The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
A central air conditioning system makes use of ductwork to deliver cool air to all rooms. Airflow is controlled by an air handler that includes a filter for capturing particles.
The unit is typically situated in a small enclosure that is outside the home. Its noiseless operation enhances your comfort by preventing constant sound or whir of window AC units from disrupting the peace and quiet of your indoor space.
Energy Efficiency
While it’s true that central air conditioners consume more energy to operate than a wall-mounted unit however, the reality is that today’s systems are more efficient than those in the past. The ozone-depleting refrigerant R22 was eliminated in 2006 and has been replaced with an environmentally friendly product called 410A Manufacturers are constantly developing new technologies to help their systems consume less energy.
Contrary to window AC units, which are designed to cool just the room in which they are installed, central AC systems can distribute cool air throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat tells you that the air handler must start cycling. The air handler draws hot air from your home and then passes it over the evaporator, which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and turn into gas. This refrigerant is then pumped to the outdoor unit and the compressor increases its temperature and pressure. When it pumps, the heat is pushed away from the evaporator and back into your home, where it can be cooled and distributed through the ductwork.
The fact is that central AC systems are the most efficient choice for managing the temperature of large areas. They can consistently cool rooms that are farther from one another than one wall AC unit can and also provide better energy efficiency overall.
You might find that based on how well sealed and insulated your home is and also the layout, a mini-split conditioner will use less energy than central air conditioning. Mini-splits are not the same as central ACs, however they are more efficient because they don’t use the ductwork. Ductwork leaks can cause the system overwork to cool your home to the desired temperature. If you’re interested in finding out 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 help you choose the best solution for your needs.
Convenience
In addition to energy efficiency and comfort, central air conditioning systems offer a lot of convenience. These systems can cool the entire office or home in one unit and don’t require vents like window units. They also typically come with high-quality air filters that can help to keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is especially helpful for people suffering from allergies or respiratory ailments.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. This is a great option for homes with ductwork and need an effective cooling solution. These systems are able to provide cool air to every room through a single vent. They can also be paired with home zone control, which allows you to regulate your cooling requirements in various parts of the house with a smart thermostat.
This is the most common AC system. It works in a similar way similar to furnaces. Central air conditioners have a large outdoor unit that blows warm air, and a smaller indoor unit that pulls hot or cold air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped from the air handler via lines, taking in heat. The cool air is pushed back into air handler and it is then circulated to other rooms via the ductwork.
An added benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it can help to reduce humidity. This is particularly important in our humid climate. The air handler can remove excess moisture from your ductwork and then release it outside. This helps to prevent mold and mildew growth.
It’s time to replace your cooling system if older than 15 years. A new, high quality AC system will help you save money on energy costs as well as protect the integrity of your ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can assist you in choosing the right air conditioner for your needs and budget.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, as every other major appliance requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Some routine maintenance can be done by the homeowner however, other tasks should be left to licensed professionals. Signing an agreement for maintenance is the best way to be on top of AC problems. These agreements usually include discounts on repairs, as well as other benefits, like 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 dirt and debris, turn off the power to the compressor unit prior to when you begin cleaning. Then, using an outdoor hose and cloth, gently scrub the coil fins and blades of your fan to remove dirt leaves, twigs and twigs. After cleaning the blades, wipe them clean using a paper towel and spray to clean. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins that could be caused by the wind 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, the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil and the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines carry refrigerant and any cracks or rust can cause leaks that can result in inadequate cooling and expensive costs for utility.
Air Filter
Change your air filter regularly to keep it fresh and improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency of change varies based on the frequency at which the AC runs, the amount of furry family members and the amount of dust your home collects. A typical air filter should last between two weeks and one month during the cooler season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the condensation drain line is clogged with mold, algae or snails, it can’t flush away the water collected by your evaporator unit during cooling. This can lead to flooding of your basement, water damage in your home, as well as mold and mildew growth. In order to prevent this, the float switch located near your indoor evaporator coil will shut off the system when it detects that the drain line is blocked.