The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

A central air conditioning system makes use of ductwork to deliver cool air to every room. A air handler equipped with a filter that captures particulates regulates airflow.

The unit is usually housed in a small enclosure that is outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation can enhance your comfort, as it will keep the constant hum and whirr of window AC units from disrupting indoor peace.

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 pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was phased out in 2006 and replaced by 410A. Manufacturers are continuously developing new technologies to help their systems use less energy.

Contrary to window AC units, which are specifically designed to cool the room they’re mounted 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 tells the air handler to begin cycling on. The air handler pulls warm air from your living spaces and then it is pushed through the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat that’s in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy, and then turn into gas. The refrigerant then gets pumped to the outdoor unit, where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. As it pumps, the heat is pushed off the evaporator, and then returned to your home, where it can be distributed and cooled through the ductwork.

Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes to regulating temperatures in large spaces. They can cool rooms that are further away from a single AC unit and also have higher energy efficiency.

You might find that based on the level of insulation and sealing your home is and the layout, a mini-split conditioner can save you more energy than central air cooling. Mini-splits function differently than central AC however they’re usually more efficient since they do not rely on ductwork which could leak and cause the system to work harder to keep your home at the desired temperature. If you’re interested in learning more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, talk with an HVAC expert at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning business. They’ll help you select the most efficient solution for your requirements.

Convenience

Central air conditioning systems are not only efficient and comfortable, they also provide a good amount of convenience. They can cool the entire office or home in one unit, and do not require ducts as window units do. They also come with high-quality filters that keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those suffering from respiratory or allergies.

Central AC is a popular cooling system, and for good reason. It is ideal for homes with ductwork and need a powerful cooling solution. These systems can cool every room with a single vent. They can also be paired with home zoned thermostats, which allow you to control the cooling needs of different areas within your home.

This is the most common type of AC system that operates in a similar manner similar to a furnace. Central air conditioners have an outdoor unit that blows out warm air, and a smaller indoor air handler that draws in cold or hot air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped out of the air handler through the lines, absorbing heat. The cooled air is then pushed back to the air handler in the home, and circulated through the ductwork into other rooms.

A central air conditioning system can also help reduce humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler is able to remove excess moisture and then release it outside to stop the growth of mildew and mold in your ductwork.

It’s time to replace your cooling system if it’s older than 15 years. A new, high-quality AC system will save you money on energy costs and will help protect the integrity of the ductwork in your home. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can help you choose the right air conditioner for your budget and requirements.

Maintenance

Your air conditioner, just like any other major appliance requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be performed by the homeowner, however, other tasks should be handled by qualified professionals. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance contract that usually comes with discounts on repairs and advantages such as priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A dirty condenser unit will hinder air flow, decrease system efficiency and drive up energy costs. To prevent a build-up of dirt and other debris, turn off the power to your compressor unit before you begin cleaning. Then using a garden hose, gently clean the coil fins and fan blades to get rid of dirt leaves, twigs and other debris. After washing, wipe the blades using a paper towel and spray for sanitation. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins that may be caused by winds, or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air conditioner has been in use 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 filled with refrigerant, and any corrosion or cracks could result in leaks, which will result in poor cooling and higher costs for utility.

Air Filter

Replace your air filter on a regular basis to ensure it is clean and enhance the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency varies depending on the frequency at which the AC runs, the number of furry family members, and how much dust you collect in your home. Generally, a standard air filter can last for about two weeks or a month in the cool season.

Condensate Drain Line

If your condensation drain line is blocked by algae, mold, or bugs, the water that collects on the evaporator coil won’t be able to flush away. This could lead to flooding in your basement, water damage to your home, and mold and mildew growth. The float switch in your indoor coil will shut off the system when it detects a blocked drain line.