The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning makes use of ductwork to deliver cool air to every room. Airflow is controlled by an air handler that has a filter that is used to remove particulates.
The unit is usually located in an enclosure that is outside the house. The unit’s quiet operation can enhance your comfort as it will prevent the constant hum and whirr 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 wall-mounted units however, the reality is that the modern systems are much more efficient than those used in the past. The Ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was removed in 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are continually creating new technologies to help their systems use less energy.
Central AC systems, in contrast to window AC units that are designed to cool the space in which they’re placed can distribute cool air evenly throughout your home using air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat signalizes the air handler to start running. The air handler is able to pull hot air from your home and then passes it through the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into gas. The refrigerant then gets pumped to the outdoor unit, where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. As it pumps, heat is pushed away from the evaporator, and then returned to your home, where it can be distributed and cooled through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes to regulating the temperature in large areas. They are able to continuously cool rooms that are further from one another than a single wall AC unit could and also provide better energy efficiency overall.
Depending on how well your house is sealed and insulated, and also the layout it is possible that a mini-split unit could save you more energy than central air conditioners, though. Mini-splits differ from central ACs, however they can be more efficient, as they do not rely on ductwork. Ductwork leaks can make the system overwork to cool your house to the desired temperature. If you’re interested in learning more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, you should talk to an HVAC expert at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They can help you find the right solution for your needs.
Convenience
In addition to energy efficiency and comfort central air conditioning systems provide lots of convenience. These systems are able to cool a whole home or office in only one unit, and do not require ducts like window units do. They also typically come with top-quality air filters that can help to keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is especially beneficial for those suffering from respiratory or allergies.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and for good reason. It is ideal for homes that already have ductwork and need a powerful cooling solution. These systems can deliver cool air to each room through a single vent. They can also be paired with home zoning, which permits you to regulate your cooling needs in different areas of the home using an intelligent thermostat.
This is the most common AC system. It functions in a similar fashion similar to furnaces. A central air conditioner has an outdoor unit that blows out warm air, and an indoor air handler that pulls in hot or cold air through the ductwork. The refrigerant flows from the air handler through lines, taking in heat. The cooled air is then pushed back to the air handler inside the home, and circulated through the ductwork into other rooms.
Another benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it can aid in reducing humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler is able to remove excess moisture, and then release it outside to stop the development of mold and mildew in your ductwork.
If your current cooling system is nearing 15 years old it’s time to consider replacing it with a new and improved model. A new, top-quality AC system will save you money on energy costs and also help safeguard the integrity of the ductwork of your home. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can assist you in selecting the best air conditioner for your budget and requirements.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, as any other major appliance requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be handled by homeowners, while others are best left to certified professionals. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance contract which usually includes discounts on repairs and benefits such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A dirty condenser unit will limit air flow, reduce the efficiency of the system and increase the cost of energy. Before you begin cleaning, turn off the compressor unit to stop dirt and debris from accumulating. Then, using the help of a garden hose and sponge, gently clean the blades and fins of your fan to remove dirt leaves, twigs, and twigs. After washing the blades, wipe them using a paper towel and a sanitation spray. It’s also recommended to straighten out any noticeable bent fins, which could be caused by winds or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is over 10 years old, you must have a professional inspect the line sets, the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines carry refrigerant and any cracks or rust could cause leaks, which can cause inadequate cooling and expensive cost of energy.
Air Filter
Change your air filter regularly to keep it clean and enhance the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter will depend on how often you run the AC, how many pets are in the home and how much dust gets accumulated. In general, a standard air filter lasts for approximately two weeks or a month during the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the condensation drain line is clogged with algae, mold, snails, or bugs it won’t be able to flush out the water that’s collected by your evaporator unit during cooling. This could lead to flooding in your basement, water damage to your home, and mold and mildew growth. To avoid this the float switch near your indoor evaporator coil will shut off the system if it detects that the drain line has become blocked.