The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems use ductwork to distribute cooled air throughout the rooms. The flow of air is controlled by an air handler that features a filter to capture particles.
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 whirrr of window AC units from disrupting indoor serenity.
Energy Efficiency
Although it is true that central air conditioners require more energy to operate than wall-mounted units but the truth is that modern systems are more efficient than those used in years ago. The refrigerant that depletes the ozone R22 was phased out in 2006 and has been replaced by a green product called 410A and manufacturers are constantly experimenting with new technologies to help their systems consume less energy.
Central AC systems, unlike window AC units, which are designed to cool the space within which they’re located can spread cool air evenly throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signalizes the air handler to begin running. The air handler draws warm air from your living space and then it is pushed through the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat that’s in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy, and then turn into gas. This refrigerant is then pumped to the outdoor unit, where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. As it pumps, heat is pushed off the evaporator, and then returned to your home, where it can be cooled again and distributed through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes down to regulating temperatures in 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.
Depending on how well your house is insulated and sealed, as well as its layout it’s possible that a mini-split could save you more energy than central air conditioners, though. Mini-splits are different from central ACs, but they are more efficient since they don’t use ductwork. Ductwork leaks and could cause the system to overwork to cool your home to the desired temperature. If you’re interested to learn more about energy-efficient options for cooling your home, talk with an HVAC expert at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They can assist you in finding the right solution for your needs.
Convenience
In addition to the energy efficiency and comfort central air conditioning systems provide lots of convenience. They can cool your entire business or home with one unit, and do not require ducts as window units do. They are also usually equipped with high-quality air filters which can help to keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those who suffer from respiratory or allergies.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and for good reason. This is an excellent option for homes with ductwork that require an effective cooling solution. These systems can provide cool air to every room with just one vent. They can also be used with home zoning, which permits you to regulate your cooling needs in different parts of the house with an intelligent thermostat.
This is the most popular kind of AC system and operates similarly to furnaces. A central air conditioner has an outdoor unit that blasts out warm air and a smaller indoor air handler that draws in hot or cold air through the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped from the air handler through the lines, taking in heat. The cool air is pumped back into the air handler, and then it is then circulated to other rooms via the ductwork.
A central air conditioning system can also help reduce humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler will remove excess moisture from your ductwork, and release it to the outside. This helps to prevent mold and mildew growth.
If your current cooling system is getting close to 15 years in age, it’s time to think about replacing it with a fresh and improved model. A new, top-quality AC system will help you save money on energy bills and help to protect the integrity of your home’s 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
Your air conditioner, just like any other major appliance, needs regular maintenance to run smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be completed by the homeowner while others are best left to licensed experts. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign to a maintenance contract which usually includes a discount on repairs and advantages such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser unit that is dirty can hinder air flow, decrease system efficiency and drive up energy costs. To avoid the build-up of dirt and other debris, turn off the power supply to your compressor unit prior to you begin cleaning. Then with a garden hose, gently clean the fan blades and coil fins to get rid of 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 any bent fins, which may be caused by wind or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air cooling system has been in operation 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 to the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines carry refrigerant, and any cracks or rust can cause leaks that will cause poor cooling and high costs for utility.
Air Filter
Change your air filter frequently to ensure it is clean and enhance the performance of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter is contingent on how often you run the AC, how many furry family members are in the house, and how much dust is collected. A typical air filter should last about two weeks to a month in the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for condensation is clogged with algae, mold or snails, it can’t flush away the water that’s collected by your evaporator unit during cooling. This could result in flooding of your home, water damage, and the growth of mold and mildew. In order to prevent this the float switch near the indoor evaporator will shut off the system if it detects that the drain line is blocked.