The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
A central air conditioning system uses ductwork to deliver cooled air to every room. Airflow is controlled by an air handler that has a filter that is used to remove particles.
The unit is usually located in a small enclosure outside the home. Its quiet operation increases your comfort by preventing constant hum or whir of window AC units from disrupting the peace of your home.
Energy Efficiency
Although central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units do, modern systems are more efficient than the ones used in the past. The Ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was eliminated by 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are also continually creating new technologies to aid in the use of less energy.
Central AC systems, unlike window AC units that are designed to cool the space in which they’re placed they can distribute cool air evenly throughout your home using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signals that the air handler must start cycling. The air handler pulls hot air from your home and passes it over the evaporator, which is filled with cool refrigeration. The heat contained in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and turn into a gas. The compressor then increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. When it pumps, the heat is pushed off the evaporator and back into your home, where it can be cooled again and distributed through the ductwork.
The reality is that central AC systems are the most efficient choice when it comes to managing the temperature of large areas. They are able to consistently cool rooms that are farther away than a single wall AC unit could and provide greater energy efficiency overall.
Depending on how well your home is insulated and sealed, and also the layout it’s possible that a mini-split unit will save you even more energy than central air conditioning, though. Mini-splits function differently than central AC however they’re usually more efficient since they do not rely on ductwork which can leak and cause the system to work harder in order to bring your home up to the desired temperature. If you’re interested to learn more about energy-efficient options for cooling your home, talk with an HVAC professional at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They’ll be able to assist you choose the best solution for your requirements.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems aren’t only efficient and comfortable, but they also provide a good variety of convenience. They can cool a whole home or office in only one unit, and don’t require ducts as window units do. They are also usually equipped with high-quality air filters that can help keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is especially helpful for those suffering from allergies or respiratory conditions.
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 provide cool air to every room from a single vent and can be used with home zoning, which allows you to manage your cooling requirements in various parts of the house with a smart thermostat.
This is the most popular type of AC system that operates in a similar way similar to 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 flows from the air handler through the lines, taking in heat. The cooled air is pushed back to the air handler in the home, and circulated through the ductwork to other rooms.
Another benefit of central air conditioning is that it can also aid in reducing humidity. This is particularly important in our humid climate. The air handler can remove excess moisture, and then let it out, which helps to prevent the growth of mold and mildew within your ductwork.
It’s time to upgrade your cooling system if it is older than 15 years. A new, high-end AC system can help you save money on energy bills as well as protect the integrity of your ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can assist you in selecting the perfect air conditioner for your needs and budget.
Maintenance
As with any major appliance, your air conditioner needs regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be performed by homeowners, while others are best left to certified experts. The best way to avoid getting caught up of AC issues is to sign up for 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, decrease the efficiency of your system, and increase energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, shut off the compressor unit to prevent dirt and debris from building up. Then, using a garden hose, gently wash the coil fins and fan blades to get rid of dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris. After washing the blades, wipe them clean with a towel and a sanitation spray. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins that might be caused by wind, or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is over 10 years old, you must have a professional inspect the lines, the copper tubes connecting the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are filled with refrigerant, and any corrosion or cracks could lead to leaks, which could result in a decrease in cooling and more expensive cost of energy.
Air Filter
Change your air filter regularly to keep it clean and improve the performance of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter will depend on the frequency you run the AC, how many pets are in the home, and how much dust is collected. In general, a standard air filter will last for around two weeks or a month during the cool season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for condensation is blocked by mold, algae, snails, or bugs, it can’t flush away the water that’s collected by your evaporator unit during cooling. This could result in flooding of your home, water damage and the development of mildew and mold. The float switch on your indoor coil will shut down the system if it detects a blocked drain line.