The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

Central air conditioning utilizes ductwork to bring cooled air to each room. An air handler that has an air filter that collects particles regulates the airflow.

The unit is typically housed in a small enclosure outside the home. Its noiseless operation enhances your comfort by preventing constant noise or whirr of window AC units from disrupting the peace and quiet of your indoor space.

Energy Efficiency

Central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units, modern systems are more efficient than ones used in the past. The ozone-depleting refrigerant R22 was eliminated in 2006 and replaced with an environmentally friendly product known as 410A Manufacturers are constantly experimenting with new technologies that help their systems consume less energy.

Central AC systems, unlike window AC units that are designed to cool only the room within which they’re located, can spread cool air evenly throughout your home using air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat tells the air handler to begin the process of cycling. The air handler draws warm air from your living space and then passes it over the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy, and then turn 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.

The truth is that central AC systems are the most efficient choice in managing the temperature of large areas. They can consistently cool rooms that are farther apart than a single wall AC unit can and also provide better energy efficiency in general.

Depending on how well your home is insulated and sealed, and the layout of your home, you might find that a mini-split system will save you even more energy than central air conditioners, though. Mini-splits differ from central ACs, but they are more efficient, as they don’t use the 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 for cooling your home, talk with an HVAC professional at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning business. They’ll be able to help you choose the best solution for your requirements.

Convenience

Central air conditioning systems are not only energy efficient and comfortable, but they also offer a great amount of convenience. These systems can cool the entire office or home in one unit and don’t require vents like window units. These systems are also equipped with high-quality filters to help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those who suffer from respiratory issues or allergies.

Central AC is one of the most sought-after kinds of cooling systems, and with good reason. It’s ideal for homes that already have ductwork and need a powerful cooling solution. These systems can cool every room by a single vent. They can also be paired with thermostats with zones for homes that allow you to control the cooling needs of different rooms in your home.

This is the most common AC system. It functions in a similar way to furnaces. A central air conditioner has a big outdoor unit that blows out warm air, and an indoor air handler that pulls in cold or hot air through the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped from the air handler through the lines, which absorb heat. The cooled air is pushed back into the air handler before being circulated to other rooms through the ductwork.

Central air conditioning systems can also reduce humidity. This is particularly important in our humid climate. The air handler is able to remove excess moisture and then let it out, which helps to prevent the development of mold and mildew in your ductwork.

If your current cooling system is getting close to 15 years old it’s time to think about replacing it with a new and more efficient model. A new, top-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 assist you in selecting the right air conditioner for your budget and needs.

Maintenance

Just like any major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular service to keep running smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be handled by the homeowner, while others should be left to licensed professionals. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance contract, which often comes with a discount on repairs and perks like priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A condenser that is dirty can reduce air flow, reduce the efficiency of your system, and increase energy costs. To avoid the build-up of dirt and debris switch off the power to the compressor unit prior to when you begin cleaning. Then using a garden hose, gently wash the fan blades and coil fins to get rid of dirt leaves, twigs and other debris. After cleaning, wipe the blades with a towel and spray for sanitation. It is also a good idea to straighten any bent fins, which could be caused by wind or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air conditioner has been in use for more than 10 years, it is recommended to hire a professional to inspect the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines are filled with refrigerant and any corrosion or cracks can cause leaks that will result in poor cooling and higher cost of energy.

Air Filter

Change your air filter frequently to ensure it is clean and enhance the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency will vary based on how often your AC runs, the number of furry family members and how much dust is accumulated in your home. Generally, a standard air filter will last for around two weeks or a month in the cooler months.

Condensate Drain Line

If the drain line for condensation is blocked by algae, mold, snails, or bugs the line won’t flush out the water that’s collected by your evaporator coil in cooling. This could result in flooding of your home, water damage, and the growth of mildew and mold. To avoid this, the float switch located near the indoor evaporator will stop the system when it determines that the drain line has become blocked.