CHECK YOUR KNOWLEDGE CONDENSERS

Answer the following questions. You might like to ask your trainer or workplace manager if
you need some assistance. When you have finished, check your answers on pages 3 and 4.
1. What is the purpose of a condenser in a refrigeration/air conditioning system?

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2. List three (3) major types of condensers.

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3. Explain the difference between a remote and a chassis mounted condenser.

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4. Name two (2) types of water cooled condensers.

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5. List three (3) advantages of water cooled condensers.

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6. What problems do non-condensables cause in a system and where do they accumulate
in the system?
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7. Explain the term counter flowing and why it is important in water cooled condensers.

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8. What is the cooling medium used for a forced draft air cooled condenser?

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9. Why must air cooled condensers be kept as clean as possible?

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10. Why are water cooled condensers more efficient at removing heat energy from the
refrigerant?

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Answers
Check your answers here. If you need more information or an explanation about an answer,
talk to your trainer or workplace manager.
1. What is the purpose of a condenser in a refrigeration/air conditioning system?
The condenser rejects the total heat absorbed in the evaporator and the suction line and
the heat generated during compression.
2. List three (3) major types of condensers.
Natural draft (domestic appliances), forced draft, water cooled or evaporative.
3. Explain the difference between a remote and a chassis mounted condenser.

Remote condenser is located separately, usually outside.

Chassis mounted condenser is packaged in the same unit as the compressor.

4. Name two (2) types of water cooled condensers.

Shell and coil, tube in tube or shell and tube.
5. List three (3) advantages of water cooled condensers.

6.

more compact

lower head pressure and power requirements

wide range of applications including small air conditioning systems, high-rise air
conditioning systems and commercial systems.

What problems do non-condensables cause in a system and where do they

accumulate in the system?
Non condensables can increase head pressure which reduces efficiency of the
condenser and they accumulate at the top of the condenser.

7. Explain the term counter flowing and why it is important in water cooled
condensers.
Water flows in the opposite direction of the refrigerant. This gives the highest rate of heat
transfer.
8. What is the cooling medium used for a forced draft air cooled condenser?
The cooling medium for a forced draft air cooled condenser is air.

9. Why must air cooled condensers be kept as clean as possible?

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Air cooled condensers must be kept as clean as possible so the dust and dirt does not
restrict the air flow and stop them from working as well as they should.
10. Why are water cooled condensers more efficient at removing heat energy from the
refrigerant?
Water cooled condensers are more efficient at removing heat because of the
temperature of the entering water and the surface area of contact between the water and
the refrigerant.

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