The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems utilize ductwork to distribute cooled air throughout the rooms. The flow of air is controlled by an air handler that includes a filter for capturing particulates.
The unit is typically situated in a small enclosure that is located outside of the house. Its noiseless operation enhances your comfort by preventing constant noise or whirr of window AC units from disturbing indoor serenity.
Energy Efficiency
Although it is true that central air conditioners use more energy to operate than a wall-mounted unit, the truth is that today’s systems are much more efficient than those in years in the past. The ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was phased out by 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are continually developing new technologies to aid in the use of less energy.
In contrast to window AC units that are designed to cool just the area they’re installed in central AC systems are able to evenly distribute cool air throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat signals the air handler to start cycling on. The air handler draws warm air from your living space, and it passes over the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and turn into gas. The refrigerant is then transported to the outdoor unit and the compressor increases its temperature and pressure. When it pumps it, it carries the heat off of the evaporator coil back into the home where it is cooled before being distributed throughout your ductwork.
The truth is that central AC systems are the most efficient choice when it comes to regulating the temperature of large spaces. They can cool rooms that are further from one AC unit, and they have better energy efficiency.
You might find that based on the level of insulation and sealing your home is and the layout, a mini-split air conditioner can save you more energy than central air cooling. Mini-splits function differently than central AC however, they are usually more efficient due to the fact that they don’t rely on ductwork, which could leak and result in the system working too hard to bring your home up to the desired temperature. If you’re interested in learning more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, speak to an HVAC expert at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning business. They can assist you in finding the best solution for your requirements.
Convenience
In addition to comfort and energy efficiency central air conditioning systems provide many benefits. These systems can cool the entire home or business with one unit, and do not require vents like window units. They also come with high-quality filters that 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 for good reason. This is a great option for homes with ductwork that want a cooling solution. These systems can cool all rooms with a single vent. They can also be used in conjunction with home zoned thermostats that let you manage the cooling needs of different rooms in your house.
This is the most common AC system. It operates in a similar fashion to a furnace. Central air conditioners have an outdoor unit that blasts warm air, and a smaller indoor unit that pulls hot or cold air from the ductwork. The refrigerant flows from the air handler through the lines, which absorb heat. The cooled air is then pushed back to the air handler inside the home and circulated through the ductwork to other rooms.
An added benefit of central air conditioning is that it may aid in reducing humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler will take excess moisture from your ductwork, and release it to the outside. This helps prevent the growth of mildew and mold.
It’s time to upgrade your cooling system if it is older than 15 years. A new, high-quality AC system will save you money on energy costs and help to ensure the integrity of the ductwork of your home. To learn more about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, please contact us. We can help you select the right air conditioner for your budget and requirements.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, just like any other major appliance, needs regular maintenance to run smoothly. Certain maintenance tasks that are routine can be performed by homeowners, while others should be left to certified professionals. Signing an agreement for maintenance is the best way to be on the top of AC issues. These agreements usually offer discounts on repairs, as well as other benefits, like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A dirty condenser will reduce air flow, reduce the efficiency of your system, and increase energy costs. To prevent a build-up of dirt and debris shut off the power to your compressor unit before you begin cleaning. Then, using a garden hose, gently clean the coil fins and fan blades to get rid of dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris. After washing, wipe the blades using a paper towel and spray to clean. It is also an excellent idea to straighten out any noticeable bent fins, which may be caused by wind or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is over 10 years old, you must have a professional inspect the lines, the copper tubes connecting the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil to 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
Change your air filter regularly to keep it fresh and improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency varies depending on how often the AC is running, the number of furry members in your family, and the amount of dust your home collects. A typical air filter can last for about two weeks or a month during the cooler months.
Condensate Drain Line
If the condensation drain line is clogged with algae, mold or snails it won’t be able to flush out the water collected by your evaporator coil during cooling. This can cause a flooded home, water damage and the growth of mildew and mold. The float switch in your indoor coil will shut down the system if it detects a clogged drain line.