The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning uses ductwork to deliver cooled air to all rooms. A air handler equipped with a filter that captures particulates regulates the airflow.
The unit is usually housed in a small enclosure that is outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation will enhance your comfort, since it will keep the constant hum and whirrr of window AC units from disrupting indoor serenity.
Energy Efficiency
While it’s true that central air conditioners consume more energy to operate than a wall-mounted unit but the truth is that modern systems are more efficient than the ones used in the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was eliminated by 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are constantly developing new technologies to aid in the use of less energy.
Central AC systems, unlike window AC units, which are designed to cool only the area within which they’re located they can spread cool air evenly throughout your home by using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signalizes the air handler to start running. The air handler draws warm air from your living areas and then it is pushed through the evaporator coil, which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat contained in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and 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 house where it is cooled before being distributed throughout your ductwork.
The reality is that central AC systems are the most efficient choice for managing the temperature of large spaces. They can cool rooms that are further from one AC unit and also have higher energy efficiency.
Depending on how well your home is sealed and insulated, as well as its layout it’s possible that a mini-split unit can save you even more energy than central air conditioning, though. Mini-splits are different from central ACs, but they are more efficient because they don’t require ductwork. Ductwork leaks and could make the system overwork in order to cool your home to the desired temperature. Talk to an HVAC expert from your local Dallas heating company if you want to know more about energy-efficient options for cooling your home. They’ll be able to assist you select the right solution for your particular needs.
Convenience
In addition to energy efficiency and comfort central air conditioning systems also provide many benefits. 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 to keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly beneficial for people suffering from allergies or respiratory ailments.
Central AC is one of the most sought-after kinds of cooling systems, and for good reason. It’s perfect for homes that already have ductwork and require a reliable cooling solution. These systems can cool all rooms with just one vent. They can also be used in conjunction with home zoned thermostats that allow you to regulate the cooling requirements of different areas in your house.
This is the most popular AC system. It works in a similar way similar to furnaces. Central air conditioners have a large outdoor unit that blasts warm air, and a smaller indoor unit that pulls hot or cold air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped from the air handler through the lines, taking in heat. The cooled air is pumped back into the air handler and is circulated to other rooms via the ductwork.
A central air conditioning system can also reduce humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler is able to remove excess moisture and let it out, which helps to prevent the growth of mildew and mold within your ductwork.
It’s time to upgrade your cooling system if older than 15 years. A new, top-quality AC system will help you reduce your energy bills as well as 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 requirements.
Maintenance
Just like any major appliance air conditioner, your air conditioner requires regular service to keep running smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be completed by homeowners, while others should be left to licensed experts. The best way to avoid getting caught up of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance agreement, which often comes with discounts on repairs and perks like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A dirty condenser will reduce air flow, reduce the efficiency of your system and increase energy costs. To prevent a build-up of dirt and debris switch off the power to your compressor unit prior to you begin cleaning. Then, using 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 washing, use a paper towel and a spray of sanitation to wipe and sanitize the fan blades. It is also a good idea to straighten any bent fins, which may be caused by wind or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, you must have a professional inspect the line sets, as well as the copper tubes connecting the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil with the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are a conduit for refrigerant and any cracks or rust can cause leaks, which can lead to low cooling and costly cost of energy.
Air Filter
To increase the efficiency of your AC system, make sure you change your air filter on a regular basis. The frequency varies depending on the frequency at which the AC is running, the number of furry family members, and how much dust your home collects. A typical air filter should last for about two weeks to a month in the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the line that drains condensation is blocked by mold, algae, snails, or bugs, it can’t flush away the water collected by your evaporator coil in cooling. This can lead to a flooded basement, water damage in your home, as well as mold and mildew growth. To prevent this from happening the float switch near your indoor evaporator coil will shut off the system when it detects that the drain line is clogged.