The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
A central air conditioning system utilizes ductwork to bring cooled air to each room. A air handler equipped with a filter that captures particulates regulates airflow.
The unit is typically situated in a small enclosure located outside of the house. Its quiet operation improves your comfort by preventing the constant sound or whir of window AC units from disrupting the peace and quiet of your indoor space.
Energy Efficiency
Although central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units, modern systems are more efficient than the models of the past. The refrigerant that ozone depletes R22 was eliminated in 2006 and replaced by an eco-friendly product known as 410A and manufacturers are constantly innovating new technologies to help their systems consume less energy.
In contrast to window AC units that are specifically designed to cool only the room they’re mounted in central AC systems can distribute cool air throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat indicates that the air handler must begin to cycle. The air handler draws hot air from your home, then passes it over the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigeration. The heat in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into gas. The refrigerant then gets pumped to the outdoor unit which is where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. As it pumps, it pushes the heat off of the evaporator coil, and then back into the house where it is cooled before being circulated through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes to controlling temperatures in large spaces. They are able to consistently cool rooms that are further apart than a single wall AC unit could and also provide better energy efficiency overall.
Depending on how well your house is well-insulated and sealed and the layout of your home it’s possible that a mini-split system will save you even more energy than a central air conditioner however. Mini-splits work differently than central AC, but they’re often more efficient due to the fact that they do not rely on ductwork which could leak and result in the system working too hard in order to bring your home up to the desired temperature. If you’re interested in finding out more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, speak to an HVAC expert at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning business. They can help you find the ideal solution for your requirements.
Convenience
In addition to energy efficiency and comfort, central air conditioning systems offer a lot of convenience. These systems are able to cool an entire home or office in 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 to keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is especially beneficial for those suffering from allergies or respiratory conditions.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. This is an excellent option for homes with ductwork that want a cooling solution. These systems are able to deliver cool air to each room through a single vent and can be used with home zoning, which permits you to manage your cooling requirements in various areas of your home with the help of a smart thermostat.
This is the most common type of AC system and operates in a similar way as a furnace. 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 flows from the air handler via lines, taking in heat. The cool air is pushed back into the air handler before being circulated to other rooms through the ductwork.
Another benefit of central air conditioning is that it can help to reduce humidity. This is particularly important in our humid climate. The air handler can eliminate excess moisture and then release it to the outside which prevents the growth of mildew and mold within your ductwork.
It’s time to replace your cooling system if it is older than 15 years. A new, top-quality AC system will help you save money on energy bills and also protect the integrity of your ductwork. To find out more about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, call us. We can help you choose the best air conditioner to meet your needs and budget.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, just like any other major appliance, requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be performed by the homeowner, while other tasks should be handled by licensed experts. Signing an agreement for maintenance is the best way to be on the forefront of AC problems. These agreements usually offer discounts on repairs and other advantages, like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A dirty condenser will reduce air flow, decrease the efficiency of your system, and increase the cost of energy. To avoid the build-up of dirt and debris, turn off the power to your compressor unit before you begin cleaning. Then, using a garden hose, gently wash the fan blades and coil fins to get rid of dirt leaves, twigs and other debris. After cleaning, wipe the blades with a paper towel and spray to clean. It is also a good idea to straighten any bent fins that could be caused by the wind or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, you should get a professional to examine the line sets, the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are a conduit for refrigerant and any cracks or rust can cause leaks, which can lead to low cooling and costly costs for utility.
Air Filter
Replace your air filter on a regular basis to ensure that it is clean and improve the performance of your air conditioning system. The frequency will vary based on the frequency at which the AC runs, the number of furry family members, and the amount of dust you collect in your home. A typical air filter lasts for around two weeks or a month in the cooler months.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for your condensation gets blocked by algae, mold, or bugs, the water that collects on the evaporator coil won’t be able to flush away. This can result in a flood-prone home, water damage and the growth of mildew and mold. To avoid this, the float switch located near the indoor evaporator will shut off the system if it determines that the drain line is blocked.