On hot summer days, many seek to provide a comfortable atmosphere in their homes and offices. One of the most popular ways to deal with the heat is to use an air conditioner. But it is important to study the rules for operating the device so that it lasts a long time. It is worth figuring out whether it is possible to open windows when the air conditioner is on, or if this will disrupt its operation.
How air conditioning works - a brief description of the principle of operation
Air conditioner is a device designed for cooling, heating, ventilation and dehumidification of indoor air. It works on the principle of the thermodynamic cycle, which allows heat to be transferred from one place to another. The table describes the characteristics, the principle of operation of its main elements.
| Element | Characteristic |
| Compressor | The air conditioner contains an electric compressor, which is the main element of the system. It creates high pressure, compresses the working refrigerant (usually freon) into a gaseous state. |
| Capacitor | After passing through the compressor, the hot gaseous refrigerant enters the condenser. Here it transfers its heat to the environment. As a result, the gaseous refrigerant condenses and turns into a liquid. |
| Evaporator | The liquid refrigerant passes through an evaporator where it is depressurized and turns back into a gas. At this time, ambient air is supplied to the evaporator by a fan and passes through special lamellas. The refrigerant absorbs heat and cools the room. |
| expansion valve | After passing through the evaporator, the gaseous refrigerant passes through an expansion valve that controls its flow. Here the pressure of the refrigerant is reduced and it is ready to pass through the compressor again. |
| Fan | The airflow is generated by a fan that drives the ambient air and directs it through the evaporator and condenser. |
When the air conditioner is turned on, the refrigerant circulates, which cyclically changes its state from gaseous to liquid and vice versa. This allows you to transfer heat from the room to the environment, providing cooling and dehumidification of the air inside the house.
If necessary, the unit can also perform a heating function. For this, a reverse cycle of operation is used when the device is operating in heat pump mode.
In this case, the compressor compresses the refrigerant. It then passes through a condenser. Here, the refrigerant gives off heat to the environment, raising its temperature. After that, it passes hot through the expansion valve and evaporator, where it absorbs heat from the environment. Cold air starts to heat up.
When the air conditioner is on, it also ventilates, circulating fresh air. This is achieved with a fan. It provides air movement, carries it through filters to remove dust and other contaminants.
The operation of the device is controlled by a thermostat that regulates the temperature in the room. A person can set the necessary temperature indicators. When the set temperature is reached, the thermostat switches off the compressor and fan for a while.
Refrigerants are usually fluorinated hydrocarbons such as freons. However, some types of CFCs can be harmful to the environment because they contribute to the destruction of the ozone layer. In this regard, in recent years, there has been an active transition to environmentally safer and more energy-efficient alternatives.
What happens if you open a window while the air conditioner is on?
Opening a window while the air conditioner is on may cause the system to operate inefficiently and consume more power. Causes:
- Reverse airflow. The included air conditioner works on the principle of air circulation. If you open the window, a person will create a reverse flow of air coming from outside. This disrupts the normal operation of the turned on device. This can result in warm air mixing with cooled or heated air. Open windows reduce the efficiency of the unit.
- Loss of cold or heat. If you open the window when the air conditioner is turned on, a person allows the penetration of heat from the street while this electric machine is operating in cooling mode. The same thing happens when heated. In this case, an open window allows heat to escape from the house. As a result, the included air conditioner should work more intensively. He needs to compensate for the loss of heat or cold, which leads to increased energy consumption and higher energy bills.
- Loss of drying effect. The included air conditioner also performs the function of drying, removing excess moisture. If you open the window, moisture from the outside enters the room, which may reduce the effectiveness of the dehumidifying function of the turned on device.
- System load. If the window is open, there is a constant flow of air from the outside. This can create an additional load on the fan, compressor. All elements of the device will wear out faster, which will reduce its service life. As a result, the equipment may break down.
If you open the window while the air conditioner is running, a person risks reducing the efficiency of the system and increasing energy consumption. It is better to close windows and doors so that there is no draft. This will ensure more efficient operation of equipment, maintaining comfortable conditions.
So is it possible or not to open the window?
The decision on whether to turn on the air conditioner with the windows open in the room or not is made by the owner of the house or office. But experts advise considering several factors:
- Purpose of use. If the device is used for cooling or maintaining a certain temperature, then it is not recommended to open the window. This will allow heat to penetrate from the street, which will complicate the operation of the air conditioner.
- external conditions. If it is very hot or humid outside, do not open the windows either. This will cause heat or moisture to penetrate. In such cases, closing the window is recommended to maintain comfortable conditions.
- Airing. If it is necessary to provide air circulation, opening a window may be justified, especially if the device is not equipped with a ventilation system. In this case, you can open the window for a short time to ventilate the room. But it is better to do this not with the air conditioner on.
- Energy saving. If you open the window while the device is turned on, this may lead to increased energy consumption. If a person wants to save energy, it is recommended to close the window to keep the cooled or heated air inside the room.
Having figured out why it is impossible to turn on the air conditioner when the windows are open, the person himself must decide whether to open the window or not. It all depends on the specific needs, external conditions, the purpose of using the technology. If you want to get the most out of your appliances, experts recommend closing your windows.
Reading: Installation of a basket for an air conditioner on the facade
Have you ever opened a window while the air conditioner was on? Why? If you have personal experience, point of view on this topic or questions, write a comment below. Share the article with your friends, do not forget to bookmark it.