The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems utilize ductwork to distribute cooled air in every room. An air handler that has an air filter that collects particles regulates airflow.
The unit is typically located in a small enclosure outside the house. The unit’s quiet operation can enhance your comfort, as it will keep the constant hum and whirrrr of window AC units from disrupting your indoor peace.
Energy Efficiency
Although it is true that central air conditioners use more energy to operate than a wall-mounted unit but the truth is that today’s systems are more efficient than the ones used in years ago. The refrigerant that depletes the ozone R22 was eliminated in 2006 and replaced by a green product called 410A, and manufacturers are constantly developing new technologies to enable their systems to use less energy.
In contrast to window AC units, which are specifically designed to cool only the room they’re mounted in central AC systems are able to evenly distribute cool air throughout your home by using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signals the air handler to start cycling on. The air handler pulls warm air from your living spaces 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 turn into a gas. This refrigerant is then pumped to the outdoor unit and the compressor increases its temperature and pressure. As it pumps, it pushes the heat off of the evaporator coil back into the house, where it’s cooled and circulated through the ductwork.
The fact is that central AC systems are the most efficient option in managing the temperature of large spaces. They are able to consistently cool rooms that are farther away than a single wall AC unit can, and they offer better energy efficiency overall.
Depending on how well your home is insulated and sealed, and the layout of your home it is possible that a mini-split could save you more energy than central air conditioning however. Mini-splits differ from central ACs, but they are more efficient because they don’t require the ductwork. Ductwork leaks can cause the system overwork in order to cool your home to the desired temperature. Contact an HVAC professional from your local Dallas heating company if want to learn more about energy-efficient solutions for cooling your home. They can help you find the right solution for your requirements.
Convenience
In addition to comfort and energy efficiency central air conditioning systems offer many benefits. They can cool your entire home or business with one unit, and do not require vents like window units. They are also fitted with high-quality filters that help keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is especially helpful for those suffering from respiratory issues or allergies.
Central AC is one of the most sought-after kinds of cooling systems and for good reason. It’s ideal for homes with ductwork and want an effective cooling solution. These systems can cool every room by a single vent. They can also be used with thermostats with zones for homes that allow you to regulate the cooling requirements of different areas in your home.
This is the most common type of AC system that functions in a similar manner to furnaces. Central air conditioners include an outdoor unit that blows warm air and a smaller indoor unit that pulls cold or hot air out of the ductwork. The refrigerant flows from the air handler through the lines, which absorb heat. The cooled air is pumped back into the air handler before being circulated to other rooms through the ductwork.
An added benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it may help to reduce humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler can eliminate excess moisture, and then release it outside to stop the growth of mildew and mold in your ductwork.
It’s time to upgrade your cooling system if it’s older than 15 years. A new, high quality AC system will help you save money on energy costs as well as safeguard 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 requirements.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, just like any other major appliance, needs regular maintenance to run smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be done by the homeowner however, other tasks should be handled by certified experts. Signing up for a maintenance agreement is the best way to be on the forefront of AC problems. These contracts often offer discounts on repairs as well as benefits, like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser that is dirty will decrease air flow, reduce the efficiency of your system, and increase the cost of energy. To prevent a build-up of dirt and debris, turn off the power to the compressor unit prior to when you begin cleaning. Then, using a garden hose, gently wash the coil fins and fan blades to remove dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris. After washing using a paper towel and spray for sanitation to clean and disinfect the fan blades. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins that could result from wind, or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner has been in use 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 and the outdoor compressor and condenser. 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
To increase the efficiency of your AC system, make sure you change your air filter regularly. The frequency of changing your air filter is contingent on the frequency you run the AC, how many pets reside living in your home, and how much dust accumulates. A typical air filter lasts for approximately two weeks or a month during the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If your condensation drain line is blocked by mold, algae or bugs, the water collected on the evaporator coil won’t be able to flush away. This can result in a flood-prone home, water damage, and the growth of mold and mildew. The float switch near your indoor coil will shut down the system if it detects a clogged drain line.
