The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems make use of ductwork to distribute cool air in every room. The flow of air is controlled by an air handler that includes a filter for capturing particulates.
The unit is usually placed in a small enclosure outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation can enhance your comfort as it will keep the constant hum and whirr of window AC units from disrupting indoor peace.
Energy Efficiency
Although central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units, modern systems are more efficient than the ones used in the past. The Ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was eliminated in 2006 and replaced by 410A. Manufacturers are also constantly creating new technologies to make their systems more efficient and use less energy.
Contrary to window AC units that are specifically designed to cool only the room in which they are installed, central AC systems can evenly distribute cool air throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat tells the air handler to begin cycling on. The air handler pulls hot air from your home and then passes it over the evaporator, which is filled with cool refrigeration. The heat from the air causes refrigerant to absorb energy before it transforms into gas. The compressor then increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. As it pumps it, it carries the heat away from the evaporator coil and back into the house where it is cooled before being distributed through your ductwork again.
Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes to regulating temperature in large spaces. They are able to consistently cool rooms that are further away than one wall AC unit can and also provide better energy efficiency overall.
Depending on how well your house is insulated and sealed, and also the layout it’s possible that a mini-split could save you more energy than central air conditioners, though. Mini-splits are different from central ACs, but they can be more efficient because they don’t require the ductwork. Ductwork leaks and could cause the system to overwork to cool your house to the desired temperature. If you’re interested to learn more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, speak to an HVAC expert at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They’ll help you select the right solution for your specific needs.
Convenience
In addition to energy efficiency and comfort central air conditioning systems offer a lot of convenience. They can cool the entire house or office using only one unit, and do not require ducts as window units do. They’re also generally equipped with top-quality air filters that can help to keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is especially beneficial for those who suffer from respiratory 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 require a reliable cooling solution. These systems can cool every room with a single 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 home.
This is the most commonly used type of AC system and operates similarly as furnaces. Central air conditioners comprise an outdoor unit that blasts out warm air, and an indoor air handler that pulls in cold or hot air through the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped from the air handler through the 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 central air conditioning system can also help reduce humidity. This is particularly important in our humid climate. The air handler will remove excess moisture from your ductwork and then release it to the outside. This helps to prevent mold and mildew from growing.
It’s time to replace your cooling system if older than 15 years. A new, high-quality AC system will save you money on energy bills and will help ensure the integrity of the ductwork in your home. For more information about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, please contact us. We can help you choose the perfect air conditioner for your budget and needs.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, like every other major appliance requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be handled by homeowners, while others should be left to certified experts. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign to a maintenance contract which usually includes a discount on repairs and benefits such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A dirty condenser will reduce air flow, reduce the efficiency of your system and increase the cost of energy. To avoid the build-up of dirt and debris shut 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 remove dirt leaves, twigs and other debris. After washing using 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, which may be caused by wind or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, you should consult a professional to inspect the lines, 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 that will result in low cooling and costly costs for utility.
Air Filter
Change your air filter frequently to ensure it is clean and enhance the performance of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter depends on how often you run the AC, how many furry family members are in the house and the amount of dust gets accumulated. A standard air filter should last for about two weeks to a month in the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the condensation drain line is blocked by algae, mold, snails, or bugs it won’t be able to flush out the water that’s collected by your evaporator coil during cooling. This can cause a flooded home, water damage and the growth of mildew and mold. In order to prevent this, the float switch located near your indoor evaporator coil will stop the system when it detects that the drain line is blocked.