The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
A central air conditioning system makes use of ductwork to deliver cool air to each room. Airflow is regulated by an air handler that features a filter to capture particles.
The unit is typically housed in a small enclosure that is outside the home. Its noiseless operation enhances your comfort by preventing the constant hum or whir of window AC units from disturbing the peace of your home.
Energy Efficiency
Central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units, modern systems are more efficient than the models of the past. The Ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was phased out in 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are continually creating new technologies that help their systems use less energy.
Central AC systems, unlike window AC units, which are designed to cool only the area in which they’re placed can distribute cool air evenly throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat indicates that the air handler should begin to cycle. The air handler draws hot air from your home, then passes it over the evaporator, which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes refrigerant absorb energy before it transforms into gas. The compressor then raises the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. As it pumps, heat is transferred from the evaporator back into your home, where it will be cooled and distributed through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes down to controlling temperature in large spaces. They can cool rooms that are farther from one AC unit and have greater energy efficiency.
You might find that based on the level of insulation and sealing your home is, as well as the layout, a mini-split air conditioner can save you more energy than central air conditioning. Mini-splits differ from central ACs, but they can be more efficient, as they don’t require the ductwork. Ductwork leaks and can cause the system to overwork in order to cool your home to the desired temperature. Contact an HVAC professional from your local Dallas heating company if are interested in learning more about energy efficient solutions for cooling your home. They’ll be able to assist you select the right solution for your specific needs.
Convenience
In addition to comfort and energy efficiency, central air conditioning systems offer lots of convenience. They can cool your entire office or home in one unit, and do not require vents like window units. They also typically come with high-quality air filters which can help to keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is particularly helpful for people suffering from respiratory conditions or allergies.
Central AC is one of the most popular kinds of cooling systems and with good reason. It’s ideal for homes with ductwork and want an effective cooling solution. These systems can deliver cool air to each room through a single vent and can be used with home zone control, which allows you to regulate your cooling needs in different parts of the house with a smart thermostat.
This is the most common AC system. It works in a similar way to furnaces. Central air conditioners comprise an outdoor unit that blows out warm air, and a smaller indoor air handler that draws in cold or hot air through the ductwork. The refrigerant flows from the air handler via lines, absorbing heat. The cooled air is then pushed back to the air handler in the home and circulated through the ductwork to other rooms.
A further benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it can aid in reducing humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler can eliminate excess moisture and let it out which prevents the development of mold and mildew in your ductwork.
If your current cooling system is getting close to 15 years in age, it’s time to think about replacing it with a new and improved model. A new, top-quality AC system will help you reduce your energy bills as well as protect the integrity of your ductwork. To learn more about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, please contact us. We can help you select the right air conditioner for your budget and needs.
Maintenance
As with any major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Some routine maintenance can be performed by the homeowner, while other tasks should be left to licensed professionals. The best way to avoid getting caught up of AC issues is to sign to a maintenance contract which usually includes a discount on repairs and advantages such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser unit that is dirty will limit air flow, reduce the efficiency of the system 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 leaves, twigs and other debris. After washing using a paper towel and a spray of sanitation to clean and disinfect the fan blades. Also, straighten any bent fins that may be caused by the wind 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 hire a professional to inspect the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil with the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines are a conduit for refrigerant and any cracks or rust can cause leaks that can cause low cooling and costly cost of energy.
Air Filter
To increase the efficiency of your AC system, change your air filter on a regular basis. The frequency of change varies based on how often the AC is running, the number of furry family members and the amount of dust your home collects. Generally, a standard air filter can last for around two weeks or a month in the cool season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for your condensation gets blocked by mold, algae or bugs, the accumulated water on the evaporator coil will not be able to be flushed away. This could lead to flooding of your basement, water damage in your home, and mold and mildew growth. In order to prevent this the float switch near the indoor evaporator will shut off the system when it detects that the drain line is clogged.