerated. Both can cool just a single room or an entire house; most types are controlled by a thermostat.

Evaporative air conditioners also called swamp coolers, work well in dry desert regions. Refrigerated units, though more expensive to purchase than evaporative ones, are the only way to cool the air in other than desert climates. Included in the category of refrigerated units are both room air conditioners, fitted into a wall or window, and central air conditioning. Another type of refrigerated system, a heat pump, cools and heats a house.

The energy cost of most air conditioning systems is high. For this reason, it's important that your system be properly maintained and, if necessary, serviced by a professional.

In this and in following articles we will help you become familiar with the different air conditioning systems. To ensure long, reliable operation, be sure to have a professional check your air conditioning sytem regularly.

Evaporative Air Conditioner

In hot dry areas, evaporative air conditioners are the most efficient way to cool a home. The unit is mounted in full sun on the roof or beside the house.

Inside the unit, water is sprayed on porous, absorbent blankets. Hot outside air is pulled through the blankets by a blower causes the water to evaporate, cooling the air. The cool air then enters the house, forcing stale air out through open windows.

With regular maintenance, you expect few problems. At the beginning of each cooling season, and more often if you see a mineral buildup from the evaporated water, thoroughly clean the unit, oil the pump and blower, and replace the blankets. Also, check and adjust the blower belt; if it's cracked or worn, replace it as for a belt in a warm-air furnace.