The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems utilize the ductwork system to distribute cooled air throughout the rooms. An air handler that has a filter that captures particulates regulates airflow.
The unit is typically situated in a small enclosure that is located outside of the house. The unit’s quiet operation will enhance your comfort, since it will stop the constant hum and whirrrr of window AC units from disrupting your indoor peace.
Energy Efficiency
Although it is true that central air conditioners consume more energy to run than wall-mounted units, the truth is that modern systems are more efficient than those in years past. The refrigerant that depletes the ozone R22 was phased out in 2006 and replaced by an eco-friendly product known as 410A Manufacturers are constantly developing new technologies that enable their systems to use less energy.
Contrary to window AC units, which are designed to cool just the room they’re mounted in central AC systems can distribute cool air throughout your home using air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat indicates that the air handler should begin cycling. The air handler pulls warm air from your living space and 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. The compressor then raises the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. As it pumps, heat is pushed off the evaporator back into your home, where it can be distributed and cooled through the ductwork.
The fact is that central AC systems are the most efficient choice in regulating the temperature of large spaces. They can cool rooms that are further apart than a single AC unit and also have higher energy efficiency.
Depending on how well your home is well-insulated and sealed as well as its layout it’s possible that a mini-split system could save you more energy than central air conditioning however. Mini-splits are different from central ACs, but they are more efficient, as they don’t use ductwork. Ductwork leaks and could cause the system overwork 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 professional at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning business. They’ll be able to help you choose the best solution for your specific requirements.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems are not only energy efficient and comfortable, they also provide a good variety of convenience. These systems are able to cool an entire home or office using 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 to keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is especially helpful for those suffering from respiratory issues or allergies.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. It’s ideal for homes that already have ductwork and want an effective cooling solution. These systems can cool all rooms with just one vent. They can also be used in conjunction with home zoned thermostats, which allow you to control the cooling needs of different rooms in your house.
This is the most popular kind of AC system that functions in a similar way similar to furnaces. A central air conditioner has a big outdoor unit that blows out warm air, and a smaller indoor air handler that pulls in cold or hot air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is circulated through the lines from the air handler, and it absorbs heat as it goes through the process. The cool air is pushed back to the air handler in the home and circulated via the ductwork to other rooms.
A further benefit of central air conditioning is that it can also aid in reducing 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 development of mold and mildew within your ductwork.
It’s time to replace your cooling system if it’s older than 15 years. A new, high quality AC system will help you save money on energy bills and also protect the integrity of your ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can help you select the best air conditioner for your budget and requirements.
Maintenance
Like every major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be performed by the homeowner, however, other tasks should be left to certified professionals. The best way to avoid getting caught up of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance contract that usually comes with a discount on repairs and perks like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser that is dirty will decrease air flow, reduce the efficiency of your system and increase energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, shut off the compressor unit to stop dirt and debris from accumulating. Then, using a garden hose, gently clean the coil fins and fan blades to remove dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris. After cleaning, wipe the blades with a towel and a sanitation spray. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins that may result from the wind or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, you should have a professional inspect the line sets, the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines carry refrigerant, and any cracks or rust can cause leaks, which can lead to poor cooling and high costs for utility.
Air Filter
Change your air filter regularly to ensure that it is fresh and improve 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 are living in your home and how much dust gets accumulated. Generally, a standard air filter lasts for about two weeks or a month during the cool season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for condensation is blocked by mold, algae, snails, or bugs, it can’t flush away the water that’s collected by your evaporator unit during cooling. This can lead to flooding in your basement, water damage to your home, and even mold and mildew growth. To avoid this, the float switch located near your indoor evaporator coil will stop the system when it detects that the drain line is blocked.