Which component serves to extract moisture from the air in an air conditioning system?

The evaporator coil is the component responsible for extracting moisture from the air in an air conditioning system. When warm air from the living space passes over the cold surface of the evaporator coil, the temperature of the air decreases. As the air cools, its capacity to hold moisture decreases, resulting in condensation. This moisture coalesces and drips into a condensate pan, which is then drained away. This process not only cools the air but also lowers humidity levels, enhancing comfort within the space being conditioned.

In contrast, the other components have distinct functions that do not involve direct moisture extraction. The compressor circulates refrigerant through the system and raises its pressure to facilitate heat transfer. The expansion valve controls the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator, and the condenser coil is responsible for releasing heat absorbed by the refrigerant, allowing it to return to a liquid state. Each component plays a vital role in the overall operation of the air conditioning system, but it is the evaporator coil that specifically addresses moisture removal from the air.