The outside condenser coil, also known as the condenser unit, is a part of an air conditioning system that releases heat from the refrigerant absorbed from within the property. The heat exchange generates cool air which cycles back through the HVAC system. The condenser coil is made up of a network of (mainly copper) tubes that pass through aluminum strips known as fins. As the refrigerant flows through the condenser coil, it releases heat into the atmosphere outside, forcing the refrigerant to condense back into a liquid. The condensed refrigerant is pumped back to the evaporator coil to repeat the cooling cycle.
Without a properly functioning condenser coil, the system will be unable to meet cooling demands or maintain suitable inside temperatures. Outdoor coils also serve to improve the life of the HVAC system by keeping the refrigerant from getting too hot or too cold.
Dirty condenser coils can cause issues. For example, if the coils are clogged with dirt or debris, they cannot release heat into the outdoor air, forcing the air conditioner to work harder and longer to cool the home. This can result in lowered comfort, higher electric bills, and an increased chance of an early breakdown.