How does ambient temperature affect the amount of heat an air-cooled condenser can reject?

The correct understanding relates to the fundamental principles of thermodynamics and the efficiency of heat exchange processes in air-cooled condensers. As ambient temperature rises, the ability of the condenser to effectively reject heat diminishes. This occurs because the heat transfer process relies on the temperature difference between the refrigerant inside the condenser and the surrounding air.

When ambient temperatures are high, the temperature gradient becomes smaller, resulting in reduced efficiency of heat exchange. Consequently, the condenser struggles to dissipate heat when surrounding air is warm, leading to decreased heat rejection.

In contrast, lower ambient temperatures enhance the heat rejection capabilities of the condenser, as the greater temperature difference allows for more effective heat transfer. This principle underlines the importance of environmental conditions in the performance of cooling systems.