The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems make use of the ductwork system to distribute cooled air throughout the rooms. An air handler with a filter that captures particulates regulates the airflow.
The unit is usually housed in a small enclosure located outside the home. Its quiet operation increases your comfort by preventing the constant noise or whirr of window AC units from disturbing the peace and quiet of your indoor space.
Energy Efficiency
While it’s true that central air conditioners consume more energy to run than wall-mounted units however, the reality is that modern systems are more efficient than those used in years past. The ozone-depleting refrigerant R22 was phased out in 2006 and was replaced by an eco-friendly product called 410A, and manufacturers are constantly experimenting with new technologies that aid in the reduction of energy.
Central AC systems, unlike window AC units that are designed to cool the space in which they’re placed they can distribute cool air throughout your home using air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat signals that the air handler should begin cycling. The air handler draws warm air from your living spaces, and it passes over the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat that’s in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into gas. The refrigerant then gets pumped to the outdoor unit and the compressor increases its temperature and pressure. As it pumps, the heat is pushed off the evaporator back into your home, where it can be distributed and cooled through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes down to regulating temperatures in large spaces. They can consistently cool rooms that are further from one another than one wall AC unit could, and they offer better energy efficiency in general.
You may find that depending on how well sealed and insulated your home is and also the layout, a mini-split conditioner can save you more energy than central air conditioning. Mini-splits work differently than central AC however, they are usually more efficient due to the fact that they don’t 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 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 help you find the best solution for your needs.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems aren’t only energy efficient and comfortable, they also offer a great amount of convenience. They can cool the entire house or office using just one unit, and do not require ducts as window units do. These systems are also equipped with high-quality filters that help keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is especially beneficial for those who suffer from respiratory issues or allergies.
Central AC is one of the most sought-after kinds of cooling systems, and with good reason. It is ideal for homes with ductwork and need a powerful cooling solution. These systems can cool every room by a single vent. They can also be used in conjunction with thermostats with zones for homes, which allow you to manage the cooling needs of different areas within your house.
This is the most common kind of AC system that functions in a similar way as a furnace. Central air conditioners have a big outdoor unit that blasts out warm air, and a smaller indoor air handler that pulls in hot or cold air through the ductwork. The refrigerant flows from the air handler through lines, which absorb heat. The cooled air is returned to the air handler in the home and circulated via the ductwork into other rooms.
A central air conditioning system can also reduce humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler can remove excess moisture from your ductwork and then release it outside. This helps to prevent mold and mildew growth.
It’s time to upgrade your cooling system if older than 15 years. A new, top-quality AC system will allow you to save money on energy bills and also protect the integrity of your ductwork. To learn more about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, contact us. We can assist you in selecting the best air conditioner to meet your budget and requirements.
Maintenance
As with every major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Some routine maintenance can be performed 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 to a maintenance contract which usually includes discounts on repairs as well as perks like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser unit that is dirty will limit air flow, reduce system efficiency and drive up the cost of energy. To prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris, turn off the power to your compressor unit prior to you begin cleaning. Then with a garden hose, gently clean the coil fins and fan blades to get rid of dirt leaves, twigs and other debris. After cleaning, wipe the blades with a towel and spray to clean. It’s also an excellent idea to straighten any bent fins that could be caused by the wind or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air cooling system has been in operation for more than 10 years, you should employ a professional to examine the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines are filled with refrigerant, and any corrosion or cracks can cause leaks that will result in poor cooling and higher costs for utility.
Air Filter
Replace your air filter on a regular basis to keep it clean and improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency of change varies based 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 will last for about two weeks to one month during the cooler season.
Condensate Drain Line
If your condensation drain line gets blocked by algae, mold or bugs, the accumulated water on the evaporator coil will not be able to flush away. This could result in flooding of your home, water damage and the development of mildew and mold. The float switch in your indoor coil will shut off the system when it detects a clogged drain line.