
A Direct Expansion (DX) system is an air conditioning system where refrigerant directly cools the air in the evaporator. The refrigerant expands, absorbs heat, and evaporates without a secondary chilled‑water loop, making DX systems efficient and common in residential and light‑commercial applications.
/dəˈrɛkt ɪkˈspænʃən ˈsɪstəm/
A Direct Expansion (DX) system is an air conditioning system where refrigerant directly cools the air in the evaporator. The refrigerant expands, absorbs heat, and evaporates without a secondary chilled‑water loop, making DX systems efficient and common in residential and light‑commercial applications.
What is a DX system in HVAC?
It’s a system where refrigerant cools air directly in the evaporator, without chilled water.
Source: The Cooling Company

DX systems cool air directly in the evaporator coil.
Most homes use DX systems: the indoor coil cools air directly while the outdoor unit rejects heat.
Keep coils clean and refrigerant charge correct to maintain DX efficiency and reliability.
“Keep coils clean and refrigerant charge correct to maintain DX efficiency and reliability.”
DX systems differ from chilled‑water systems because the refrigerant cools air directly instead of a secondary fluid.
Are DX systems more efficient than chilled water systems?
For small to medium spaces, yes. Chilled water is more common in large buildings.
Do DX systems use refrigerant?
Yes. Refrigerant is the direct cooling medium in the evaporator.
Can DX systems be used in large buildings?
They can, but chilled‑water systems are often preferred for very large loads.
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