The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning uses ductwork to deliver cooled air to each room. The flow of air is controlled by an air handler which has a filter that is used to remove particulates.
The unit is typically situated in a small enclosure outside the house. The unit’s quiet operation can enhance your comfort, since it will prevent the constant hum and whirrrr of window AC units from disrupting your indoor peace.
Energy Efficiency
Although central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units, today’s systems are more efficient than ones of the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was eliminated in 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are also continuously developing new technologies to help their systems use less energy.
Central AC systems, in contrast to window AC units, which are designed to cool only the area in which they’re placed, can distribute cool air throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat tells the air handler to start the process of cycling. The air handler is able to pull hot air from your home and then passes it through the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigeration. The heat from the air causes refrigerant absorb energy and transform into a 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 out of the evaporator coil back into the house to be cooled and circulated through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes to regulating temperatures in large spaces. They can consistently cool rooms that are further apart than a single wall AC unit can and provide greater energy efficiency overall.
It could be that, based on the level of insulation and sealing your home is and the arrangement, a mini-split air conditioner can save you more energy than central air cooling. Mini-splits function differently than central AC, but they’re often more efficient since they do not rely on ductwork which can leak and cause the system to work harder in order to bring your home up to the desired temperature. If you’re interested in learning more about energy-efficient options for cooling your home, talk with an HVAC professional at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning business. They can help you find the ideal solution for your needs.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems aren’t only efficient and comfortable, but they also provide a good amount of convenience. These systems are able to cool a whole home or office with just one unit, and don’t require ducts as window units do. They are also usually equipped with high-quality air filters that can help to keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those suffering from respiratory issues or allergies.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. It is ideal for homes that already have ductwork and require a reliable cooling solution. These systems can cool each room with just one vent. They can also be paired with home zoned thermostats that let you manage the cooling needs of different areas in your house.
This is the most common AC system. It works similarly as a furnace. A central air conditioner has an outdoor unit that blows warm air, and a smaller indoor air handler that pulls in hot or cold air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped out of the air handler through the lines, taking in heat. The cooled air is then pushed back to the air handler inside the home and circulated via the ductwork into other rooms.
A further benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it can help to reduce humidity. This is especially crucial 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.
If your cooling system is nearing 15 years old it’s time to think about replacing it with a new and more efficient model. A new, top-quality AC system will allow you to save money on energy costs 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 right air conditioner for your needs and budget.
Maintenance
Just like any other major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular maintenance to run smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be handled by the homeowner, however, other tasks should be left to qualified professionals. The best way to avoid getting caught up of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance agreement that usually comes with discounts on repairs and advantages such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser unit that is dirty can limit air flow, reduce system efficiency, and increase energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, switch off your compressor unit to prevent dirt and debris from building up. Then with a garden hose, gently clean the fan blades and coil fins to remove dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris. After washing the blades, wipe them using a paper towel and spray to clean. It’s also an excellent idea to straighten any bent fins that could 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, you should employ a professional to examine the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil with the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines are filled with refrigerant. any cracks or corrosion can cause leaks that can result in inadequate cooling and higher costs for utility.
Air Filter
Change your air filter frequently to ensure that it is fresh and improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency of change varies based on the frequency at which the AC is running, the number of furry family members and how much dust you collect in your home. A typical air filter will last for about two weeks to one month during the cooler season.
Condensate Drain Line
If your condensation drain line gets blocked by mold, algae or bugs, the water that collects on the evaporator coil will not be able to be flushed away. This can lead to flooding of your basement, water damage in your home, and even mold and mildew growth. The float switch on your indoor coil will shut down the system when it detects a clogged drain line.