The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems make use of the ductwork system to distribute cooled air throughout the rooms. The flow of air is controlled by an air handler that features a filter to capture particles.
The unit is usually housed in a small enclosure that is outside the home. Its noiseless operation enhances your comfort by preventing constant noise or whirr of window AC units from disrupting the peace of your home.
Energy Efficiency
Although central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units, modern systems are more efficient than the ones of the past. The ozone-depleting refrigerant R22 was phased out in 2006 and replaced with an environmentally friendly product called 410A and manufacturers are constantly innovating new technologies that aid in the reduction of energy.
Contrary to window AC units, which are designed to cool just the room in which they are installed central AC systems are able to evenly distribute cool air throughout your entire home using air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat signals that the air handler should start cycling. The air handler draws hot air from your home, then passes it over the evaporator, that is filled with cool refrigeration. The heat contained in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy, and then turn into a gas. This refrigerant is then pumped to the outdoor unit and the compressor increases its temperature and pressure. As it pumps, it pushes the heat off of the evaporator coil back into the home, where it’s cooled and circulated through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes to regulating temperatures in large spaces. They can cool rooms that are farther apart than a single AC unit and also have higher energy efficiency.
Depending on how well your home is insulated and sealed, and also the layout it is possible that a mini-split unit could save you more energy than a central air conditioner, though. Mini-splits operate differently than central AC however they’re usually more efficient because they don’t rely on ductwork, which could leak and result in the system working too hard in order to keep your home at the desired temperature. Contact an HVAC professional from your local Dallas heating company if you want to know more about energy efficient solutions for cooling your home. They can assist you in finding the ideal solution for your needs.
Convenience
In addition to comfort and energy efficiency, central air conditioning systems also provide many benefits. They can cool the entire office or home in only one unit and don’t need vents like window units. They also typically come with high-quality air filters which can help to keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those suffering from respiratory or allergies.
Central AC is one of the most well-known kinds of cooling systems and for good reason. It’s perfect for homes with ductwork and require a reliable cooling solution. These systems can provide cool air to every room from a single vent. They can also be used with home zoning, which permits you to manage your cooling requirements in various areas of your home with the help of a smart thermostat.
This is the most popular kind of AC system that operates in a similar manner as furnaces. Central air conditioners are comprised of an outdoor unit that blows warm air and a smaller inside unit that pulls cold or hot air out of the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through lines that connect to the air handler, and it absorbs heat during the process. The cool air is pushed back into the air handler before being it is then circulated to other rooms via the ductwork.
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 to prevent mold and mildew from growing.
It’s time to upgrade your cooling system if it’s older than 15 years. A new, top-quality AC system will allow you to save money on energy bills and also protect the integrity of your ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can assist you in selecting the right air conditioner for your budget and needs.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, just like any other major appliance requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Certain maintenance tasks that are routine can be performed by the homeowner while others are best left to licensed experts. Signing up for a maintenance agreement is the best way to stay on the top of AC issues. These contracts often include discounts on repairs as well as perks, such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A dirty condenser will reduce air flow, reduce the efficiency of your system, and increase the cost of energy. Before you begin cleaning, switch off the compressor unit to avoid dirt and debris from building up. Then, with the help of a garden hose and sponge, gently clean the blades and fins of your fan to get rid of dirt, twigs and leaves. After washing then, use a towel and sanitation spray to clean and disinfect the fan blades. It is also an excellent idea to straighten any bent fins, which could be caused by winds 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 line sets, as well as the copper tubes connecting the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil with 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 higher costs for utility.
Air Filter
Replace your air filter on a regular basis to keep it fresh and improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency of change varies based on how often your AC runs, the number of furry family members, and how much dust your home collects. A typical air filter will last for about two months or two weeks during the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If your condensation drain line is blocked by algae, mold or bugs, the accumulated water on the evaporator coil will not be able to flush away. This could lead to a flooded basement, water damage to your home, and even mold and mildew growth. To avoid this the float switch close to your indoor evaporator coil will shut off the system if it detects that the drain line is clogged.