A refrigerator is a common household appliance that is used to keep food and drinks fresh by maintaining a cool temperature inside the fridge. But have you ever wondered how it works? In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the inner workings of a refrigerator and understand the different components that make it possible to keep our food fresh.
The Cooling System
The cooling system is the most important component of a refrigerator. It is responsible for maintaining the cool temperature inside the fridge. There are two main types of cooling systems used in refrigerators: compression cooling and absorption cooling.Compression Cooling
The most common type of cooling system used in modern refrigerators is compression cooling. It works by compressing a refrigerant, such as Freon, and then releasing it to absorb heat. The refrigerant is then compressed again and the process repeats.
The compression cooling system in a refrigerator consists of four main components: the compressor, the condenser, the evaporator, and the expansion valve.
- The compressor is responsible for compressing the refrigerant. As it is compressed, it becomes hot and is then sent to the condenser.
- The condenser is responsible for releasing the heat absorbed by the refrigerant. It releases the heat to the outside of the fridge, where it is dissipated into the air.
- The evaporator is responsible for absorbing heat from inside the fridge. As the refrigerant passes through the evaporator, it absorbs the heat, causing it to evaporate.
- The expansion valve regulates the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator. It allows only the right amount of refrigerant to enter the evaporator, ensuring that the fridge maintains the correct temperature.
Absorption Cooling
The other type of cooling system used in refrigerators is absorption cooling. It works by absorbing a refrigerant, such as ammonia, into a solution, and then releasing it to absorb heat. The process is then repeated.
Absorption cooling is not as common as compression cooling and is usually found in larger refrigeration units, such as commercial refrigerators.
The Insulation
The insulation in a refrigerator is responsible for keeping the cold air inside and preventing warm air from entering. Without insulation, the refrigerant would have to work harder to maintain the cool temperature, resulting in higher energy consumption.
The insulation in a refrigerator is usually made of foam and is found in the walls, door, and even in the shelves of the fridge.
The Seals
The seals around the door of a refrigerator are responsible for preventing warm air from entering the fridge and cold air from escaping. If the seals are not tight, the refrigerant will have to work harder to maintain the cool temperature, resulting in higher energy consumption.
It is important to check the seals regularly and replace them if they are worn or damaged.
The Thermostat
The thermostat is responsible for maintaining the correct temperature inside the refrigerator. It is a device that senses the temperature inside the fridge and turns the compressor on and off as needed to maintain the desired temperature.
The thermostat is usually located near the back of the fridge, and it can be adjusted to set the desired temperature. It is important to set the thermostat to the correct temperature to ensure that the food and drinks inside thefridge are being stored at a safe temperature. Generally, the recommended temperature for a refrigerator is between 37-40 degrees Fahrenheit (3-4 degrees Celsius).
The thermostat works by using a bimetallic strip that expands or contracts based on the temperature. The strip is connected to a switch that turns the compressor on or off. As the temperature inside the fridge increases, the bimetallic strip expands and pushes the switch to turn the compressor off. As the temperature inside the fridge decreases, the strip contracts and pushes the switch to turn the compressor on.
The Evaporator and Condenser Coils
The evaporator coils are located inside the fridge, usually behind the back panel. The coils work by absorbing heat from the inside of the fridge and transferring it outside. The refrigerant, which is a fluid that is used to transfer heat, is circulated through the coils by the compressor.
The evaporator coils are responsible for removing heat from the inside of the fridge, which causes the refrigerant to turn from a liquid to a gas. This process cools the air inside the fridge.
The condenser coils are located outside the fridge, usually at the back or bottom of the unit. The coils work by releasing the heat absorbed by the evaporator coils to the outside. The refrigerant, which is now in a gaseous state, is passed through the condenser coils where it gives off heat and turns back into a liquid.
The Compressor
The compressor is the heart of the refrigerator and is responsible for pumping the refrigerant through the system. It is located at the back of the fridge and is usually the most energy-consuming component of the refrigerator.
The compressor works by compressing the refrigerant gas and pumping it through the evaporator and condenser coils. This process causes the refrigerant to absorb and release heat, which in turn cools the air inside the fridge.
Conclusion
A refrigerator is a complex machine that uses several different components to cool the air inside the unit. The compressor, evaporator coils, condenser coils, and thermostat all work together to maintain the desired temperature inside the fridge. Understanding how these components work can help you troubleshoot any issues that may arise with your refrigerator and keep your food and drinks fresh.
