How do extremely high outdoor temperatures affect air conditioning systems?

Extremely high outdoor temperatures can significantly impact the efficiency of air conditioning systems. When the outdoor temperature rises, the heat exchange process becomes less effective. Air conditioning systems work by transferring heat from the indoor air to the outdoor environment. As the outdoor temperature increases, the condenser—the component responsible for releasing heat—faces higher surrounding temperatures.

This means that the refrigerant cannot release heat as effectively as it would under cooler conditions. Consequently, the system has to work harder to achieve the desired indoor temperature, leading to increased energy consumption and reduced overall system efficiency. In extreme heat, the system may struggle to cool the indoor space, causing longer run times and potential overheating issues. This is why recognizing the effects of high outdoor temperatures is crucial for both system performance and energy management.