In HVAC systems, which device is used to reject latent heat from the refrigerant?

In HVAC systems, which device is used to reject latent heat from the refrigerant?

• A. Evaporator
• B. Compressor
• C. Receiver Drier
• D. Condenser

Answer: (D)

Latent heat is the energy released when a refrigerant changes from vapor to liquid. In the condenser, the hot, high‑pressure refrigerant vapor is cooled and condensed back into a liquid. During this condensation, latent heat is released to the surrounding air or cooling water, which is effectively rejecting heat from the system. The evaporator does the opposite, absorbing latent heat as the refrigerant changes from liquid to vapor to pick up heat from the indoor air. The receiver-drier stores liquid refrigerant and removes moisture, and the compressor increases pressure and temperature; neither primarily rejects latent heat.

Latent heat is the energy released when a refrigerant changes from vapor to liquid. In the condenser, the hot, high‑pressure refrigerant vapor is cooled and condensed back into a liquid. During this condensation, latent heat is released to the surrounding air or cooling water, which is effectively rejecting heat from the system. The evaporator does the opposite, absorbing latent heat as the refrigerant changes from liquid to vapor to pick up heat from the indoor air. The receiver-drier stores liquid refrigerant and removes moisture, and the compressor increases pressure and temperature; neither primarily rejects latent heat.