To modify an air conditioner to work like a refrigerator, you would need to make some significant changes to the system. Both air conditioners and refrigerators operate on the same basic principle of heat transfer, but they have different design and functionality to suit their intended purposes. Here are the main components you would need to replace or modify in an air conditioner to make it work like a refrigerator:
Expansion Device: The expansion device in an air conditioner is typically an expansion valve or an orifice. In a refrigerator, you would need to replace this with a capillary tube, which is a smaller and simpler expansion device suitable for lower cooling capacities.
Evaporator Size: The evaporator in an air conditioner is designed to handle larger air volumes and remove heat from the indoor air. In a refrigerator, the evaporator needs to be appropriately sized to cool a smaller, confined space.
Condenser Size: Similarly, the condenser in an air conditioner is designed to dissipate heat from a larger amount of refrigerant. In a refrigerator, the condenser size should be adjusted to match the cooling requirements of the confined space.
Thermostat Control: The thermostat in an air conditioner is designed to sense the indoor air temperature and control the cooling accordingly. In a refrigerator, the thermostat would need to be adjusted to maintain a constant low temperature suitable for food storage.
Refrigerant Type: Air conditioners and refrigerators often use different types of refrigerants. You would need to replace the refrigerant in the air conditioner with one suitable for lower temperature ranges used in refrigeration systems.
Air Handling: Air conditioners are designed to distribute cooled air throughout the room, while refrigerators have a closed insulated compartment. You would need to modify the air handling system of the air conditioner to work as a closed cooling compartment.
Airflow: Air conditioners have strong airflow for better cooling, but refrigerators don't require such high airflow. You may need to modify the fan or blower system to provide the appropriate amount of airflow for refrigeration purposes.
Cabinet Design: Refrigerators have a compact, insulated cabinet design to maintain low temperatures efficiently. You may need to modify the cabinet of the air conditioner to create a sealed and insulated compartment.
It's important to note that modifying an air conditioner to work as a refrigerator is a complex task and requires a deep understanding of refrigeration systems and engineering principles. It may not be a practical or cost-effective option. It's usually more feasible to purchase a refrigerator designed for residential use, as they are specifically designed for efficient cooling and food storage.