The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems utilize the ductwork system to distribute cooled air in every room. The flow of air is controlled by an air handler which has a filter that is used to remove particulates.
The unit is typically housed in a small enclosure that is outside the home. Its quiet operation improves your comfort by preventing constant noise or whirr of window AC units from disrupting the peace of your home.
Energy Efficiency
While central air conditioners use more energy than wall-mounted units, modern systems are more efficient than ones of the past. The ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was phased out in 2006 and replaced by 410A. Manufacturers are also continually creating new technologies that make their systems more efficient and use less energy.
Contrary to window AC units that are specifically designed to cool the room in which they are installed central AC systems can evenly distribute cool air throughout your home using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signalizes the air handler to begin running. The air handler is able to pull hot air from your home and passes it through the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigeration. The heat contained in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy, and then turn into a gas. The compressor then increases 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’s cooled and distributed throughout your ductwork.
Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes to regulating temperatures in large spaces. They can consistently cool rooms that are farther away than a single wall AC unit could, and they offer better energy efficiency overall.
It could be that, based on the level of insulation and sealing your home is, as well as the layout, a mini-split air conditioner will use less energy than central air cooling. Mini-splits work differently than central AC, but they’re often more efficient since they don’t rely on ductwork, which could leak and result in the system working too hard in order to cool your home to the desired temperature. If you’re interested to learn more about energy-efficient options for cooling your home, you should talk to an HVAC specialist at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They’ll help you select the most efficient solution for your requirements.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems aren’t only efficient and comfortable, they also provide a good amount of convenience. They can cool the entire business or home with one unit, and do not require ducts like window units. They also typically come with high-quality air filters which can help keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those who suffer from respiratory or allergies.
Central AC is one of the most well-known kinds of cooling systems, and with good reason. This is a great option for homes with ductwork that require a cooling solution. These systems can provide cool air to every room through a single vent. They can also be used with home zoning, which permits you to control the cooling requirements in different areas of the home using an intelligent thermostat.
This is the most common AC system. It works in a similar way as a furnace. A central air conditioner has a big outdoor unit that blasts out warm air, and an indoor air handler that pulls in cold or hot air through the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through the lines that connect to the air handler, and it absorbs heat during the process. The cooled air is then returned to the air handler in the home and circulated through the ductwork to other rooms.
Another benefit of central air conditioning is that it may aid in reducing humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler can remove excess moisture from your ductwork and release it to the outside. This helps to prevent mold and mildew from growing.
It’s time to upgrade your cooling system if it is older than 15 years. A new, high quality AC system will help you save money on energy costs as well as safeguard the integrity of your ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can help you choose the right air conditioner for your budget and requirements.
Maintenance
Just like any major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular maintenance to run smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be handled by the homeowner, however, other tasks should be handled by licensed experts. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance contract, which often comes with discounts on repairs and benefits such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser unit that is dirty can limit air flow, reduce system efficiency, and increase the cost of energy. To prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris, turn off the power to your compressor unit prior to you begin cleaning. Then with a garden hose, gently wash the fan blades and coil fins to get rid of dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris. After washing then, use a towel and sanitation spray to wipe and sanitize the fan blades. It is 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 cooling system has been in operation for more than 10 years, you must hire a professional to inspect the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines are filled with refrigerant and any cracks or corrosion can result in leaks, which could result in a decrease in cooling and more expensive costs for utility.
Air Filter
Change your air filter regularly to keep it clean and enhance the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency varies depending on how often your AC runs, the number of furry family members, and how much dust your home collects. A standard air filter should last about two weeks to one month during the cooler season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the line that drains condensation is clogged with algae, mold or snails the line won’t flush out the water that is collected by your evaporator coil in cooling. This can lead to a flooded basement, water damage to your home, and mold and mildew growth. The float switch on your indoor coil will shut off the system if it detects a clogged drain line.