The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems utilize ductwork to distribute cool air in every room. An air handler with an air filter that collects particles regulates the flow of air.
The unit is typically located in an enclosure that is outside the home. Its quiet operation increases your comfort by preventing constant hum or whir of window AC units from disrupting your indoor serenity.
Energy Efficiency
While central air conditioners use more energy than wall-mounted units do, modern systems are more efficient than the ones of the past. The Ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was removed by 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are also continually creating new technologies to help their systems use less energy.
In contrast to window AC units that are designed to cool just the room in which they are installed, central AC systems can evenly distribute cool air throughout your entire home with air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signals that the air handler needs to begin to cycle. 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 that is released into the air causes refrigerant absorb energy before it transforms into gas. The refrigerant is then transported to the outdoor unit which is where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. When it pumps it, it carries the heat out of the evaporator coil, and then back into the house to be cooled and circulated through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes to controlling temperature in large spaces. They can consistently cool rooms that are farther away than a single wall AC unit can and provide greater energy efficiency overall.
It could be that, based on how well sealed and insulated your home is and the layout, a mini-split air conditioner will save you more energy than central air cooling. Mini-splits are different from central ACs, however they are more efficient since they do not rely on ductwork. Ductwork leaks can cause the system overwork in order to cool your home to the desired temperature. If you’re interested in finding out more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, talk with an HVAC professional at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning business. They’ll be able to help you select the right solution for your requirements.
Convenience
In addition to comfort and energy efficiency, central air conditioning systems provide lots of convenience. They can cool an entire home or office in only one unit, and do not require ducts like window units do. They are also usually equipped with high-quality air filters which can help to keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those suffering from allergies or respiratory ailments.
Central AC is one of the most well-known kinds of cooling systems, and for good reason. This is an excellent option for homes with ductwork that want a cooling solution. These systems can provide cool air to every room from a single vent. They can also be paired with home zoning, which permits you to control your cooling needs in different parts of the house with a smart thermostat.
This is the most popular type of AC system that operates in a similar manner as a furnace. Central air conditioners include an outdoor unit that blows warm air, and a smaller indoor unit that pulls cold or hot air out of the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through the lines that connect to the air handler and absorbs heat during the process. The cool air is pushed back into the air handler, and then circulated to other rooms through the ductwork.
A central air conditioning system can also help reduce humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler can eliminate excess moisture and release it outside which prevents the growth of mildew and mold in your ductwork.
It’s time to upgrade your cooling system if it is older than 15 years. A new, high quality AC system will allow you to reduce your energy bills 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 budget and needs.
Maintenance
Like any major appliance air conditioner, your air conditioner requires regular service to keep running smoothly. Certain maintenance tasks that are routine can be completed by the homeowner while others should be left to licensed experts. Signing up for a maintenance contract is the best way to be on the top of AC problems. These contracts often include discounts on repairs, as well as other benefits, like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser that is dirty can reduce air flow, decrease the efficiency of your system, and increase energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, switch off your compressor unit to stop dirt and debris from accumulating. 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 the blades, wipe them clean with a paper towel and spray for sanitation. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins that could have been 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 lines, the copper tubes connecting the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil and the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are a conduit for refrigerant and any cracks or rust can cause leaks that will cause poor cooling and high utility bills.
Air Filter
Replace your air filter on a regular basis to ensure that it is fresh and improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter is contingent on how often you use the AC and how many pets reside in the home, and how much dust accumulates. 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 becomes clogged by algae, mold, or bugs, the accumulated water on the evaporator coil will not be able to be flushed away. This could lead to flooding in your basement, water damage to your home, and even mold and mildew growth. In order to prevent this, the float switch located close to your indoor evaporator coil will stop the system when it senses that the drain line is clogged.