What occurs in the condenser during the compression cycle?

During the compression cycle, the condenser is where the refrigerant transitions from a gaseous state to a liquid state. This process occurs as the high-pressure, high-temperature gas from the compressor flows into the condenser coils. As the refrigerant gas passes through the condenser, it releases heat to the surrounding environment, typically through a fan or natural air movement.

The release of this heat is crucial because it allows the refrigerant molecules to lose energy, leading to a phase change from a gas to a liquid. This transformation is essential for the refrigeration cycle, as it prepares the refrigerant for the next stage of the cycle, where it will then expand in the evaporator to absorb heat and produce the cooling effect desired in HVAC systems.

Thus, the primary function of the condenser during the compression cycle is to facilitate this phase change, making it a pivotal component in the refrigeration process.