The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
A central air conditioning system makes use of ductwork to deliver cool air to every room. Airflow is regulated by an air handler that features a filter to capture particles.
The unit is typically situated in a small enclosure outside the home. Its quiet operation increases your comfort by preventing the constant sound or whir of window AC units from disrupting the peace of your home.
Energy Efficiency
Although central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units, modern systems are more efficient than ones used in the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was eliminated in 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are continuously developing new technologies to help their systems use less energy.
Contrary to window AC units that are specifically designed to cool only the area they’re installed in, central AC systems are able to evenly distribute cool air throughout your entire home with air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat signals that the air handler needs to begin to cycle. The air handler draws warm air from your living spaces and then it is pushed through the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat from the air causes refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into a gas. The compressor then raises the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. As it pumps it, it carries the heat out of the evaporator coil back into the home where it is cooled before being distributed throughout your ductwork.
Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes down to regulating temperature in large spaces. They can consistently cool rooms that are farther away than a single wall AC unit can, and they offer better energy efficiency overall.
It could be that, based on how well insulated and sealed your home is and the layout, a mini-split conditioner will save you more energy than central air cooling. Mini-splits are different from central ACs, however they can be more efficient because they do not rely on ductwork. Ductwork leaks and could make the system overwork in order 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 business. They can assist you in finding the right solution for your requirements.
Convenience
In addition to the energy efficiency and comfort central air conditioning systems offer lots of convenience. They can cool the entire office or home in one unit, and do not require vents like window units. They also typically come with top-quality air filters that can help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those suffering from respiratory conditions or allergies.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. This is a great option for homes with ductwork that require a cooling solution. These systems can cool every room with a single vent. They can also be used with thermostats with zones for homes that allow you to manage the cooling needs of different areas within your house.
This is the most popular type of AC system that operates in a similar manner to a furnace. Central air conditioners comprise an outdoor unit that blasts out warm air, and an indoor air handler that pulls in hot or cold air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through the lines from the air handler and absorbs heat as it goes through the process. The cool air is pushed back to the air handler inside the home and circulated via the ductwork to other rooms.
A further benefit of central air conditioning is that it can also 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 to prevent mold and mildew from growing.
If your current cooling system is approaching 15 years in age it’s time to consider replacing it with a fresh and more efficient model. A new, top-quality AC system will save you money on energy costs and help to safeguard the integrity of the ductwork of your home. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can assist you in selecting the best air conditioner to meet your needs and budget.
Maintenance
Like any major appliance air conditioner, your air conditioner requires regular service to keep running smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be done by the homeowner while other tasks should be handled by licensed professionals. Signing up for a maintenance contract is the best way to stay on the forefront of AC issues. These agreements typically offer discounts on repairs, as well as other benefits, like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser that is dirty will decrease air flow, reduce the efficiency of your system and increase energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, switch off your compressor unit to stop dirt and debris from accumulating. Then, using an outdoor hose and rag, gently clean the blades and coil fins of your fan to eliminate dirt leaves, twigs, and twigs. After washing using a paper towel and spray for sanitation to clean and disinfect the fan blades. Also, straighten any bent fins that may result from 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 connecting the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are filled with refrigerant, and any corrosion or cracks can lead to leaks, which could result in a decrease in cooling and higher cost of energy.
Air Filter
Change your air filter frequently to ensure that it is fresh and improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter is contingent on how often you use the AC and how many pets are living in your home and how much dust gets accumulated. A standard air filter should last for about two weeks to one month during the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the condensation drain line is clogged with mold, algae, snails, or bugs the line won’t flush out the water that’s collected by your evaporator coil during cooling. This can result in flooding of your basement, water damage in your home, and 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.