The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems utilize ductwork to distribute cooled air throughout each room. A air handler equipped with filters that trap particulates regulates airflow.
The unit is typically located in a small enclosure that is outside the house. Its quiet operation improves your comfort by preventing the constant sound or whir of window AC units from disrupting the peace of your home.
Energy Efficiency
Central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units, today’s systems are more efficient than models of the past. The Ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was removed in 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are continually creating new technologies to make their systems more efficient and use less energy.
Contrary to window AC units designed to cool just the room they’re mounted in, central AC systems can evenly distribute cool air throughout your home using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signals that the air handler should start cycling. The air handler pulls hot air from your home, then passes it over the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat that’s in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and turn 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 then back into the home, where it’s cooled and circulated through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes to regulating temperatures in large spaces. They can cool rooms that are farther apart than a single AC unit, and they have better energy efficiency.
You might find that based on the level of insulation and sealing your home is and also the arrangement, a mini-split air conditioner will use less energy than central air cooling. Mini-splits operate differently than central AC, but they’re often more efficient since they do not rely on ductwork which can leak and cause the system to over-work in order to keep your home at the desired temperature. Contact an HVAC professional from your local Dallas heating company if you want to learn more about energy-efficient options for cooling your house. They’ll be able to help you select the most efficient solution for your specific needs.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems aren’t only energy efficient and comfortable, they also offer a great amount of convenience. These systems can cool the entire home or business with one unit and don’t require vents like window units. They also come with high-quality filters that help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those suffering from allergies or respiratory conditions.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. It is ideal for homes that already have ductwork and need a powerful cooling solution. These systems can deliver cool air to each room from a single vent. They can also be used with home zoning, which allows you to regulate your cooling needs in different areas of the home using the help of a smart thermostat.
This is the most common AC system. It functions similarly 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 out of the air handler through the lines, taking in heat. The cooled air is returned to the air handler in the home and circulated through the ductwork to other rooms.
A further benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it may help to reduce humidity. This is particularly important in our humid climate. The air handler will take excess moisture from your ductwork and release it to the outside. This helps prevent the growth of mildew and mold.
If your current cooling system is getting close to 15 years in age, it’s time to consider replacing it with a new and better model. A new, high-end AC system will allow you to reduce your energy bills as well as safeguard 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 budget and needs.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, just like every other major appliance needs regular maintenance to run smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be performed by the homeowner, while other chores should be handled by certified experts. Signing up for a maintenance contract is the best method to keep on the forefront of AC issues. These agreements usually include discounts on repairs, as well as other benefits, 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. Before you begin cleaning, turn off the compressor unit to avoid dirt and debris from accumulating. Then, with an outdoor hose and cloth, gently scrub the blades and fins of your fan to remove dirt, twigs and leaves. After washing, wipe the blades with a paper towel and a sanitation spray. It is also an excellent idea to straighten out any noticeable bent fins, which could be caused by the wind or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is over 10 years old, it is recommended to consult a professional to inspect the lines, the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil with the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are filled with refrigerant. any cracks or corrosion can lead to leaks, which will result in poor cooling and more expensive costs for utility.
Air Filter
To improve the performance of your AC system, change your air filter on a regular basis. The frequency of change varies based on how often the AC runs, the number of furry family members, and how much dust your home collects. A typical air filter will last between two weeks and one month during the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for condensation is blocked by algae, mold or snails, it can’t flush away the water collected by your evaporator unit during cooling. This can cause a flooded home, water damage and the development of mildew and mold. To avoid this the float switch near your indoor evaporator coil will shut off the system if it senses that the drain line has become blocked.