The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning uses ductwork to deliver cooled air to each room. Airflow is regulated by an air handler which features a filter to capture particles.
The unit is usually placed in a small enclosure that is outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation will increase your comfort as it will prevent the constant hum and whirr of window AC units from disrupting indoor peace.
Energy Efficiency
Central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units, today’s systems are more efficient than ones of the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was phased out in 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are continuously creating new technologies to aid in the use of less energy.
Unlike window AC units specifically designed to cool 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 begin running. The air handler draws hot air from your home, then passes it over the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat contained in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and turn into a gas. This refrigerant is then pumped to the outdoor unit which is where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. As it pumps, the heat is pushed away from the evaporator, and then returned to your home, where it can be cooled and distributed through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes to controlling the temperature in large areas. They can consistently cool rooms that are farther apart than a single wall AC unit could, and they offer better energy efficiency overall.
It could be that, based on how well insulated and sealed your home is, as well as the layout, a mini-split air conditioner will save you more energy than central air conditioning. Mini-splits are different from central ACs, but they can be more efficient, as they don’t require the ductwork. Ductwork leaks and could make the system overwork in order to cool your home to the desired temperature. If you’re interested in finding out more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, speak to an HVAC specialist at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They’ll be able to help you select the right solution for your particular needs.
Convenience
In addition to energy efficiency and comfort central air conditioning systems provide lots of convenience. They can cool the entire house or office with just one unit, and do not require ducts like window units do. They’re also generally equipped with high-quality air filters which can help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those who suffer from allergies or respiratory conditions.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. This is a great option for homes with ductwork that require an effective cooling solution. These systems can provide cool air to every room through a single vent. They can also be used with home zoning, which allows you to manage your cooling needs in different parts of the house with an intelligent thermostat.
This is the most popular AC system. It functions in a similar way to furnaces. A central air conditioner has an outdoor unit that blows warm air, and an indoor air handler that pulls in hot or cold air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through the lines that connect to the air handler and absorbs heat as it goes through the process. The cooled air is pushed back to the air handler inside the home and circulated through the ductwork into other rooms.
Another benefit of central air conditioning is that it can help to reduce humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler can remove excess moisture and then release it outside which prevents the growth of mold and mildew within your ductwork.
It’s time to replace your cooling system if older than 15 years. A new, high quality AC system will help you save money on energy costs as well as protect the integrity of your ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can assist you in selecting the best air conditioner for your budget and needs.
Maintenance
Just like every major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular maintenance to run smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be completed by homeowners, while others are best left to certified professionals. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance contract that usually comes with discounts on repairs as well as perks 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. Before you begin cleaning, switch off the compressor unit to stop dirt and debris from accumulating. Then with a garden hose, gently wash the fan blades and coil fins to remove dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris. After washing using a paper towel and a spray of sanitation to clean and disinfect the fan blades. It’s also an excellent idea to straighten any bent fins, which could be caused by wind or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is over 10 years old, you must get a professional to examine the line sets, the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil and the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are filled with refrigerant. any cracks or corrosion can lead to leaks, which can result in inadequate cooling and higher costs for utility.
Air Filter
Replace your air filter on a regular basis to ensure that it is clean and enhance the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter depends on how often you run the AC, how many pets reside in the home, and how much dust is collected. A typical air filter will last between two weeks and one month during the cooling 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 be flushed away. This can result in a flood-prone home, water damage, and the growth of mildew and mold. To prevent this from happening the float switch near your indoor evaporator coil will shut off the system if it detects that the drain line is blocked.