The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

Central air conditioning uses ductwork to deliver cooled air to all rooms. Airflow is regulated by an air handler that features a filter to capture particles.

The unit is usually placed in a small enclosure located outside the home. Its quiet operation improves your comfort by preventing constant hum or whir of window AC units from disturbing indoor serenity.

Energy Efficiency

While it’s true that central air conditioners use more energy to run than wall-mounted units however, the reality is that the modern systems are much more efficient than those in the ago. The ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was removed in 2006 and replaced by 410A. Manufacturers are continuously creating new technologies that help their systems use less energy.

Contrary to window AC units, which are designed to cool just the area they’re installed in, central AC systems can distribute cool air throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signals that the air handler needs to start 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 refrigerant absorb energy and transform into a gas. The compressor then raises the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. As it pumps it pushes the heat off of the evaporator coil, and then back into the home, where it’s cooled and circulated through the ductwork.

Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes down to regulating temperatures in large spaces. They are able to consistently cool rooms that are further away than one wall AC unit could and also provide better energy efficiency overall.

Depending on how well your house is insulated and sealed, and the layout of your home it’s possible that a mini-split will save you even more energy than a central air conditioner, though. Mini-splits are different from central ACs, however they can be more efficient since they do not rely on the ductwork. Ductwork leaks and can cause the system overwork to cool your home to the desired temperature. Talk to an HVAC specialist from your local Dallas heating company if you are interested in learning more about energy-efficient options for cooling your house. They can assist you in finding the best solution for your needs.

Convenience

In addition to comfort and energy efficiency central air conditioning systems provide a lot of convenience. These systems are able to cool an entire home or office with only one unit, and don’t require ducts as window units do. They also typically come with high-quality air filters which can help to keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for individuals who suffer from respiratory conditions or allergies.

Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. This is a great option for homes with ductwork that want an effective cooling solution. These systems can cool every room with just one vent. They can also be used with thermostats with zones for homes that let you manage the cooling needs of different areas in your house.

This is the most common kind of AC system that functions similarly to a furnace. Central air conditioners include 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 circulated through the lines that connect to the air handler, and it absorbs heat during the process. The cooled air is pumped back into the air handler before being circulated to other rooms through the ductwork.

A further benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it can also help to reduce humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler can remove excess moisture and release it to the outside which prevents the growth of mold and mildew within your ductwork.

If your cooling system is approaching 15 years in age, it’s time to consider replacing it with a fresh and more efficient model. A new, top-quality AC system will help you save money on energy costs and help to safeguard the integrity of your home’s ductwork. For more information about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, please contact us. We can assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your budget and needs.

Maintenance

Like any other major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular maintenance to run smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be completed by the homeowner while others are best left to licensed professionals. Signing an agreement for maintenance is the best method to keep on the top of AC issues. These agreements typically come with discounts on repairs and other perks, such as priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A condenser that is dirty can reduce air flow, reduce the efficiency of your system and increase the cost of energy. To avoid the build-up of dirt and debris, turn off the power supply to your compressor unit prior to you begin cleaning. Then, with a garden hose and a rag, gently clean the blades and coil fins of your fan to eliminate dirt, twigs and leaves. 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 be caused by wind, or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, you must get a professional to examine 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 lead to leaks, which could result in a decrease in cooling and more expensive costs for utility.

Air Filter

To enhance the performance of your AC system, make sure you change your air filter regularly. The frequency varies depending on the frequency at which the AC runs, the amount of furry family members, and the amount of dust is accumulated in your home. A typical air filter should last between two weeks and one month during the cooling season.

Condensate Drain Line

If your condensation drain line becomes clogged by mold, algae or bugs, the water that collects on the evaporator coil won’t be able to flush away. This can lead to a flooded basement, water damage in your home, and even mold and mildew growth. The float switch in your indoor coil will shut down the system when it detects a clogged drain line.