The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems make use of the ductwork system to distribute cooled air throughout each room. The flow of air is controlled by an air handler which features a filter to capture particulates.
The unit is typically situated in an enclosure that is outside the home. Its quiet operation improves your comfort by preventing the constant sound or whir of window AC units from disrupting the peace of your home.
Energy Efficiency
While central air conditioners use more energy than wall-mounted units do, modern systems are more efficient than the models of the past. The refrigerant that depletes the ozone R22 was phased out in 2006 and has been replaced by a green product known as 410A, and manufacturers are constantly developing new technologies to enable their systems to use less energy.
Unlike window AC units, which are specifically designed to cool the area they’re installed in central AC systems are able to evenly distribute cool air throughout your entire home using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat indicates that the air handler must begin cycling. The air handler draws hot air from your home, then passes it through the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigeration. The heat in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and turn into gas. The compressor then increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. As it pumps, the heat is pushed off the evaporator back into your home, where it will be cooled and distributed through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes to regulating temperature in large spaces. They can cool rooms that are farther away from a single AC unit, and they have better energy efficiency.
Depending on how well your house is well-insulated and sealed and the layout of your home it is possible that a mini-split unit will save you even more energy than central air conditioners, though. Mini-splits work differently than central AC, but they’re often more efficient because they do not rely on ductwork which can leak and cause the system to over-work in order to keep your home at the desired temperature. If you’re interested in learning more about energy-efficient options for cooling your home, you should talk to an HVAC specialist at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning business. They’ll be able to help you choose the best solution for your requirements.
Convenience
In addition to comfort and energy efficiency, central air conditioning systems offer lots of convenience. These systems can cool the entire home or business with one unit and don’t require ducts as window units do. They also come with high-quality filters to help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly beneficial for people suffering from allergies or respiratory ailments.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. This is an excellent option for homes with ductwork and need an effective cooling solution. These systems can cool each room with just one vent. They can also be paired with thermostats that are zoned for home use that allow you to manage the cooling needs of different areas within your house.
This is the most popular kind of AC system that functions similarly as furnaces. Central air conditioners include an outdoor unit that blasts warm air, and a smaller indoor unit that pulls cold or hot air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped from the air handler through lines, absorbing heat. The cooled air is returned to the air handler inside the home and circulated via the ductwork to other rooms.
A central air conditioning system can also reduce humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler is able to remove excess moisture and then release it outside, which helps to prevent the growth of mold and mildew in your ductwork.
If your cooling system is getting close to 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 will help safeguard the integrity of the ductwork in your home. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can assist you in choosing the right air conditioner for your budget and needs.
Maintenance
As with every major appliance air conditioner, your air conditioner requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be performed by the homeowner while others are best left to certified experts. Signing up for a maintenance contract is the best way to be on the forefront of AC problems. These agreements typically come with discounts on repairs, as well as other benefits, like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser that is dirty will decrease air flow, decrease the efficiency of your system and increase the cost of energy. Before you begin cleaning, turn off the compressor unit to stop dirt and debris from accumulating. Then using a garden hose, gently wash the fan blades and coil fins to remove dirt leaves, twigs, twigs and other debris. After washing, wipe the blades with a towel and a sanitation spray. It is also a good idea to straighten out any noticeable bent fins, which could be caused by the wind or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is over 10 years old, you must get a professional to examine the line sets, as well as the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are filled with refrigerant and any corrosion or cracks can result in leaks, which could result in a decrease in cooling and more expensive utility bills.
Air Filter
To increase the efficiency of your AC system, you should change your air filter regularly. The frequency of changing your air filter is contingent on the frequency you run the AC, how many furry family members are in the home, and how much dust is collected. A standard air filter should last between two weeks and one month during the cooler season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for condensation is clogged with mold, algae, snails, or bugs the line won’t flush out the water that’s collected by your evaporator coil in cooling. This can result in a flood-prone home, water damage and the development of mildew and mold. The float switch near your indoor coil will shut down the system when it detects a blockage in the drain line.