What is the primary function of the condenser in a refrigeration system?

The primary function of the condenser in a refrigeration system is to reject heat from the system. In the refrigeration cycle, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the space that needs cooling, typically inside a building or appliance, as it evaporates in the evaporator. The vaporized refrigerant then travels to the condenser, where it releases the absorbed heat to the outside environment.

This process occurs as the refrigerant cools and condenses back into a liquid state. The efficient rejection of heat in the condenser is critical for maintaining the overall efficiency of the refrigeration cycle, ensuring that the refrigerant can circulate effectively and continue to absorb heat from the interior space. By discharging heat out of the system, the condenser helps to maintain the desired low temperatures within the refrigeration area.

The function of absorbing heat pertains to components such as the evaporator, while expansion is associated with the expansion valve. The term "store" does not reflect the primary operational role of any component in the refrigeration cycle, as the system operates continuously without the need for refrigerant storage within the main components during normal operation.