The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems make use of the ductwork system to distribute cooled air throughout the rooms. Airflow is controlled by an air handler that features a filter to capture particles.
The unit is typically located in a small enclosure that is outside the home. Its quiet operation increases your peace by preventing the constant hum or whir of window AC units from disrupting the peace and quiet of your indoor space.
Energy Efficiency
Although central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units, modern systems are more efficient than ones of the past. The ozone-depleting refrigerant R22 was phased out in 2006 and has been replaced by an eco-friendly product called 410A, and manufacturers are constantly experimenting with new technologies to enable their systems to use less energy.
In contrast to window AC units that are specifically designed to cool 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 must start cycling. The air handler draws warm air from your living space, and it passes over the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into gas. This refrigerant is then pumped to the outdoor unit, where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. When it pumps, it pushes the heat off of the evaporator coil back into the house where it is cooled before being distributed throughout your ductwork.
The fact is that central AC systems are the most efficient option in regulating the temperature of large spaces. They are able to continuously cool rooms that are farther from one another than one wall AC unit could and provide greater energy efficiency overall.
It could be that, based on the level of insulation and sealing your home is, as well as the arrangement, a mini-split air conditioner will save you more energy than central air cooling. Mini-splits function differently than central AC, but they’re often more efficient due to the fact that they do not rely on ductwork which could leak and result in the system working too hard to keep your home at the desired temperature. If you’re interested to learn more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, talk with an HVAC specialist at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They’ll be able to assist you choose the best solution for your particular requirements.
Convenience
In addition to the energy efficiency and comfort central air conditioning systems also provide a lot of convenience. They can cool your entire home or business with only one unit and don’t need ducts like window units. They’re also generally equipped with high-quality air filters which can help keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is especially helpful for those suffering from respiratory issues or allergies.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. It’s perfect for homes that already have ductwork and require a reliable cooling solution. These systems are able to deliver cool air to each room from a single vent. They can also be paired with home zone control, which allows you to regulate your cooling requirements in various areas of the home using an intelligent thermostat.
This is the most common type of AC system that operates in a similar way as a furnace. A central air conditioner has a big outdoor unit that blows warm air, and a smaller indoor air handler that pulls in cold or hot air through the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through the lines of the air handler and absorbs heat in the process. The cooled air is then returned to the air handler in the home and circulated via the ductwork to other rooms.
An added benefit of central air conditioning is that it may help to reduce humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler will take excess moisture from your ductwork and release it outside. This will help to stop mold and mildew growth.
If your current cooling system is nearing 15 years old, it’s time to think about replacing it with a fresh and improved model. A new, high quality AC system will allow you to 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 help you choose the perfect air conditioner for your needs and budget.
Maintenance
Like every major appliance air conditioner, your air conditioner 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 often comes with a discount on repairs and advantages such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser that is dirty can reduce air flow, reduce the efficiency of your system, and increase the cost of energy. Before you begin cleaning, turn off the compressor unit to avoid dirt and debris from accumulating. Then, using the help of a garden hose and sponge, gently clean the blades and coil fins of your fan to get rid of dirt leaves, twigs and twigs. After cleaning the blades, wipe them with a towel and spray to clean. Also, straighten any bent fins that could have been caused by wind, or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, you should consult a professional to inspect the lines, 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 cracks or corrosion can lead to leaks, which can result in inadequate cooling and higher cost of energy.
Air Filter
Change your air filter regularly to ensure that it is clean and improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter is contingent on the frequency you run the AC and how many furry family members are in the house and how much dust is collected. Generally, a standard air filter will last for about two weeks or a month in the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the line that drains condensation is blocked by algae, mold or snails the line won’t flush out the water that’s collected by your evaporator coil during cooling. This can lead to flooding in your basement, water damage in your home, and even mold and mildew growth. To prevent this from happening, the float switch located close to your indoor evaporator coil will shut off the system if it senses that the drain line is clogged.