The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning systems utilize ductwork to distribute cool air in every room. The flow of air is controlled 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. The unit’s quiet operation can enhance your comfort, as it will prevent the constant hum and whirrrr of window AC units from disrupting indoor peace.
Energy Efficiency
While it’s true that central air conditioners require more energy to run than wall-mounted units but the truth is that the modern systems are much more efficient than the ones used in years ago. The refrigerant that ozone depletes R22 was phased out in 2006 and was replaced with an environmentally friendly product known as 410A, and manufacturers are constantly experimenting with new technologies to help their systems consume less energy.
Contrary to window AC units that 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 with air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat tells the air handler to begin cycling on. The air handler is able to pull hot air from your home and passes it over the evaporator, which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes refrigerant absorb energy before it transforms into a gas. The compressor then increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. As it pumps, heat is pushed off the evaporator and back into your home, where it will be cooled and distributed through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes to regulating temperature in large spaces. They can consistently cool rooms that are farther from one another than one wall AC unit can, and they offer better energy efficiency in general.
Depending on how well your home is insulated and sealed, and also the layout it’s possible that a mini-split system could save you more energy than central air conditioning however. Mini-splits differ from central ACs, but they are more efficient since they don’t use ductwork. Ductwork leaks can cause the system overwork to cool your house to the desired temperature. If you’re interested in finding out more about energy-efficient options for cooling your home, you should talk to an HVAC expert at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They can assist you in finding the right solution for your requirements.
Convenience
In addition to the energy efficiency and comfort central air conditioning systems offer many benefits. These systems are able to cool an entire home or office in just one unit, and do not require ducts as window units do. They also typically come with high-quality air filters that can help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is especially helpful for those suffering from allergies or respiratory ailments.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and for good reason. It is ideal for homes that already have ductwork and require a reliable cooling solution. These systems can cool all rooms with a single vent. They can also be paired with home zoned thermostats that let you control the cooling needs of different rooms in your home.
This is the most popular AC system. It functions similarly to furnaces. Central air conditioners are comprised of a large outdoor unit that blasts warm air and a smaller inside unit that pulls hot or cold air out of the ductwork. The refrigerant flows from the air handler through lines, which absorb heat. The cooled air is pumped back into the air handler before being circulated to other rooms through the ductwork.
Central air conditioning systems can also help reduce humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler can remove excess moisture, and then release it to the outside, which helps to prevent the growth of mildew and mold in your ductwork.
If your current cooling system is nearing 15 years old it’s time to consider replacing it with a new and better model. A new, top-quality AC system will save you money on energy costs and will help ensure the integrity of your home’s 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 requirements.
Maintenance
Just like any major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular maintenance to run smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be handled by homeowners, while others should be left to licensed experts. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance agreement that usually comes with discounts on repairs and advantages such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A dirty condenser unit will limit air flow, reduce the efficiency of the system and increase energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, turn off your compressor unit to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating. Then, using a garden hose, gently wash the coil fins and fan blades to get rid of dirt leaves, twigs, twigs and other debris. After washing the blades, wipe them clean using a paper towel and a sanitation spray. It is also an excellent idea to straighten any bent fins that could be caused by winds or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner has been running for more than 10 years, it is recommended to engage a professional to check the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil and the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines are a conduit for refrigerant and any cracks or rust can cause leaks, which can lead to inadequate cooling and expensive utility bills.
Air Filter
Replace your air filter on a regular basis to ensure that it is clean and enhance the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter depends on how often you run the AC and how many pets reside living in your home and the amount of dust gets accumulated. A typical air filter should last between two weeks and a month in the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If your condensation drain line becomes clogged by algae, mold or bugs, the water collected on the evaporator coil will not be able to flush away. This can cause a flooded home, water damage and the growth of mildew and mold. The float switch in your indoor coil will shut off the system when it detects a blocked drain line.