The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems use ductwork to distribute cool air in every room. An air handler that has a filter that captures particulates regulates the airflow.
The unit is typically housed in a small enclosure located 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
While central air conditioners use more energy than wall-mounted units, today’s systems are more efficient than the ones of the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was removed by 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are also continuously creating new technologies that make their systems more efficient and use less energy.
Central AC systems, in contrast to 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 signals that the air handler should begin cycling. The air handler draws warm air from your living spaces and then passes it over the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat contained in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into gas. The refrigerant then gets pumped to the outdoor unit and the compressor increases its temperature and pressure. As it pumps, heat is transferred from the evaporator, and then returned to your home, where it can be cooled and distributed through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes to controlling the temperature in large areas. They can consistently cool rooms that are further apart than a single wall AC unit could, and they offer better energy efficiency in general.
Depending on how well your home is sealed and insulated, and also the layout, you might find that a mini-split will save you even more energy than central air conditioners however. Mini-splits are not the same as central ACs, but they can be more efficient, as they do not rely on ductwork. Ductwork leaks and can make the system overwork to cool your home to the desired temperature. If you’re interested to learn more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, speak to an HVAC specialist at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They can assist you in finding the ideal solution for your requirements.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems are not only efficient and comfortable, they also provide a good variety of convenience. These systems are able to cool the entire house or office in just one unit and don’t require ducts as window units do. They are also usually equipped with top-quality air filters that can help keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is especially beneficial for those suffering from allergies or respiratory conditions.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and for good reason. It’s perfect for homes that already have ductwork and need a powerful cooling solution. These systems are able to deliver cool air to each room with just one vent and can be used with home zone control, which allows you to control your cooling needs in different areas of the home using the help of a smart thermostat.
This is the most common AC system. It works similarly as furnaces. Central air conditioners include an outdoor unit that blows warm air, and a smaller indoor unit that pulls cold or hot air out of the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped out of the air handler through the lines, which absorb heat. The cooled air then is pushed back into air handler and circulated to other rooms through the ductwork.
A central air conditioning system can also reduce humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler will remove excess moisture from your ductwork and release it outside. This will help to stop mold and mildew from growing.
If your current cooling system is approaching 15 years old It’s time to consider replacing it with a brand new and more efficient model. A new, top-quality AC system will save you money on energy bills and help to ensure the integrity of the ductwork of your home. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can assist you in choosing the perfect air conditioner for your needs and budget.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, just like every other major appliance requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Some routine maintenance can be done by the homeowner while other tasks should be left to qualified professionals. Signing up for a maintenance contract is the best way to be on the top of AC problems. These contracts often include discounts on repairs and other advantages, like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser that is dirty will decrease air flow, reduce the efficiency of your system, and increase the cost of energy. To avoid the build-up of debris and dirt shut off the power to your compressor unit prior to you begin cleaning. Then, with the help of a garden hose and cloth, gently scrub the coil fins and blades of your fan to eliminate dirt, twigs and leaves. After cleaning the blades, wipe them with a towel and spray to clean. It is also recommended to straighten out any noticeable bent fins, which may be caused by wind or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner has been in use for more than 10 years, you must engage a professional to check the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines carry refrigerant, and any cracks or rust could cause leaks, which can cause inadequate cooling and expensive costs for utility.
Air Filter
Change your air filter frequently to ensure it is clean and enhance the performance of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter is contingent on the frequency you run the AC, how many pets are in the house and the amount of dust is collected. Generally, a standard air filter lasts for approximately two months or two weeks during the cool season.
Condensate Drain Line
If your condensation drain line is blocked by algae, mold or bugs, the accumulated water on the evaporator coil won’t be able to be flushed away. This can result in a flooded basement, water damage in your home, and even mold and mildew growth. The float switch on your indoor coil will shut off the system when it detects a blockage in the drain line.