The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems utilize ductwork to distribute cool air throughout the rooms. An air handler with a filter that captures particulates regulates airflow.
The unit is usually placed in a small enclosure located outside the home. Its quiet operation improves your comfort by preventing constant hum or whir of window AC units from disrupting the peace of your home.
Energy Efficiency
While it’s true that central air conditioners consume more energy to operate than wall-mounted units but the truth is that modern systems are more efficient than those in years in the past. The ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was eliminated in 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are also continually developing new technologies to aid in the use of less energy.
In contrast to window AC units that are specifically designed to cool the room in which they are installed central AC systems are able to evenly distribute cool air throughout your entire home with air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat signals the air handler to start running. 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 refrigerant is then transported to the outdoor unit, where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. When it pumps it pushes the heat off of the evaporator coil and back into the home, where it’s cooled and circulated through the ductwork.
The fact is that central AC systems are the most efficient option in controlling the temperature of large spaces. They can cool rooms that are farther apart than a single AC unit and also have higher energy efficiency.
Depending on how well your house is insulated and sealed, as well as its layout, you might find that a mini-split system will save you even more energy than central air conditioners, though. Mini-splits are not the same as central ACs, but they are more efficient since they don’t require ductwork. Ductwork leaks and can make the system overwork to cool your house to the desired temperature. If you’re interested in learning more about energy-efficient options for cooling your home, talk with an HVAC specialist at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They can help you find the best solution for your requirements.
Convenience
In addition to energy efficiency and comfort, central air conditioning systems offer many benefits. They can cool the entire house or office in just one unit and do not require ducts as window units do. They also come with high-quality filters that keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those suffering from respiratory issues or allergies.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and for good reason. This is a great option for homes with ductwork that want a cooling solution. These systems are able to deliver cool air to each room from a single vent and can be used with home zone control, which allows you to manage the cooling requirements in different parts of the house with the help of a smart thermostat.
This is the most popular type of AC system that operates similarly as a furnace. Central air conditioners are comprised of an outdoor unit that blows warm air and a smaller inside unit that pulls hot or cold air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through the lines that connect to the air handler, and it absorbs heat in the process. The cooled air is then pushed back to the air handler inside the home, and circulated through the ductwork into other rooms.
A central air conditioning system can also reduce humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler can eliminate excess moisture, and then let it out, which helps to prevent the growth of mildew and mold in your ductwork.
It’s time to upgrade your cooling system if it’s older than 15 years. A new, top-quality AC system will allow you to save money on energy bills and also protect the integrity of your ductwork. To learn more about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, please contact us. We can assist you in selecting the right air conditioner to meet your budget and needs.
Maintenance
Just like any major appliance, your air conditioner needs regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be performed by the homeowner, while other tasks should be left to certified experts. Signing up for a maintenance agreement is the best method to keep on the forefront of AC issues. These contracts often offer discounts on repairs and other advantages, like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A dirty condenser unit will restrict air flow, reduce system efficiency, and increase energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, shut off your compressor unit to stop dirt and debris from building up. Then with a garden hose, gently clean the coil fins and fan blades to remove dirt leaves, twigs and other debris. After cleaning the blades, wipe them clean with a paper towel and spray to clean. It is also a good idea to straighten out any noticeable bent fins that could be 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 line sets, the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are filled with refrigerant and any cracks or corrosion can result in leaks, which can result in inadequate cooling and higher utility bills.
Air Filter
To enhance the performance of your AC system, you should change your air filter regularly. The frequency of change varies based on how often your AC runs, the number of furry family members, and how much dust is accumulated in your home. A standard air filter should last for about two weeks to a month in the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for condensation 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 in cooling. This can lead to flooding in your basement, water damage in your home, as well as mold and mildew growth. To avoid this, the float switch located near the indoor evaporator will shut off the system if it senses that the drain line has become blocked.