The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems use the ductwork system to distribute cooled air throughout the rooms. An air handler with a filter that captures particulates regulates the flow of air.
The unit is typically housed in a small enclosure outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation will increase your comfort as it will stop 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 do, modern systems are more efficient than the ones of the past. The ozone-depleting refrigerant R22 was phased out in 2006 and replaced with an environmentally friendly product known as 410A and manufacturers are constantly developing new technologies that help their systems consume less energy.
Central AC systems, unlike window AC units that are designed to cool only the room in which they’re installed can spread cool air evenly throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat signalizes the air handler to begin cycling on. The air handler draws warm air from your living space, and it passes over the evaporator coil, which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into a gas. The compressor then raises the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. As it pumps it, it carries the heat away from the evaporator coil and back into the home where it is cooled before being distributed throughout your ductwork.
The truth is that central AC systems are the most efficient choice in regulating the temperature of large areas. They can cool rooms that are farther away from a single AC unit, and they have better energy efficiency.
Depending on how well your home is insulated and sealed, and the layout of your home it’s possible that a mini-split system can save you even more energy than a central air conditioner, though. Mini-splits operate differently than central AC however they’re usually more efficient due to the fact that they do not rely on ductwork which could leak and cause the system to over-work to keep your home at the desired temperature. Talk to an HVAC specialist from your local Dallas heating company if you want to know more about energy-efficient options for cooling your home. They’ll be able to assist you select the most efficient solution for your specific needs.
Convenience
In addition to comfort and energy efficiency, central air conditioning systems provide lots of convenience. These systems are able to cool an entire home 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 which can help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those suffering from allergies or respiratory issues.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and for good reason. It’s ideal for homes that already have ductwork and require a reliable cooling solution. These systems can provide cool air to every room through a single vent. They can also be paired with home zone control, which allows you to regulate your cooling requirements in various areas of your home with an intelligent thermostat.
This is the most popular AC system. It functions similarly to furnaces. 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 pumped out of the air handler via lines, taking in heat. The cooled air is returned 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 crucial in our humid climate. The air handler is able to remove excess moisture and release it outside which prevents the growth of mold and mildew within your ductwork.
If your cooling system is nearing 15 years old it’s time to consider replacing it with a new and more efficient model. A new, top-quality AC system will help you save money on energy bills and will help protect the integrity of your home’s ductwork. To learn more about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, contact us. We can help you select the right air conditioner to meet your budget and needs.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, like every other major appliance requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Certain maintenance tasks that are routine can be completed by the homeowner, while others are best left to licensed professionals. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance agreement, which often comes with discounts on repairs and benefits such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser that is dirty will decrease air flow, decrease the efficiency of your system and increase energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, shut off your compressor unit to avoid dirt and debris from accumulating. Then using a garden hose, gently wash the coil fins and fan blades to get rid of dirt leaves, twigs, twigs and other debris. After washing then, use a towel and a spray of sanitation to clean and disinfect the fan blades. It’s also an excellent idea to straighten out any noticeable bent fins, which could be caused by wind or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, it is recommended to have a professional inspect the line sets, the copper tubes connecting the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are filled with refrigerant and any corrosion or cracks can lead to leaks, which can result in inadequate cooling and higher costs for utility.
Air Filter
Change your air filter regularly to ensure that it is clean and improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter depends on the frequency you run the AC, how many pets are living in your home and the amount of dust accumulates. A standard air filter should last about two weeks to one month during the cooler season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for your condensation is blocked by algae, mold, or bugs, the water collected on the evaporator coil won’t be able to flush away. This could result in flooding of your home, water damage, and the development of mildew and mold. To avoid this the float switch near your indoor evaporator coil will stop the system when it detects that the drain line has become blocked.