How to Save Money With a Central Air Conditioning System
Central air conditioning systems can cool large areas and multiple rooms at a time. They function by pushing cooled air into homes through ductwork that can reach up to 21 SEER.
The system draws air from different rooms of the house through return air ducts and filters it, removing lint dust, pet dander, and microscopic contaminants. The system then delivers the cleaned air back to those rooms.
Cost
Based on the size of your home, the type of unit you pick and how energy efficient it is, the cost can vary widely. Consulting an expert in air conditioning is the best way to determine your exact costs. They can assist you to determine the size of unit needed and the amount of ductwork required, among other factors.
The most important thing to consider is whether you’d prefer a split system or a packaged unit. A split system includes components in a couple different locations, whereas an integrated unit contains all of its parts in one outdoor unit. The former will typically cost less than the latter, but it is important to know that split systems can experience problems such as water leaking from the unit or weird sounds emanating from it. These issues are typically caused by clogged drainage lines or a need to recharge refrigerant.
Another aspect is the SEER rating of the new central air conditioning system. The higher the SEER rating is, the more efficient the system is. This could lower your utility bills over time. If you’re thinking of upgrading to a more efficient unit, speak to an installer to find out the savings you could make.
It is also important to be aware that the costs for installation are dependent on the materials and labor. For instance, if having an expert install your new central AC system that requires the installation of ductwork, you must be aware that this will cost more than a replacement system without ducts. Finally, the cost of a new air conditioner can change from year to year due to inflation and changes in energy efficiency standards. For this reason, it is recommended to shop for a unit during the off / low season. This can help you save thousands of dollars on a brand new system.
Efficiency
When purchasing an air conditioner, you should consider the seasonal efficiency ratio (SEER). The SEER rating is determined by the cooling capacity of a unit AC during a normal summer by the total electric energy input for the same period. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the air conditioning system will be. Modern air conditioners are generally more efficient than older models, but the amount of savings will depend on the climate in your area and the size of your home.
A central air conditioning system that is more recent could have a rating of SEER from 10 to 21. Older air conditioners typically have a SEER rating of 10 or less. Although it is still legal to use older models, their performance will be drastically diminished because of wear and tear.
The modern central air conditioning systems are more energy efficient than the older wall or ductless units. They are the most efficient options for homeowners, and offer significant savings in both terms of energy and money. They also include features such as variable speed blowers as well as dual heat exchangers and sophisticated control boards.
The evaporator in an air conditioner is what absorbs and cools air inside your home. The condenser, housed in the outdoor unit, converts the evaporated refrigerant to a liquid by the same method that heat moves from a warmer substance to a cooler substance. The condenser lets the liquid out within the coils of the evaporator where it is cooled to its original state.
If your AC isn’t working as efficiently as it did it should be, you must clean the evaporator coils as well as replace the air filter on a regular basis. Close all doors and windows to keep hot air out of your home. This makes your AC system to work harder to keep a comfortable temperature inside. You can further enhance the performance and efficiency of your central air conditioning system by installing a programmable thermostat. It will automatically shut off your air conditioner when you’re away from home and then it will be turned back on about 30 minutes before you arrive.
Noise
Air conditioning units emit a variety noises when operating normally. Some of them are harmless, while others could be a sign of an issue with the unit. The sounds you hear will help you determine if the unit needs professional attention for repair. The most frequent AC noises are rattling banging, hissing, humming, and screeching.
Hissing sounds are a sign that the system is trying to draw in more air than it can handle. In most cases, this can be addressed by cleaning or replacing the air filter. This simple step will reduce the noise that the air conditioner makes.
Another cause that can cause hissing is a refrigerant leak. This could be extremely dangerous because the leak will allow harmful refrigerant to enter the air. A professional can inspect and repair your unit to prevent this from happening.
The popping or clicking sounds are usually caused by electrical problems within the thermostat or compressor. These sounds can be difficult to determine, particularly if they are constant and loud. If you are hearing these sounds on a regular basis you should get a professional.
Rattling sounds are often caused by debris or loose parts that have made their way into the unit. This could cause components to move around, which can cause the clunking sound. As part of your regular maintenance, it’s important to check loose screws and other parts.
A rattling sound could be a sign that the motor in the fan is wearing out. This can be a costly issue to repair however, it can be prevented by having a professional perform regular maintenance checks.
In certain cases the humming sound can be simply a sign that the compressor is operating. This is usually not a problem, but it can be annoying for homeowners. Installing a blanket for the compressor can help to reduce the sound of humming. A technician can assist you in deciding what option is right for your home. Planting a hedge or plant that block the sound from entering the yard is a different option to reduce the noise. Before erecting any kind of fence it is suggested to test out this method by first fencing a small section of your yard, and then observing how well it works.
Installation
It is important to hire an experienced professional to ensure that the job is done correctly. A new air conditioner is a significant investment. Before you make a final decision it is recommended to get multiple bids from different contractors. Find a contractor that offers competitive prices without cutting corners. Be wary of low bids, as they could be the result substandard materials or poor workmanship.
It is important to choose the right size air conditioner for your home. A larger unit will cool your house quickly, but it will not remove humidity as effectively as a smaller model. A unit that is too small will also be inefficient, resulting in higher energy bills.
The cost of a central AC installation is contingent on a variety of factors, including the kind of unit you choose and your home’s square footage. Before installing AC, it is recommended to have a professional measure your home. This will help you determine the number of units needed and how long the installation process will take.
Central air systems use ductwork to circulate cool air throughout your home. They are made up of two primary components that are an outdoor condenser and an indoor air handler. The condenser and compressor are situated in the outdoor unit, while the evaporator coil is located inside the air handler. If you have a large house, a split system is the best option. The condenser, compressor and air handler are located in the outdoor unit.
It is possible to install central air conditioning when you already have ductwork. However, some changes may be required before the installation can begin. Spray foam or reflective wrap should be used to insulate ducts. This will stop the loss of heat. It is also recommended to put insulation on any not being used pipes in crawl spaces or attics.
Choose a model with a high rating of SEER in the case of central air conditioning systems. This will save you money in the long run and lower your energy bills. You could also qualify for federal rebates which will offset the cost of an energy-efficient AC unit.