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 typically housed in a small enclosure outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation will enhance your comfort, since it will keep the constant hum and whirrr of window AC units from disrupting your indoor serenity.
Energy Efficiency
While it’s true that central air conditioners consume more energy to operate than a wall-mounted unit, the truth is that today’s systems are much more efficient than the ones used in the in the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was eliminated in 2006 and replaced by 410A. Manufacturers are also constantly creating new technologies that help their systems use less energy.
Unlike window AC units, which are specifically designed to cool the room they’re mounted in, central AC systems are able to evenly distribute cool air throughout your entire home using air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat signals that the air handler must begin to cycle. The air handler pulls warm air from your living areas and then passes it over the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and turn into gas. The refrigerant is then transported to the outdoor unit which is where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. When it pumps it pushes the heat away from the evaporator coil back into the house where it is cooled before being circulated through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes down to regulating temperature in large spaces. They can cool rooms that are further from one AC unit and also have higher energy efficiency.
It could be that, based on how well insulated and sealed your home is and also the layout, a mini-split conditioner can save you more energy than central air conditioning. Mini-splits are not the same as central ACs, however they are more efficient because they do not rely on ductwork. Ductwork leaks and could cause the system overwork to cool your house to the desired temperature. Talk to an HVAC expert from your local Dallas heating company if are interested in learning more about energy efficient options for cooling your home. They can help you find the ideal solution for your needs.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems aren’t only efficient and comfortable, they also offer a great amount of convenience. They can cool the entire home or business with one unit, and do not require ducts as window units do. They also come with high-quality filters to help 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. It’s ideal for homes with ductwork and want an effective cooling solution. These systems are able to provide cool air to every room through a single vent. They can also be used with home zoning, which allows you to regulate your cooling needs in different areas of your home with an intelligent thermostat.
This is the most common AC system. It works similarly to a furnace. Central air conditioners have a big outdoor unit that blows warm air and a smaller indoor air handler that pulls in cold or hot air through the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped from the air handler through lines, taking in heat. The cooled air is pushed back to the air handler in the home and circulated via the ductwork to other rooms.
Central air conditioning systems can also help reduce humidity. This is especially crucial 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.
If your cooling system is nearing 15 years old, it’s time to consider replacing it with a fresh and improved model. A new, top-quality AC system will help you save money on energy costs and help to protect the integrity of your home’s ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can assist you in choosing the right air conditioner for your budget and requirements.
Maintenance
As with any other major appliance, your air conditioner needs regular maintenance to run smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be handled by the homeowner while others should be left to certified experts. Signing up for a maintenance contract is the best way to stay on the top of AC issues. These agreements usually offer discounts on repairs as well as benefits, like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A dirty condenser will reduce air flow, decrease the efficiency of your system and increase energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, turn off the compressor unit to stop dirt and debris from accumulating. Then using a garden hose, gently wash the coil fins and fan blades to get rid of dirt leaves, twigs and other debris. After washing then, use a towel and spray for sanitation to wipe and sanitize the fan blades. It is 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 is over 10 years old, you should get a professional to examine the lines, the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil and the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are filled with refrigerant, and any cracks or corrosion can lead to leaks, which could result in a decrease in cooling and higher costs for utility.
Air Filter
To improve the performance of your AC system, you should change your air filter regularly. The frequency of change varies based on how often the AC runs, the number of furry members in your family, and how much dust you collect in your home. Generally, a standard air filter will last for about two months or two weeks during the cooler months.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for condensation is clogged with mold, algae or snails the line won’t flush out the water that’s collected by your evaporator coil during cooling. This can result in flooding in your basement, water damage to your home, and even mold and mildew growth. The float switch near your indoor coil will shut down the system if it detects a blocked drain line.