The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

A central air conditioning system makes use of ductwork to deliver cool air to all rooms. A air handler equipped with a filter that captures particulates regulates the airflow.

The unit is usually housed in a small enclosure that is outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation will enhance your comfort, as it will prevent the constant hum and whirrrr of window AC units from disrupting indoor serenity.

Energy Efficiency

While it’s true that central air conditioners consume more energy to run than wall-mounted units but the truth is that today’s systems are much more efficient than those used in years past. The Ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was eliminated by 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are continuously creating new technologies to aid in the use of less energy.

Contrary to window AC units designed to cool just the area they’re installed in central AC systems can distribute cool air throughout your entire home by using air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat signals that the air handler must begin cycling. The air handler pulls warm air from your living areas and then passes it over the evaporator coil, which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat that’s in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into a gas. The refrigerant is then transported to the outdoor unit which is where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. When it pumps it, it carries the heat out of the evaporator coil and back into the house where it is cooled before being distributed throughout your ductwork.

Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes to controlling temperatures in large spaces. They can consistently cool rooms that are further apart than a single wall AC unit can and also provide better energy efficiency in general.

You may find that depending on how well insulated and sealed your home is and the arrangement, a mini-split air conditioner will save you more energy than central air cooling. Mini-splits function differently than central AC however, they are usually more efficient because they don’t rely on ductwork, which could leak and cause the system to over-work to bring your home up to the desired temperature. If you’re interested to learn more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, you should talk to an HVAC expert at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They’ll be able to assist you select the right solution for your requirements.

Convenience

In addition to energy efficiency and comfort, central air conditioning systems offer a lot of convenience. They can cool your entire business or home with one unit, and do not require ducts like window units. These systems are also equipped with high-quality filters that keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is especially beneficial for those who suffer from respiratory or allergies.

Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. This is an excellent option for homes with ductwork and need an effective cooling solution. These systems can cool all rooms with a single vent. They can also be used with thermostats with zones for homes, which allow you to manage the cooling needs of different areas in your house.

This is the most common AC system. It operates in a similar fashion as furnaces. Central air conditioners are comprised of an outdoor unit that blasts warm air and a smaller inside unit that pulls cold or hot air out of the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped from the air handler through the lines, absorbing heat. The cooled air is pumped back into the air handler before being it is then circulated to other rooms via the ductwork.

An added benefit of central air conditioning is that it may aid in reducing humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler is able to remove excess moisture and then release it outside which prevents the growth of mildew and mold in your ductwork.

It’s time to replace your cooling system if it is older than 15 years. A new, top-quality AC system will allow you to save money on energy costs and also protect the integrity of your ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your budget and needs.

Maintenance

As with every 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 left to qualified experts. The best way to avoid getting caught up of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance contract which usually includes discounts on repairs and perks like priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A condenser unit that is dirty can limit air flow, reduce system efficiency and drive up the cost of energy. To avoid the build-up of dirt and other debris, turn off the power to your compressor unit prior to you begin cleaning. Then with a garden hose, gently wash the fan blades and coil fins to remove dirt leaves, twigs and other debris. After washing the blades, wipe them clean using a paper towel and a sanitation spray. It is also a good idea to straighten out any noticeable bent fins, which could be caused by the wind or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, you must have a professional inspect the lines, the copper tubes connecting 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 lead to leaks, which could result in a decrease in cooling and more expensive cost of energy.

Air Filter

Change your air filter frequently to ensure that it is clean and enhance the performance of your air conditioning system. The frequency of change varies based on the frequency at which the AC runs, the amount of furry members in your family, and how much dust your home collects. A typical air filter lasts for approximately two months or two weeks during the cooler months.

Condensate Drain Line

If the line that drains condensation is blocked by mold, algae or snails the line won’t flush out the water that is collected by your evaporator coil during cooling. This could lead to flooding of your basement, water damage in your home, as well as mold and mildew growth. The float switch near your indoor coil will shut down the system if it detects a clogged drain line.