The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
A central air conditioning system makes use of ductwork to deliver cool air to each room. Airflow is controlled by an air handler which has a filter that is used to remove particles.
The unit is typically situated in a small enclosure located outside of the house. The unit’s quiet operation will increase your comfort, as it will prevent the constant hum and whirrr of window AC units from disrupting indoor peace.
Energy Efficiency
While it’s true that central air conditioners use more energy to operate than a wall-mounted unit but the truth is that modern systems are much more efficient than the ones used in the ago. The refrigerant that ozone depletes R22 was eliminated in 2006 and replaced with an environmentally friendly product called 410A, and manufacturers are constantly developing new technologies to aid in the reduction of energy.
In contrast to window AC units, which are specifically designed to cool the area they’re installed in central AC systems are able to evenly distribute cool air throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat signals that the air handler must start cycling. The air handler draws warm air from your living spaces and then passes it over the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into a gas. This refrigerant is then pumped to the outdoor unit, where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. When it pumps, the heat is transferred from the evaporator, and then returned to your home, where it can be cooled again and distributed through the ductwork.
The reality is that central AC systems are the most efficient option when it comes to managing the temperature of large spaces. They are able to consistently cool rooms that are farther away than one wall AC unit can, and they offer better energy efficiency overall.
Depending on how well your house is sealed and insulated, as well as its layout it is possible that a mini-split unit can 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 don’t rely on ductwork, which could leak and result in the system working too hard to bring your home up to the desired temperature. Talk to an HVAC expert from your local Dallas heating company if you are interested in learning more about energy efficient solutions for cooling your home. They can help you find the right solution for your requirements.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems are not only efficient and comfortable, but they also provide a great deal of convenience. They can cool your entire business or home with only one unit and don’t need ducts as window units do. They are also usually equipped with top-quality air filters that can help to keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for people suffering from allergies or respiratory ailments.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and for good reason. This is an excellent option for homes with ductwork that want a cooling solution. These systems can cool every room by a single vent. They can also be used with thermostats with zones for homes that allow you to regulate the cooling requirements of different areas within your house.
This is the most popular AC system. It operates similarly similar to a furnace. Central air conditioners include a large outdoor unit that blows warm air and a smaller indoor unit that pulls hot or cold air out of the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through lines that connect to the air handler, and it absorbs heat during the process. The cooled air is pumped back into the air handler before being is circulated to other rooms via the ductwork.
Another benefit of central air conditioning is that it can aid in reducing humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler can remove excess moisture from your ductwork, and release it outside. This will help to stop mold and mildew from growing.
It’s time to upgrade your cooling system if it’s older than 15 years. A new, high quality AC system will 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 help you select the best air conditioner for your budget and requirements.
Maintenance
Like any major appliance air conditioner, your air conditioner requires regular maintenance to run smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be done by the homeowner while other tasks should be left to qualified experts. Signing up for a maintenance agreement is the best method to keep on the top of AC issues. These agreements typically offer discounts on repairs, as well as other perks, such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A dirty condenser unit will hinder air flow, decrease system efficiency, and increase energy costs. To prevent a build-up of dirt and other debris, turn off the power supply to the compressor unit prior to when you begin cleaning. Then, using a garden hose, gently clean the coil fins and fan blades to get rid of dirt leaves, twigs and other debris. After cleaning the blades, wipe them clean with a paper towel and spray for sanitation. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins that may have been caused by winds, or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is over 10 years old, you must consult a professional to inspect the line sets, as well as the copper tubes connecting the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines carry refrigerant and any cracks or rust may cause leaks, which can lead to low cooling and costly utility bills.
Air Filter
To increase the efficiency of your AC system, make sure you change your air filter on a regular basis. The frequency will vary based on how often your AC is running, the number of furry family members, and how much dust is accumulated in your home. A standard air filter should last between two weeks and one month during the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If your condensation drain line becomes clogged by mold, algae or bugs, the accumulated water on the evaporator coil won’t be able to flush away. This can result in a flood-prone home, water damage, and the growth of mold and mildew. To prevent this from happening the float switch near the indoor evaporator will shut off the system if it detects that the drain line is clogged.