How Air Conditioner Systems Work
Air conditioners work in three stages, facilitated by parts known as the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator. First, a special gaseous fluid arrives at the compressor where it is compressed into a dense, higher-temperature fluid. This fluid is then sent to the condenser, which helps dissipate the temperature generated in the compressor and also compress the gaseous fluid into a high-pressure liquid form.
From there, the liquid moves into the evaporator, where its pressure drops and it evaporates back into a gas. Thermal energy is exchanged with the surrounding air, resulting in a cooling effect. The gas finally goes back to the compressor to repeat the cycle, and a fan circulates indoor air so that all of the warm air in a room comes into contact with the evaporator.
The Role of Float Switches
The process described (in a nutshell) above results a slow buildup of liquid condensate, due to the ambient moisture pulled from the air. Air conditioner systems are designed so that the condensate accumulates in a contained drain pan, which empties outside of the system (typically through simple gravity). However algae, dust, and other contaminants can build up and prevent this proper draining.
A/C Float Switches from SMD Fluid Controls
SMD Fluid Controls specializes in the design and manufacture of float switches for a huge variety of applications, including those involving HVAC, A/C, and condensate draining. For example, the FS31 vertical float switch made from durable, economical polypropylene and designed especially for condensate drain pans. Whether you need a few units or a few hundred, SMD Fluid Controls can help with off-the-shelf solutions like the FS31 or custom designed solutions to fit specialty needs.