The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning uses ductwork to deliver cooled air to every room. Airflow is regulated by an air handler which has a filter that is used to remove particulates.
The unit is usually placed in a small enclosure outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation will enhance your comfort as it will keep the constant hum and whirrr of window AC units from disrupting your indoor peace.
Energy Efficiency
While it’s true that central air conditioners use more energy to operate than wall-mounted units however, the reality is that modern systems are much more efficient than those in the past. The Ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was eliminated by 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are continually developing new technologies to aid in the use of less energy.
Contrary to window AC units, which are specifically designed to cool only the room they’re mounted in central AC systems are able to evenly distribute cool air throughout your home using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signalizes the air handler to start cycling on. The air handler pulls hot air from your home and then passes it over the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat that’s in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and turn into a gas. The compressor then increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. 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.
Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes to controlling temperatures in large spaces. They can cool rooms that are farther away from a single AC unit and have greater energy efficiency.
Depending on how well your house is well-insulated and sealed and the layout of your home it’s possible that a mini-split unit will save you even more energy than central air conditioners however. Mini-splits function differently than central AC however they’re usually more efficient due to the fact that they don’t rely on ductwork, which can leak and cause the system to work harder to cool your home to the desired temperature. Talk to an HVAC specialist from your local Dallas heating company if you are interested in learning more about energy efficient options for cooling your home. They’ll be able to help you select the right solution for your needs.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems are not only efficient and comfortable, but they also provide a great deal of convenience. These systems can cool the entire office or home in one unit and don’t require vents like window units. These systems are also equipped with high-quality filters that help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those suffering from allergies or respiratory conditions.
Central AC is one of the most well-known kinds of cooling systems, and with good reason. It’s perfect for homes that already have ductwork and need a powerful cooling solution. These systems can deliver cool air to each room from a single vent. They can also be paired with home zoning, which allows you to control your cooling needs in different areas of the home using an intelligent thermostat.
This is the most common AC system. It functions in a similar fashion similar to a furnace. A central air conditioner has an outdoor unit that blows warm air, and a smaller indoor air handler that draws in cold or hot air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped out of the air handler through lines, taking in heat. The cooled air is pushed back to the air handler inside the home and circulated through the ductwork to other rooms.
Central air conditioning systems can also help reduce humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler can remove excess moisture and then release it to the outside to stop the growth of mildew and mold within your ductwork.
If your current cooling system is approaching 15 years in age, it’s time to consider replacing it with a brand new and more efficient model. A new, high-end AC system will help you reduce your energy bills and also protect the integrity of your ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can help you choose the best air conditioner to meet your budget and requirements.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, as any other major appliance requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be handled by the homeowner, while other chores should be left to qualified professionals. Signing an agreement for maintenance is the best method to keep on the top of AC problems. These contracts often include discounts on repairs and other advantages, like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser that is dirty can reduce air flow, decrease the efficiency of your system and increase energy costs. To avoid the build-up of dirt and debris, turn off the power supply to your compressor unit before you begin cleaning. Then using a garden hose, gently clean the fan blades and coil fins to remove dirt leaves, twigs, twigs and other debris. After washing using a paper towel and a spray of sanitation to wipe and sanitize the fan blades. Also, straighten any bent fins that could have been caused by winds, or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air cooling system has been in operation for more than 10 years, it is recommended to 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 are filled with refrigerant and any corrosion or cracks could lead to leaks, which could result in a decrease in cooling and more expensive costs for utility.
Air Filter
Change your air filter regularly to ensure it is clean and improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter will depend on the frequency you run the AC, how many furry family members are in the home, and how much dust is collected. A standard air filter should 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, snails, or bugs it won’t be able to flush out the water that’s collected by your evaporator unit during cooling. This can cause a flooded home, water damage, and the growth of mildew and mold. To avoid this, the float switch located close to your indoor evaporator coil will stop the system when it detects that the drain line is blocked.