The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

Central air conditioning systems use ductwork to distribute cooled air throughout the rooms. The flow of air is controlled by an air handler which includes a filter for capturing particulates.

The unit is typically located in a small enclosure outside the house. Its noiseless operation enhances your comfort by preventing constant hum or whir of window AC units from disrupting the peace of your home.

Energy Efficiency

While it’s true that central air conditioners consume more energy to run than wall-mounted units, the truth is that modern systems are much more efficient than those used in the in the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was eliminated in 2006 and replaced by 410A. Manufacturers are also continually creating new technologies that aid in the use of less energy.

Unlike window AC units, which are designed to cool just the room in which they are installed, central AC systems can evenly distribute cool air throughout your entire home by using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signalizes the air handler to begin cycling on. The air handler draws warm air from your living areas and then it is pushed through the evaporator coil, which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat that’s in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and turn into a gas. The refrigerant then gets 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 back into the house, where it’s cooled and distributed through your ductwork again.

Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes down to controlling the temperature in large areas. They can cool rooms that are farther apart than a single AC unit and have greater energy efficiency.

You may find that depending on how well sealed and insulated your home is, as well as the layout, a mini-split conditioner will save you more energy than central air conditioning. Mini-splits are different from central ACs, but they are more efficient because they do not rely on ductwork. Ductwork leaks and could cause the system overwork to cool your home to the desired temperature. If you’re interested in finding out more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, speak to an HVAC specialist at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They’ll be able to help you select the right solution for your specific needs.

Convenience

In addition to comfort and energy efficiency, central air conditioning systems provide lots of convenience. They can cool the entire home or business with one unit and don’t require ducts like window units. They also come with high-quality filters that keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those who suffer from respiratory or allergies.

Central AC is one of the most well-known types of cooling systems, and for good reason. This is an excellent option for homes with ductwork and need an effective cooling solution. These systems can cool all rooms by a single vent. They can also be paired with thermostats that are zoned for home use that let you control the cooling needs of different rooms in your house.

This is the most commonly used AC system. It operates in a similar way as a furnace. A central air conditioner has a big outdoor unit that blows out warm air, and a smaller indoor air handler that pulls in cold or hot air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is circulated through the lines that connect to the air handler, and it absorbs heat during the process. The cooled air is returned to the air handler inside the home, and circulated through the ductwork into other rooms.

Central air conditioning systems can also help reduce humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler can eliminate excess moisture and release it outside, which helps to prevent the growth of mildew and mold within your ductwork.

It’s time to upgrade your cooling system if it is older than 15 years. A new, high-quality AC system will save you money on energy bills and also help protect the integrity of the ductwork in your home. To learn more about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, call us. We can assist you in selecting the best air conditioner for your budget and requirements.

Maintenance

Like any major appliance air conditioner, your air conditioner requires regular service to keep running smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be completed by the homeowner, while others should be left to licensed experts. Signing an agreement for maintenance is the best way to be on top of AC problems. These agreements typically come with discounts on repairs as well as perks, such as priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A dirty condenser unit will restrict air flow, reduce system efficiency and drive up energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, shut off the compressor unit to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating. Then, with an outdoor hose and sponge, gently clean the coil fins and blades of your fan to get rid of dirt leaves, twigs and twigs. After washing then, use a towel and spray for sanitation to wipe and sanitize the fan blades. It’s also recommended to straighten any bent fins, which may be caused by wind or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, it is recommended to have a professional inspect the line sets, the copper tubes connecting the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil with the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are filled with refrigerant, and any corrosion or cracks can lead to leaks, which will result in poor cooling and higher utility bills.

Air Filter

Replace your air filter on a regular basis to ensure it is fresh and improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter will depend on how often you use the AC and how many furry family members are in the home and how much dust accumulates. In general, a standard air filter can last for about two weeks or a month during the cooler months.

Condensate Drain Line

If your condensation drain line becomes clogged by algae, mold or bugs, the water that collects on the evaporator coil will not be able to be flushed away. This can result in flooding in your basement, water damage to your home, and mold and mildew growth. In order to prevent this, the float switch located near the indoor evaporator will shut off the system when it detects that the drain line is clogged.