The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems make use of ductwork to distribute cooled air throughout each room. Airflow is regulated by an air handler which has a filter that is used to remove particles.
The unit is typically located in a small enclosure outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation will enhance your comfort as it will stop the constant hum and whirrr of window AC units from disrupting your indoor peace.
Energy Efficiency
Although central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units do, modern systems are more efficient than ones used in the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was removed in 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are also continually creating new technologies to aid in the use of less energy.
Central AC systems, in contrast to window AC units, which are made to cool only the room in which they’re installed they can spread cool air evenly throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat signals that the air handler needs to begin cycling. The air handler draws hot air from your home and then passes it over the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and turn into a gas. This refrigerant is then pumped to the outdoor unit, where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. When it pumps, the heat is pushed off the evaporator, and then returned to your home, where it can be distributed and cooled through the ductwork.
The truth is that central AC systems are the most efficient option when it comes to controlling the temperature of large areas. They can cool rooms that are further apart than a single AC unit and also have higher energy efficiency.
You may find that depending on how well sealed and insulated your home is and also the layout, a mini-split air conditioner will save you more energy than central air cooling. Mini-splits work differently than central AC however they’re usually more efficient due to the fact that they don’t rely on ductwork, which can leak and cause the system to over-work to keep your home at the desired temperature. If you’re interested to learn more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, you should talk to an HVAC professional at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning business. They’ll be able to help you select the right solution for your needs.
Convenience
In addition to energy efficiency and comfort, central air conditioning systems provide lots of convenience. These systems can cool the entire home or business with one unit, and do not require ducts like window units. They are also usually equipped with high-quality air filters that can help to keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is especially helpful for individuals who suffer from allergies or respiratory issues.
Central AC is one of the most sought-after types of cooling systems, and for good reason. It is a great choice for homes with ductwork that require a cooling solution. These systems are able to provide cool air to every room from a single vent and can be used with home zone control, which allows you to control your cooling requirements in various areas of the home using a smart thermostat.
This is the most popular type of AC system and operates in a similar manner as a furnace. Central air conditioners have a large outdoor unit that blasts warm air, and a smaller indoor unit that pulls hot or cold air out of the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through the lines from the air handler and absorbs heat during the process. The cooled air is pushed back to the air handler in the home, and circulated through the ductwork into 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 remove excess moisture from your ductwork and then release it to the outside. This helps to prevent mold and mildew growth.
If your cooling system is nearing 15 years in age, it’s time to consider replacing it with a brand new and improved model. A new, high quality AC system will help you save money on energy costs as well as safeguard the integrity of your ductwork. To find out more about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, please contact us. We can assist you in selecting the right air conditioner to meet your budget and needs.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, just like any other major appliance requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Certain maintenance tasks that are routine can be performed by the homeowner while others are best left to certified professionals. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance agreement that usually comes with a discount on repairs and perks like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A dirty condenser unit will restrict air flow, reduce system efficiency, and increase the cost of energy. To prevent a build-up of dirt and debris, turn off the power supply to the compressor unit prior to when you begin cleaning. Then, with a garden hose and a rag, gently clean the blades and fins of your fan to remove dirt, twigs and leaves. After washing the blades, wipe them with a towel and spray for sanitation. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins that may have been caused by the wind or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, you must consult a professional to inspect the line sets, the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil and the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are filled with refrigerant, and any cracks or corrosion can result in leaks, which will result in poor cooling and more expensive cost of energy.
Air Filter
To improve the performance of your AC system, make sure you change your air filter on a regular basis. The frequency of changing your air filter depends on the frequency you run the AC and how many furry family members are in the home, and how much dust is collected. A standard air filter should last for about two weeks to one month during the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for condensation is blocked by algae, mold or snails it won’t be able to flush out the water that’s collected by your evaporator unit during cooling. This could lead to flooding in your basement, water damage to your home, as well as mold and mildew growth. In order to prevent this the float switch near the indoor evaporator will shut off the system when it senses that the drain line is blocked.