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

The primary function of the condenser in a refrigeration system is to condense vapor refrigerant into liquid. This process occurs after the refrigerant has absorbed heat from the interior space being cooled, turning from a liquid into a gas in the evaporator. The gaseous refrigerant then flows into the condenser, where it releases this absorbed heat to the environment, typically via airflow or water flow, which cools the refrigerant down.

As the refrigerant loses heat, it changes from a low-pressure gas to a high-pressure liquid. This phase change is crucial for the continuous operation of the refrigeration cycle, allowing the system to repeat the process of cooling effectively. The efficiency of the heat exchange during condensation directly influences the overall performance and efficiency of the refrigeration system, making this function fundamental to its operation.