The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning makes use of ductwork to deliver cool air to every room. Airflow is regulated by an air handler that includes a filter for capturing particles.
The unit is usually placed in a small enclosure that is outside the home. Its noiseless operation enhances your peace by preventing the constant sound or whir of window AC units from disrupting indoor serenity.
Energy Efficiency
While central air conditioners use more energy than wall-mounted units, today’s systems are more efficient than models of the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was eliminated in 2006 and replaced by 410A. Manufacturers are constantly developing new technologies to help their systems use less energy.
Central AC systems, in contrast to window AC units, which are made to cool the space in which they’re placed they can distribute cool air evenly throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat indicates that the air handler needs to start cycling. The air handler draws hot air from your home and then passes it over the evaporator, that is filled with cool refrigeration. The heat contained in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into gas. This refrigerant is then pumped to the outdoor unit and the compressor increases its temperature and pressure. As it pumps it pushes the heat away from the evaporator coil, and then back into the house to be cooled and circulated through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes to regulating the temperature in large areas. They can cool rooms that are further from one AC unit and also have higher energy efficiency.
Depending on how well your home is sealed and insulated, as well as its layout, you might find that a mini-split unit could save you more energy than central air conditioning however. Mini-splits operate differently than central AC however, they are usually more efficient since they don’t rely on ductwork, which can leak and cause the system to work harder in order to bring your home up to the desired temperature. Talk to an HVAC specialist from your local Dallas heating company if you are interested in learning more about energy efficient solutions for cooling your home. They’ll help you choose the best solution for your specific requirements.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems are not only efficient and comfortable, they also offer a great amount of convenience. They can cool an entire home or office with only one unit, and do not require ducts like window units do. They also typically come with high-quality air filters which can help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for individuals who suffer from allergies or respiratory issues.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. It’s ideal for homes that already have ductwork and want an effective cooling solution. These systems can cool all rooms by a single vent. They can also be used with home zoned thermostats that let you regulate the cooling requirements of different areas within your house.
This is the most commonly used AC system. It operates in a similar fashion as furnaces. Central air conditioners comprise an outdoor unit that blows out warm air, and an indoor air handler that draws in cold or hot air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped from the air handler via lines, absorbing heat. The cooled air is pushed back to the air handler in the home and circulated through the ductwork into other rooms.
An added benefit of central air conditioning is that it can also aid in reducing humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler can remove excess moisture, and then let it out which prevents the development of mold and mildew within your ductwork.
It’s time to replace your cooling system if older than 15 years. A new, high quality AC system can help you save money on energy costs and also protect the integrity of your ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can assist you in selecting the right air conditioner for your budget and requirements.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, like any other major appliance needs regular maintenance to run smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be handled by the homeowner, while other tasks should be left to certified experts. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance contract which usually includes discounts on repairs as well as perks like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A dirty condenser will reduce air flow, decrease the efficiency of your system and increase energy costs. To prevent the accumulation of debris and dirt, turn off the power supply to the compressor unit prior to when you begin cleaning. Then using a garden hose, gently wash the coil fins and fan blades to get rid of dirt leaves, twigs, twigs and other debris. After cleaning, wipe the blades with a paper towel and a sanitation spray. You should also straighten any bent fins that may result from wind, or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, you must consult a professional to inspect the line sets, as well as the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil and the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are a conduit for refrigerant and any cracks or rust could cause leaks that will cause low cooling and costly costs for utility.
Air Filter
To increase the efficiency of your AC system, you should change your air filter regularly. The frequency of changing your air filter will depend on how often you run the AC, how many furry family members are in the home and how much dust gets accumulated. In general, a standard air filter will last for about two months or two weeks during the cool season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for your condensation is blocked by algae, mold, or bugs, the water that collects on the evaporator coil will not be able to flush away. This could result in flooding of your home, water damage, and the growth of mold and mildew. The float switch near your indoor coil will shut off the system if it detects a clogged drain line.