The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
A central air conditioning system makes use of ductwork to deliver cool air to all rooms. An air handler with an air filter that collects particles regulates airflow.
The unit is typically situated in an enclosure that is outside the house. The unit’s quiet operation can enhance your comfort, as it will keep the constant hum and whirrr of window AC units from disrupting indoor peace.
Energy Efficiency
While it’s true that central air conditioners consume more energy to operate than a wall-mounted unit, the truth is that today’s systems are much more efficient than those in the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was removed in 2006 and replaced by 410A. Manufacturers are also continuously creating new technologies that make their systems more efficient and use less energy.
Unlike window AC units that are designed to cool just the room in which they are installed central AC systems can evenly distribute cool air throughout your entire home by using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat tells you that the air handler must begin cycling. The air handler pulls warm air from your living spaces and then passes it over the evaporator coil, which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into gas. The compressor then increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. As it pumps it pushes the heat away from the evaporator coil back into the home, where it’s cooled and distributed throughout your ductwork.
Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes down to regulating temperatures in large spaces. They are able to continuously cool rooms that are farther from one another than one wall AC unit can, and they offer better energy efficiency overall.
Depending on how well your home is sealed and insulated, and the layout of your home, you might find that a mini-split will save you even more energy than central air conditioning, though. Mini-splits operate differently than central AC however they’re usually more efficient because they do not rely on ductwork which can leak and result in the system working too hard in order to cool your home to the desired temperature. Contact an HVAC professional 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 best solution for your requirements.
Convenience
In addition to the energy efficiency and comfort central air conditioning systems offer many benefits. These systems are able to cool the entire house or office with just one unit and do not require ducts like window units do. They are also usually equipped with high-quality air filters that can help keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is especially helpful for those suffering from allergies or respiratory issues.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. It is ideal for homes that already have ductwork and need a powerful cooling solution. These systems can supply cool air to every room through a single vent. They can also be used with home zone control, which allows you to manage the cooling requirements in different parts of the house with the help of a smart thermostat.
This is the most popular AC system. It works similarly as furnaces. Central air conditioners are comprised of a large outdoor unit that blows warm air and a smaller indoor unit that pulls hot or cold air out of the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through lines from the air handler and absorbs heat during the process. The cooled air is pushed back into air handler before being circulated to other rooms through the ductwork.
A central air conditioning system can also reduce humidity. This is particularly important in our humid climate. The air handler is able to remove excess moisture and then let it out to stop the growth of mold and mildew in your ductwork.
It’s time to upgrade your cooling system if older than 15 years. A new, high-quality AC system will help you save money on energy bills and also help safeguard the integrity of the ductwork in your home. To learn more about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, call us. We can assist you in selecting the right air conditioner for your budget and requirements.
Maintenance
Just like any other major appliance air conditioner, your air conditioner requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be performed by the homeowner while others are best left to licensed experts. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance contract that usually comes with discounts on repairs and advantages such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser unit that is dirty can restrict air flow, reduce system efficiency and drive up the cost of energy. Before you begin cleaning, switch off the compressor unit to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating. Then using a garden hose, gently clean the coil fins and fan blades to get rid of dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris. After cleaning the blades, wipe them clean using a paper towel and spray for sanitation. You should also straighten any bent fins that might be caused by winds, or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner has been in use for more than 10 years, you should engage a professional to check the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil with the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines are filled with refrigerant and any corrosion or cracks could result in leaks, which could result in a decrease in cooling and higher costs for utility.
Air Filter
Change your air filter frequently to keep it clean and enhance the performance of your air conditioning system. The frequency varies depending on how often the AC runs, the number of furry family members, and the amount of dust your home collects. In general, a standard air filter lasts for approximately two weeks or a month in the cool season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for condensation is clogged with mold, algae or snails, it can’t flush away the water collected by your evaporator coil during cooling. This could result in flooding of your home, water damage, and the development of mildew and mold. The float switch in your indoor coil will shut off the system if it detects a blocked drain line.