The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
A central air conditioning system makes use of ductwork to deliver cool air to every room. The flow of air is controlled by an air handler that has a filter that is used to remove particulates.
The unit is typically located in an enclosure that is outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation will increase your comfort as it will keep the constant hum and whirr of window AC units from disrupting indoor peace.
Energy Efficiency
Although central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units, modern systems are more efficient than ones used in the past. The ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was eliminated in 2006 and replaced by 410A. Manufacturers are continually developing new technologies to help their systems use less energy.
Central AC systems, unlike window AC units that are designed to cool only the room in which they’re placed they can spread cool air evenly throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signalizes the air handler to start cycling on. The air handler draws warm air from your living space and then it is pushed through the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes refrigerant to absorb energy, and then transform into gas. This refrigerant is then pumped to the outdoor unit, where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. As it pumps, the heat is pushed off the evaporator and back into your home, where it will be distributed and cooled through the ductwork.
The reality is that central AC systems are the most efficient option in controlling the temperature of large areas. They can cool rooms that are further from one AC unit and also have higher energy efficiency.
Depending on how well your home is well-insulated and sealed as well as its layout it is possible that a mini-split unit can save you even more energy than central air conditioners, though. Mini-splits are not the same as central ACs, however they can be more efficient, as they don’t use ductwork. Ductwork leaks can cause the system overwork to cool your home to the desired temperature. Talk to an HVAC expert from your local Dallas heating company if want to know more about energy-efficient options for cooling your home. They can help you find the ideal solution for your requirements.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems aren’t only efficient and comfortable, but they also offer a great amount of convenience. They can cool your entire business or home with one unit and don’t require ducts as window units do. They are also usually equipped with top-quality air filters that can help keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those who suffer from respiratory issues or allergies.
Central AC is one of the most popular kinds of cooling systems and for good reason. It is ideal for homes that already have ductwork and need a powerful cooling solution. These systems are able to provide cool air to every room with just one vent. They can also be paired with home zoning, which allows you to control your cooling needs in different areas of the home using the help of a smart thermostat.
This is the most commonly used AC system. It functions in a similar way as a furnace. Central air conditioners include a large outdoor unit that blows warm air and a smaller indoor unit that pulls cold or hot air out of the ductwork. The refrigerant is circulated through the lines of the air handler, and it absorbs heat as it goes through the process. The cooled air is then pushed back to the air handler in the home and circulated via the ductwork into other rooms.
Another benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it can also help to reduce humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler will remove excess moisture from your ductwork and then release it to the outside. This will help to stop mold and mildew from growing.
If your cooling system is approaching 15 years in age, it’s time to consider replacing it with a new and more efficient model. A new, high-end AC system will allow you to save money on energy bills and also protect the integrity of your ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can help you select the right air conditioner for your budget and needs.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, just like any other major appliance, requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Certain maintenance tasks that are routine can be completed by the homeowner, while others are best left to licensed experts. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign to a maintenance contract, which often comes with discounts on repairs as well as benefits such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A dirty condenser unit will limit air flow, reduce system efficiency, and increase the cost of energy. Before you begin cleaning, turn off the compressor unit to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating. Then with a garden hose, gently clean the coil fins and fan blades to get rid of dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris. After cleaning, wipe the blades with a paper towel and spray for sanitation. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins that may result from wind, or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner has been running for more than 10 years, you must engage a professional to check the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil and the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines carry refrigerant, and any cracks or rust could cause leaks, which can result in low cooling and costly utility bills.
Air Filter
To increase the efficiency of your AC system, you should change your air filter regularly. The frequency of changing your air filter is contingent on how often you use the AC, how many pets are in the house and the amount of dust is collected. A typical air filter will last between two weeks and one month during the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the line that drains condensation is blocked by algae, mold or snails the line won’t flush out the water that is collected by your evaporator coil in cooling. This can result in a flood-prone home, water damage, and the growth of mildew and mold. To avoid this the float switch near the indoor evaporator will stop the system when it detects that the drain line is blocked.