The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
A central air conditioning system uses ductwork to deliver cooled air to each room. The flow of air is controlled by an air handler which has a filter that is used to remove particles.
The unit is typically housed in a small enclosure outside the home. Its quiet operation increases your comfort by preventing constant hum or whir of window AC units from disturbing the peace of your home.
Energy Efficiency
While central air conditioners use more energy than wall-mounted units, today’s systems are more efficient than the ones of the past. The refrigerant that depletes the ozone R22 was eliminated in 2006 and was replaced by an eco-friendly product called 410A, and manufacturers are constantly developing new technologies to enable their systems to use less energy.
Central AC systems, unlike window AC units, which are made to cool the space within which they’re located they can distribute cool air throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signals the air handler to start the process of cycling. The air handler is able to pull hot air from your home and then passes it over the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes refrigerant to absorb energy before it transforms 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 transferred from the evaporator back into your home, where it can be cooled and distributed through the ductwork.
The reality is that central AC systems are the most efficient option for controlling the temperature of large areas. They are able to continuously cool rooms that are further away than one wall AC unit can and also provide better energy efficiency in general.
Depending on how well your house is insulated and sealed, as well as its layout, you might find that a mini-split unit could save you more energy than a central air conditioner, though. Mini-splits work differently than central AC however they’re usually more efficient due to the fact that they do not rely on ductwork which could leak and cause the system to work harder in order to cool your home to the desired temperature. If you’re interested in learning more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, talk with an HVAC expert at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They can assist you in finding the ideal solution for your needs.
Convenience
In addition to the energy efficiency and comfort, central air conditioning systems also provide lots of convenience. They can cool the entire house or office in just one unit and do not require ducts like window units do. They also come with high-quality filters that help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is especially beneficial for those who suffer from respiratory or allergies.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. It’s perfect for homes that already have ductwork and require a reliable cooling solution. These systems can cool all rooms with just one vent. They can also be used with thermostats with zones for homes that allow you to control the cooling needs of different areas in your home.
This is the most commonly used AC system. It functions similarly to furnaces. Central air conditioners have a big outdoor unit that blows out warm air and a smaller indoor air handler that pulls in hot or cold air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through the lines from the air handler and absorbs heat in 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 a central air conditioning system is that it can also help to reduce humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler is able to remove excess moisture and let it out which prevents the growth of mold and mildew within your ductwork.
If your current cooling system is nearing 15 years in age it’s time to think about replacing it with a fresh and improved model. A new, top-quality AC system will allow you to reduce your energy bills as well as protect the integrity of your ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can help you choose the best air conditioner to meet your budget and needs.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, just like any other major appliance, requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be done by the homeowner while other tasks should be left to licensed professionals. Signing up for a maintenance agreement is the best way to be on the top of AC problems. These agreements typically include discounts on repairs, as well as other benefits, 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. To prevent a build-up of dirt and debris switch off the power supply to the compressor unit prior to when you begin cleaning. Then, with a garden hose and a cloth, gently scrub the coil fins and blades of your fan to get rid of dirt, twigs and leaves. After washing the blades, wipe them with a paper towel and spray for sanitation. Also, straighten any bent fins that might have been caused by wind, or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, it is recommended to get a professional to examine the lines, the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil and the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are filled with refrigerant and any corrosion or cracks can result in leaks, which will result in poor cooling and more expensive costs for utility.
Air Filter
To increase the efficiency of your AC system, make sure you change your air filter on a regular basis. The frequency of change varies based on the frequency at which the AC is running, the number of furry family members, and how much dust your home collects. A standard air filter should last about two weeks to a month in the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If your condensation drain line gets blocked by algae, mold, or bugs, the water collected on the evaporator coil will not be able to be flushed away. This can result in flooding of your basement, water damage to your home, and mold and mildew growth. To avoid this, the float switch located near your indoor evaporator coil will stop the system when it senses that the drain line has become blocked.