The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning utilizes ductwork to bring cooled air to each room. The flow of air is controlled by an air handler that includes a filter for capturing particles.
The unit is usually placed in a small enclosure located outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation will increase your comfort as it will prevent the constant hum and whirrr of window AC units from disrupting indoor serenity.
Energy Efficiency
While central air conditioners use more energy than wall-mounted units, modern systems are more efficient than the models of the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was eliminated in 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are constantly creating new technologies that make their systems more efficient and use less energy.
In contrast to window AC units specifically designed to cool only the room they’re mounted in, central AC systems can evenly distribute cool air throughout your home by using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signals the air handler to begin running. The air handler draws hot air from your home and passes it over the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigeration. The heat contained in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy, and then turn into a gas. The refrigerant is then transported to the outdoor unit, where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. When it pumps, the heat is pushed off the evaporator, and then returned to your home, where it can be cooled again and distributed through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes down to regulating the temperature in large areas. They are able to continuously cool rooms that are farther away than a single wall AC unit can, and they offer better energy efficiency in general.
Depending on how well your house is well-insulated and sealed and the layout of your home it is possible that a mini-split could save you more energy than central air conditioners however. Mini-splits differ from central ACs, but they can be more efficient, as they don’t use ductwork. Ductwork leaks and can cause the system overwork to cool your house to the desired temperature. If you’re interested in finding out more about energy-efficient options for cooling your home, speak to an HVAC professional at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They can assist you in finding the right solution for your needs.
Convenience
In addition to energy efficiency and comfort, central air conditioning systems also provide a lot of convenience. These systems are able to cool a whole home or office in just one unit and do not require ducts like window units do. They are also fitted with high-quality filters to help keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is especially helpful for those suffering from allergies or respiratory conditions.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and for good reason. This is a great option for homes with ductwork and need an effective cooling solution. These systems can cool every room with a single vent. They can also be used with home zoned thermostats that let you control the cooling needs of different areas within your house.
This is the most commonly used type of AC system and operates in a similar way as furnaces. Central air conditioners have a large outdoor unit that blows warm air and a smaller indoor unit that pulls hot or cold air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through lines from the air handler and absorbs heat in the process. The cooled air then is pumped back into the air handler before being circulated to other rooms through the ductwork.
A further benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it may aid in reducing humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler can remove excess moisture and then release it outside to stop the growth of mold and mildew in your ductwork.
If your cooling system is approaching 15 years old, it’s time to think about replacing it with a new and improved model. A new, high-end AC system will help you save money on energy costs as well as safeguard the integrity of your ductwork. For more information about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, call us. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your budget and needs.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, as every other major appliance needs regular maintenance to run smoothly. Some routine maintenance can be handled by the homeowner, while other tasks should be left to qualified experts. The best way to avoid getting caught up of AC issues is to sign to a maintenance contract, which often comes with a discount on repairs and perks like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser unit that is dirty can restrict air flow, reduce system efficiency, and increase energy costs. To prevent a build-up of dirt and debris shut off the power supply to your compressor unit prior to you begin cleaning. Then with a garden hose, gently clean the fan blades and coil fins to remove dirt leaves, twigs and other debris. After washing, use a paper towel and spray for sanitation to wipe and sanitize the fan blades. It’s 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 has been running for more than 10 years, you should engage a professional to check the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines carry refrigerant, and any cracks or rust may cause leaks that will cause inadequate cooling and expensive costs for utility.
Air Filter
To increase the efficiency of your AC system, change your air filter regularly. The frequency will vary based on how often the AC runs, the number of furry family members, and the amount of dust you collect in your home. A standard air filter should last between two weeks and one month during the cooler season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the line that drains condensation is clogged with algae, mold or snails the line won’t flush out the water collected by your evaporator coil in cooling. This can cause a flooded home, water damage and the development of mildew and mold. To avoid this, the float switch located close to your indoor evaporator coil will shut off the system if it determines that the drain line is clogged.