The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems make use of ductwork to distribute cooled air in every room. Airflow is controlled by an air handler which has a filter that is used to remove particulates.
The unit is usually placed 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 disturbing the peace and quiet of your indoor space.
Energy Efficiency
While central air conditioners use more energy than wall-mounted units do, modern systems are more efficient than ones used in the past. The ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was phased out in 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are also continually developing new technologies to make their systems more efficient and use less energy.
Central AC systems, in contrast to window AC units, which are designed to cool only the room in which they’re installed, can distribute 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 pulls warm air from your living space, and it passes over the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat from the air causes refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into gas. The compressor then increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. When it pumps, the heat is pushed away 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 down to controlling the temperature in large areas. They can cool rooms that are further away from a single AC unit and have greater energy efficiency.
You may find that depending on how well sealed and insulated your home is and the layout, a mini-split air conditioner will save you more energy than central air conditioning. Mini-splits operate differently than central AC, but they’re often more efficient since they do not rely on ductwork which could leak and cause the system to over-work in order to bring your home up to the desired temperature. If you’re interested in learning more about energy-efficient options for cooling your home, talk with an HVAC specialist at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning business. They’ll be able to assist you choose the best solution for your specific requirements.
Convenience
In addition to comfort and energy efficiency central air conditioning systems offer many benefits. These systems can cool the entire business or home with one unit and don’t require ducts like window units. They are also fitted with high-quality filters that keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those who suffer from allergies or respiratory conditions.
Central AC is one of the most sought-after kinds of cooling systems and with good reason. It’s perfect for homes with ductwork and require a reliable cooling solution. These systems can deliver cool air to each room with just one vent. They can also be paired with home zoning, which allows you to manage the cooling requirements in different parts of the house with an intelligent thermostat.
This is the most commonly used AC system. It operates in a similar fashion to furnaces. A central air conditioner has a big outdoor unit that blows warm air, and a smaller indoor air handler that draws in hot or cold air through the ductwork. The refrigerant flows from the air handler via lines, absorbing heat. The cooled air is pushed back to the air handler inside the home and circulated through the ductwork to other rooms.
Central air conditioning systems can also help reduce humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler can eliminate excess moisture and then release it outside to stop the growth of mold and mildew in your ductwork.
If your cooling system is getting close to 15 years in age it’s time to consider replacing it with a brand new and more efficient model. A new, high-quality AC system will save you money on energy costs and also help ensure the integrity of the ductwork of your home. To find out more about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, please contact us. We can help you choose the best air conditioner to meet your budget and requirements.
Maintenance
Just like any major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular maintenance to run smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be done by the homeowner while other tasks should be left to certified experts. The best way to avoid getting caught up of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance agreement which usually includes discounts on repairs as well as benefits such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A dirty condenser will reduce air flow, decrease the efficiency of your system, and increase the cost of energy. To prevent the accumulation of debris and dirt shut off the power to your compressor unit prior to you begin cleaning. Then, using a garden hose, gently clean the fan blades and coil fins to remove dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris. After washing the blades, wipe them with a towel and a sanitation spray. It’s also a good idea to straighten any bent fins, which could be caused by wind or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner has been in use for more than 10 years, it is recommended to hire a professional to inspect the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil and the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines are filled with refrigerant. any corrosion or cracks can lead to leaks, which will result in poor cooling and higher utility bills.
Air Filter
To increase the efficiency of your AC system, you should change your air filter regularly. The frequency varies depending on how often the AC runs, the amount of furry members in your family, and how much dust you collect in your home. A typical air filter will last for about two weeks or a month in the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the condensation drain line is blocked by mold, algae or snails the line won’t flush out the water collected by your evaporator unit during cooling. This can lead to a flooded basement, water damage to your home, and mold and mildew growth. To avoid this, the float switch located near your indoor evaporator coil will shut off the system when it determines that the drain line has become blocked.