The air conditioner is turned on when the thermostat senses the air temperature is higher than the set point and sends a signal to the air conditioning system to begin cooling.
This process involves several key steps and components working together:
- Thermostat Detection: The thermostat constantly monitors the ambient air temperature.
- Set Point Comparison: The thermostat compares the detected temperature to the user-defined set point (the desired temperature).
- Signal Transmission: If the ambient temperature is higher than the set point, the thermostat sends an electrical signal. This signal typically activates the air conditioner.
- System Activation: This signal then triggers the air conditioning system, both inside and outside the house, to begin operation. The outdoor unit (containing the compressor and condenser) and the indoor unit (containing the evaporator and air handler) both power on.
- Cooling Cycle: The cooling cycle begins, which includes refrigerant circulating, heat being removed from the indoor air, and cooled air being distributed throughout the home.
Essentially, the thermostat acts as the control center, initiating the cooling process based on temperature readings relative to the desired setting. Different types of thermostats exist (manual, programmable, smart), but they all perform the same core function of triggering the air conditioning system based on temperature.
