The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning uses ductwork to deliver cooled air to each room. Airflow is regulated by an air handler that has a filter that is used to remove particulates.
The unit is usually housed in a small enclosure outside the home. Its noiseless operation enhances your comfort by preventing constant hum or whir of window AC units from disrupting indoor serenity.
Energy Efficiency
Although central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units, today’s systems are more efficient than the ones of the past. The Ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was phased out by 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are also constantly developing new technologies to aid in the use of less energy.
Central AC systems, in contrast to window AC units, which are designed to cool the space within which they’re located, can spread cool air evenly throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signals that the air handler should begin cycling. The air handler draws hot air from your home and then passes it through the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigeration. The heat in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into a gas. The compressor then raises the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. As it pumps, the heat is transferred from the evaporator and back into your home, where it can be distributed and cooled through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes down to regulating temperatures in large spaces. They can consistently cool rooms that are farther apart than one wall AC unit could and also provide better energy efficiency in general.
You may find that depending on the level of insulation and sealing your home is and the arrangement, a mini-split air conditioner can save you more energy than central air conditioning. Mini-splits are not the same as central ACs, but they can be more efficient because they do not rely on the ductwork. Ductwork leaks and can cause the system to overwork to cool your home 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 home. They can assist you in finding the best solution for your needs.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems are not only efficient and comfortable, but they also provide a great deal of convenience. They can cool the entire house or office using just one unit and do not require ducts like window units do. They are also fitted with high-quality filters to help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is especially helpful for those suffering from allergies or respiratory ailments.
Central AC is one of the most sought-after kinds of cooling systems and with good reason. This is an excellent option for homes with ductwork and need a cooling solution. These systems can cool all rooms with just one vent. They can also be paired with thermostats that are zoned for home use, which allow you to regulate the cooling requirements of different areas within your house.
This is the most commonly used type of AC system that operates similarly to a furnace. Central air conditioners include a large outdoor unit that blasts warm air and a smaller indoor unit that pulls cold or hot air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through lines of the air handler, and it absorbs heat during the process. The cooled air is pushed back to the air handler in the home, and circulated through the ductwork to other rooms.
A further benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it can aid in reducing humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler can eliminate excess moisture and then release it outside which prevents the growth of mildew and mold in your ductwork.
It’s time to replace your cooling system if it is older than 15 years. A new, high quality AC system can help you save money on energy costs and also protect the integrity of your ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can assist you in choosing the perfect air conditioner for your budget and needs.
Maintenance
Like every major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular maintenance to run smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be completed by the homeowner 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 contracts often include discounts on repairs and other benefits, like priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A dirty condenser will reduce air flow, decrease the efficiency of your system and increase the cost of energy. Before you begin cleaning, switch off your compressor unit to avoid dirt and debris from accumulating. Then, using an outdoor hose and cloth, gently scrub the blades and fins of your fan to get rid of dirt, twigs and leaves. After cleaning, wipe the blades with a paper towel and a sanitation spray. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins that could be caused by the wind or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air cooling system has been in operation for more than 10 years, it is recommended to employ a professional to examine the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines are a conduit for refrigerant and any cracks or rust can cause leaks, which can result in low cooling and costly costs for utility.
Air Filter
Change your air filter regularly to ensure it is clean and improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency will vary based on how often the AC runs, the number of furry members in your family, and how much dust is accumulated in your home. A typical air filter should last between two weeks and one month during the cooler season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for your condensation gets blocked by algae, mold or bugs, the water collected on the evaporator coil will not be able to be flushed away. This can cause a flooded home, water damage, and the growth of mildew and mold. To prevent this from happening the float switch close to your indoor evaporator coil will shut off the system when it detects that the drain line has become blocked.