How to Save Money With a Central Air Conditioning System
Central air conditioning systems are able to cool large areas and multiple rooms at once. They push cooled air through ductwork into a house and can reach up to 21 SEER.
The system pulls air from various rooms in the house via return air ducts and filters it, taking out lint, dust, pet dander and microscopic contaminants. It then sends the filtered air back to those rooms.
Cost
Based on the size of your home and the kind of unit you select and how energy efficient it is it can cost significantly. The best way to determine what your specific costs will be is to consult with a reliable air conditioning expert. He or she can help determine what size unit is needed and the amount of ductwork required, among other factors.
A big factor is whether you’d prefer a split system or a packaged unit. A packaged unit is comprised of all the components in one unit, whereas a split system has its components in two locations. Split systems are typically less expensive than packaged units, but they can have problems like water leaking out of the unit or strange noises emanating from it. These problems are usually caused by blocked drainage lines or the need to recharge refrigerant.
Another aspect is the SEER rating of the new central air conditioning system. The higher the SEER is, the more efficient the system. This can be beneficial to your energy bills in the long run, so if you’re considering upgrading to a high-efficiency model, talk to an experienced installer about the savings you may face depending on your climate.
It is crucial to understand that the cost of installation is based both on labor and materials. If you’re hiring a professional to install your central AC system and it requires ductwork installation, you should know that this will cost more than a system that does not have ductwork. The cost of an AC replacement can differ each year because of inflation and changes in energy efficiency standards. It is recommended to purchase an air conditioner during the off-season, or during low season. This can help you save thousands of dollars when you buy a new system.
Efficiency
When looking for an air conditioner, it is important to take into consideration the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating. The SEER rating is based on dividing the cooling output of an AC in a typical summer by the total electric energy consumed during the same time. The higher the SEER rating the more efficient the system’s cooling capacity is. The latest models are more efficient, however the savings will differ based on your climate and size of your house.
A central air conditioning system that is more recent could have an SEER up to 21. Older air conditioners usually have an SEER rating of 10 or below. While it’s legal to operate these older units, their performance will be significantly diminished due to wear and tear.
Newer central air conditioning installations are often more energy-efficient than older ductless systems and wall units. They are the most efficient choices for homeowners and offer the greatest savings in terms of both energy and money. They also include features such as variable-speed blowers, dual exchange units and sophisticated control panels.
The evaporator of an air conditioner is what absorbs and cools the air inside your home. The condenser, which is located in the outdoor unit, transforms the refrigerant that evaporates back into liquid by the same process that heat moves from a warmer substance to a cooler substance. The condenser releases the liquid into coils in the evaporator, where it is then cooled before being returned to its original state.
If your AC isn’t working as effectively as it did in the past, you should clean the evaporator coils and change the air filter on a regular basis. Close all windows and doors to keep hot air out of your home. This causes your AC system to work harder to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. You can further enhance the operation and efficiency of your central air conditioning system by installing an adjustable thermostat. This will automatically shut off your air conditioner off when you’re away from home and then switch it back on approximately 30 minutes before your return.
Noise
Air conditioning units produce a variety of noises in normal operation. Some are harmless, while some indicate that something is not right with the unit. The sounds you hear will help you determine whether the unit requires professional repairs. Some of the most common AC noises include rattling, banging, hissing, humming, and screeching.
Hissing sounds are a sign that your system is trying too hard to draw in more air than the system can handle. In many instances, this issue can be solved by cleaning or replacing the air filter. This simple procedure can drastically reduce the amount of noise that the air conditioner makes.
A leak in refrigerant can cause the sound of hissing. This could be hazardous since the leak can let harmful gases get into the air. A professional can inspect and repair your unit to prevent this problem.
The popping and clicking sounds are typically caused by electrical issues with the thermostat or compressor. These sounds can be hard to recognize, particularly when they are frequent and loud. If these sounds occur repeatedly it’s time to call a professional.
The sounds of rattling are usually caused by debris or loose parts that have made their way into the unit. This could cause components to move around, which causes the clunking noise. As part of your routine maintenance, it is important to check loose screws and other parts.
A rattling sound can also be a sign that the fan motor is wearing out. This can be a costly issue to address however, it can be prevented by having a professional conduct a routine maintenance check-up.
In some instances the humming sound can be simply a sign that the compressor is in operation. It is not a big issue, but it can be annoying to homeowners. Installing a compressor blanket could reduce the sound of humming. A technician can assist in deciding what option is best for your home. The planting of a fence or a shrub which blocks noise from entering the yard is a different option to reduce the noise. But, before you put up any kind of fence, it is recommended to try this method by fencing a small area of your yard, and then observing how it performs.
Installation
It is important to hire an expert to ensure that the work is done properly. A new air conditioner is an expensive investment. It is also recommended to get multiple bids from different contractors before making a final decision. Find a contractor who offers competitive prices, without compromising quality. Beware of low-cost bids, as they could be the result of substandard materials or poor workmanship.
It is crucial to select the right size air conditioner for your home. An oversized unit will cool your home quickly, but it will not eliminate humidity as effectively as smaller models. A unit that is too small is inefficient, resulting in higher energy bills.
The cost of central air conditioning is determined by a range of factors including the model and size of the unit you pick and also your home’s area. Before installing AC, it is recommended to have an expert measure your home. This will allow you to determine how many AC units you require and how long it will take to put them in place.
Central air systems utilize ductwork to distribute cool air throughout your home. They are made up of two main components which are an outdoor condenser and an indoor air handler. The condenser, compressor and evaporator coil are located in the outdoor unit. If you have a large home, a split-system is the best option. The condenser, compressor, and air handler are located in the outdoor unit.
If you already have ductwork it is possible to install central air conditioners however, it might require some adjustments before work can begin. Spray foam, batting or reflective wrap can be used to seal the ducts. This will stop heat loss. Add insulation to any unused attics or crawl spaces.
If you are considering a central air conditioning system, make sure to select a high-efficiency model that has a high SEER rating. This will help you save money and lower your energy costs. You may also qualify for federal rebates which will help you pay for an energy-efficient AC unit.