The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems use ductwork to distribute cooled air throughout the rooms. Airflow is controlled by an air handler that includes a filter for capturing particulates.
The unit is typically situated in a small enclosure outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation can enhance your comfort as it will prevent the constant hum and whirrr of window AC units from disrupting your indoor serenity.
Energy Efficiency
Although central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units do, modern systems are more efficient than the ones of the past. The refrigerant that depletes the ozone R22 was eliminated in 2006 and has been replaced by an eco-friendly product known as 410A, and manufacturers are constantly developing new technologies that enable their systems to use less energy.
Unlike window AC units that are specifically designed to cool the room they’re mounted in, central AC systems can evenly distribute cool air throughout your home using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat tells you that the air handler must start cycling. The air handler draws warm air from your living space and then passes it over the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat that is released into the air causes refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into gas. The compressor then raises the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. When it pumps it pushes the heat out of the evaporator coil and back into the house, where it’s cooled and circulated through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes down to regulating the temperature in large areas. They can cool rooms that are farther apart than a single AC unit and have greater energy efficiency.
Depending on how well your house is well-insulated and sealed and the layout of your home it’s possible that a mini-split system can save you even more energy than central air conditioning, though. Mini-splits are not the same as central ACs, but they are more efficient because they don’t require ductwork. Ductwork leaks and can cause the system to overwork to cool your home to the desired temperature. Talk to an HVAC specialist from your local Dallas heating company if you want to learn more about energy-efficient solutions for cooling your home. They’ll be able to assist you choose the best solution for your specific needs.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems are not only energy efficient and comfortable, but they also provide a good amount of convenience. They can cool your entire home or business with one unit and don’t require ducts as window units do. They also come with high-quality filters that help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly beneficial for those suffering from allergies or respiratory ailments.
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 are able to provide cool air to every room with just one vent. They can also be paired with home zoning, which permits you to regulate your cooling needs in different areas of your home with a smart thermostat.
This is the most common kind of AC system that operates in a similar manner as a furnace. Central air conditioners have a big outdoor unit that blasts out warm air, and a smaller indoor air handler that draws in hot or cold air from the ductwork. The refrigerant flows from the air handler via lines, absorbing heat. The cooled air is pumped back into the air handler before being it is then circulated to other rooms via the ductwork.
Central air conditioning systems can also reduce humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler can eliminate excess moisture and then let it out which prevents the growth of mold and mildew within your ductwork.
If your cooling system is getting close to 15 years old it’s time to think about replacing it with a fresh and more efficient model. A new, top-quality AC system will save you money on energy costs and also help protect the integrity of your home’s ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can help you select the right air conditioner to meet your budget and requirements.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, just like any other major appliance, requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Certain maintenance tasks that are routine can be handled by the homeowner, while others should be left to certified experts. Signing an agreement for maintenance is the best way to stay on the forefront of AC issues. These agreements usually include discounts on repairs as well as benefits, like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser unit that is dirty can limit air flow, reduce system efficiency and drive up the cost of energy. To avoid the build-up of dirt and other debris, turn off the power supply to the compressor unit prior to when you begin cleaning. Then, using an outdoor hose and sponge, gently clean the blades and coil fins of your fan to remove dirt leaves, twigs, and twigs. After cleaning the blades, wipe them clean with a paper towel and spray for sanitation. You should also straighten any bent fins that could result from wind, or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is over 10 years old, it is recommended to have a professional inspect the lines, the copper tubes connecting the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil with the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines carry refrigerant, and any cracks or rust can cause leaks, which can cause poor cooling and high cost of energy.
Air Filter
To enhance the performance of your AC system, make sure you change your air filter on a regular basis. The frequency varies depending on how often the AC runs, the number of furry family members and the amount of dust you collect in your home. A typical air filter will last between two weeks and one month during the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for condensation is blocked by mold, algae, snails, or bugs it won’t be able to flush out the water collected by your evaporator coil during cooling. This could lead to a flooded basement, water damage in your home, and mold and mildew growth. In order to prevent this the float switch near your indoor evaporator coil will shut off the system when it detects that the drain line has become blocked.