The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems use the ductwork system to distribute cooled air in every room. Airflow is regulated by an air handler which includes a filter for capturing particles.
The unit is usually housed in a small enclosure outside the home. Its noiseless operation enhances your comfort by preventing the constant noise or whirr of window AC units from disturbing indoor serenity.
Energy Efficiency
While central air conditioners use 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 removed in 2006 and replaced by 410A. Manufacturers are also continuously creating new technologies to help their systems use less energy.
Central AC systems, unlike window AC units that are designed to cool the space in which they’re installed, can distribute cool air throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signalizes the air handler to start the process of cycling. The air handler pulls hot air from your home and then passes it through the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat from the air causes refrigerant absorb energy, and then transform into a gas. The compressor then raises the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. As it pumps it pushes the heat off of the evaporator coil and back into the home to be cooled and distributed through your ductwork again.
The fact is that central AC systems are the most efficient choice for regulating the temperature of large areas. They can cool rooms that are further apart than a single AC unit, and they have better energy efficiency.
Depending on how well your home is sealed and insulated, and also the layout, you might find that a mini-split could save you more energy than central air conditioning however. Mini-splits work differently than central AC however, they are usually more efficient because they don’t rely on ductwork, which could leak and cause the system to over-work to bring your home up to the desired temperature. Talk to an HVAC expert from your local Dallas heating company if want to know more about energy efficient solutions for cooling your home. They can assist you in finding the right solution for your requirements.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems are not only efficient and comfortable, but they also offer a great amount of convenience. They can cool the entire house or office with just one unit and do not require ducts like window units do. They are also usually equipped with high-quality air filters which can help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who suffer from allergies or respiratory ailments.
Central AC is one of the most well-known types of cooling systems, and with good reason. This is a great option for homes with ductwork and need an effective cooling solution. These systems are able to deliver cool air to each room with just one vent and can be used with home zoning, which allows you to control the cooling requirements in different areas of your home with a smart thermostat.
This is the most commonly used AC system. It works similarly as furnaces. Central air conditioners are comprised of 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 of the air handler, and it absorbs heat in the process. The cool air is pushed back to the air handler in the home and circulated through the ductwork to other rooms.
Central air conditioning systems can also reduce humidity. This is particularly important in our humid climate. The air handler will take excess moisture from your ductwork and then release it to the outside. This helps prevent mold and mildew growth.
If your current cooling system is nearing 15 years in age, it’s time to consider replacing it with a fresh and improved model. A new, top-quality AC system will save you money on energy costs and also help ensure the integrity of the ductwork of your home. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can help you select the right air conditioner to meet your budget and needs.
Maintenance
Like every major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular maintenance to run smoothly. Certain maintenance tasks that are routine can be handled by the homeowner while others should be 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 advantages 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. To avoid the build-up of debris and dirt, turn off the power supply to your compressor unit prior to you begin cleaning. Then using a garden hose, gently wash the coil fins and fan blades to remove dirt leaves, twigs, twigs and other debris. After cleaning the blades, wipe them using a paper towel and spray to clean. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins that may be caused by winds, or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, you must consult a professional to 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 cracks or corrosion can lead to leaks, which can result in inadequate cooling and higher cost of energy.
Air Filter
To enhance the performance of your AC system, you should change your air filter regularly. The frequency of changing your air filter will depend on how often you use the AC and how many pets reside in the home and how much dust accumulates. A typical air filter will last for about two weeks to one month during the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If your condensation drain line is blocked by algae, mold or bugs, the water collected on the evaporator coil won’t be able to flush away. This could result in flooding of your home, water damage, and the development of mildew and mold. To prevent this from happening the float switch near the indoor evaporator will stop the system when it detects that the drain line is blocked.