The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems use ductwork to distribute cooled air throughout the rooms. An air handler that has filters that trap particulates regulates the flow of air.
The unit is typically situated in a small enclosure that is located outside of the house. Its quiet operation increases your comfort by preventing constant noise or whirr of window AC units from disrupting the peace and quiet of your indoor space.
Energy Efficiency
Central air conditioners consume 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 in 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are also continuously developing new technologies to aid in the use of less energy.
Contrary to window AC units, which are specifically designed to cool the room they’re mounted in, central AC systems can 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 in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy, and then turn into gas. The refrigerant is then transported to the outdoor unit which is where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. As it pumps it, it carries the heat out of the evaporator coil back into the house where it is cooled before being circulated through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes down to controlling the temperature in large areas. They can cool rooms that are farther from one AC unit, and they have better energy efficiency.
It could be that, based on how well sealed and insulated your home is and the layout, a mini-split conditioner will use less energy than central air conditioning. Mini-splits are not the same as central ACs, however they can be more efficient because they don’t require the ductwork. Ductwork leaks and could make the system overwork to cool your house to the desired temperature. Contact an HVAC professional from your local Dallas heating company if want to know more about energy efficient options for cooling your house. They’ll help you select the most efficient solution for your requirements.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems are not only energy efficient and comfortable, they also provide a great amount of convenience. These systems are able to cool a whole home or office with only one unit, and do not require ducts as window units do. They are also usually equipped with high-quality air filters that can help keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is especially helpful for those suffering from allergies or respiratory conditions.
Central AC is one of the most popular types of cooling systems, and with good reason. It is ideal for homes that already have ductwork and require a reliable cooling solution. These systems can cool each room by a single vent. They can also be paired with thermostats that are zoned for home use that allow you to control the cooling needs of different areas in your house.
This is the most common AC system. It functions similarly to a furnace. Central air conditioners have a large outdoor unit that blows warm air and a smaller indoor unit that pulls cold or hot air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through the lines of the air handler, and it absorbs heat as it goes through the process. The cooled air is pushed back to the air handler inside the home, and circulated through the ductwork to other rooms.
An added benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it can help to reduce humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler will remove excess moisture from your ductwork, and release it outside. This helps to prevent mold and mildew from growing.
If your current cooling system is approaching 15 years in age It’s time to consider replacing it with a new and better model. A new, top-quality AC system can help you save money on energy costs as well as safeguard the integrity of your ductwork. For more information about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, call us. We can assist you in selecting the right air conditioner to meet your budget and requirements.
Maintenance
Just like any major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular maintenance to run smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be completed by homeowners, while others should be left to licensed professionals. The best way to avoid getting caught up of AC issues is to sign to a maintenance contract that usually comes with a discount on repairs and benefits such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser unit that is dirty will limit air flow, reduce system efficiency and drive up the cost of energy. To prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris, turn off the power supply to your compressor unit prior to you begin cleaning. Then, using a garden hose and a cloth, gently scrub the coil fins and blades of your fan to get rid of dirt, twigs and leaves. After washing using a paper towel and a spray of sanitation to clean and disinfect the fan blades. You should also straighten any bent fins that could result from winds, or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, it is recommended to consult a professional to inspect 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 corrosion or cracks could result in leaks, which can result in inadequate cooling and more expensive utility bills.
Air Filter
Replace your air filter on a regular basis to keep it fresh and improve the performance of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter is contingent on how often you run the AC, how many pets are living in your home, and how much dust accumulates. A typical air filter will last for about two weeks to one month during the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for your condensation gets blocked by algae, mold or bugs, the accumulated water on the evaporator coil won’t be able to be flushed away. This can result in a flood-prone home, water damage and the development of mildew and mold. The float switch on your indoor coil will shut off the system when it detects a clogged drain line.