The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning uses ductwork to deliver cooled air to every room. The flow of air is controlled by an air handler which has a filter that is used to remove particulates.
The unit is typically located in a small enclosure that is outside the home. Its noiseless operation enhances your peace by preventing the constant sound or whir of window AC units from disrupting your indoor serenity.
Energy Efficiency
While central air conditioners use more energy than wall-mounted units, modern systems are more efficient than the models of the past. The ozone-depleting refrigerant R22 was eliminated in 2006 and replaced with an environmentally friendly product called 410A, and manufacturers are constantly innovating new technologies that enable their systems to use less energy.
Unlike window AC units, which are specifically designed to cool only the area they’re installed in, central AC systems can distribute cool air throughout your entire home using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signals the air handler to start cycling on. The air handler draws hot air from your home and passes it through the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes refrigerant to absorb energy, and then transform into gas. This refrigerant is then pumped to the outdoor unit which is where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. When it pumps it pushes the heat away from the evaporator coil back into the house where it is cooled before being distributed throughout your ductwork.
The truth is that central AC systems are the most efficient choice when it comes to controlling the temperature of large spaces. They are able to consistently cool rooms that are farther from one another than one wall AC unit could and also provide better energy efficiency in general.
Depending on how well your house is insulated and sealed, as well as its layout it is possible that a mini-split unit will save you even more energy than central air conditioners, though. Mini-splits are different from central ACs, however they are more efficient, as they do not rely on ductwork. Ductwork leaks can make the system overwork in order to cool your home to the desired temperature. If you’re interested to learn more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, speak to an HVAC expert at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning business. They can assist you in finding the ideal solution for your needs.
Convenience
In addition to comfort and energy efficiency, central air conditioning systems offer many benefits. These systems can cool the entire home or business with one unit and don’t require ducts like window units. These systems are also equipped with high-quality filters to help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for people suffering from allergies or respiratory issues.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and for good reason. This is a great option for homes with ductwork that want an effective cooling solution. These systems can cool every room by a single vent. They can also be paired with thermostats with zones for homes that allow you to control the cooling needs of different rooms in your home.
This is the most commonly used kind of AC system and operates similarly similar to furnaces. Central air conditioners are comprised of an outdoor unit that blasts warm air, and a smaller indoor unit that pulls cold or hot air out of the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through the lines of the air handler, and it absorbs heat in the process. The cooled air then is pushed back into the air handler and is circulated to other rooms via the ductwork.
Central air conditioning systems can also reduce humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler is able to remove excess moisture, and then release it outside which prevents the growth of mildew and mold within your ductwork.
It’s time to replace your cooling system if older than 15 years. A new, high-quality AC system will help you save money on energy costs and also help safeguard the integrity of the ductwork of your home. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can assist you in selecting the right air conditioner for your needs and budget.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, just like any other major appliance requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be performed by the homeowner, while other tasks 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 as well as advantages such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A condenser that is dirty can reduce air flow, reduce the efficiency of your system, and increase the cost of energy. To prevent a build-up of dirt and other debris shut off the power supply to the compressor unit prior to when you begin cleaning. Then, using the help of a garden hose and cloth, gently scrub the blades and fins of your fan to remove dirt, twigs and leaves. After washing the blades, wipe them clean with a paper towel and a sanitation spray. Also, straighten any bent fins that might be caused by wind, or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner has been in use for more than 10 years, it is recommended to hire a professional to inspect the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil and the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines carry refrigerant and any cracks or rust could cause leaks that will result in inadequate cooling and expensive cost of energy.
Air Filter
To enhance the performance of your AC system, make sure you change your air filter regularly. The frequency will vary based on how often the AC runs, the amount of furry family members and the amount of dust you collect in your home. A typical air filter will last for around two weeks or a month during the cool season.
Condensate Drain Line
If your condensation drain line gets blocked by algae, mold, or bugs, the accumulated water on the evaporator coil won’t be able to be flushed away. This could result in flooding of your home, water damage, and the growth of mildew and mold. In order to prevent this the float switch near your indoor evaporator coil will shut off the system if it senses that the drain line is blocked.