The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning makes use of ductwork to deliver cool air to every room. A air handler equipped with an air filter that collects particles regulates the flow of air.
The unit is usually housed in a small enclosure located outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation can enhance your comfort as it will stop the constant hum and whirrr of window AC units from disrupting your indoor serenity.
Energy Efficiency
Although central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units, modern systems are more efficient than the ones used in the past. The Ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was eliminated by 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are constantly creating new technologies to help their systems use less energy.
Central AC systems, unlike window AC units, which are made to cool only the room in which they’re placed 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 to cycle. The air handler pulls hot air from your home and then passes it through the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigeration. The heat in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into gas. The refrigerant then gets pumped to the outdoor unit and the compressor increases its temperature and pressure. As it pumps, heat is transferred from the evaporator back into your home, where it will be cooled and distributed through the ductwork.
The truth is that central AC systems are the most efficient choice for controlling the temperature of large areas. They can cool rooms that are farther away from a single AC unit, and they have better energy efficiency.
You might find that based on how well insulated and sealed your home is and the layout, a mini-split conditioner will use less energy than central air cooling. Mini-splits work differently than central AC however, they are usually more efficient because they don’t rely on ductwork, which could leak and cause the system to over-work in order to keep your home at the desired temperature. Contact an HVAC professional from your local Dallas heating company if you are interested in learning more about energy-efficient solutions for cooling your home. They’ll help you choose the best solution for your specific needs.
Convenience
Central air conditioning systems are not only efficient and comfortable, but they also provide a great amount of convenience. These systems are able to cool a whole home or office with just one unit and do not require ducts like window units do. These systems are also equipped with high-quality filters that keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those suffering from respiratory or allergies.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. This is a great option for homes with ductwork that require an effective cooling solution. These systems can cool each room with just one vent. They can also be used with thermostats with zones for homes that allow you to manage the cooling needs of different areas within your home.
This is the most commonly used kind of AC system and operates in a similar manner similar to a furnace. A central air conditioner has a big outdoor unit that blows out warm air and a smaller indoor air handler that pulls in hot or cold air through the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through lines of the air handler, and it absorbs heat in the process. The cooled air is pumped back into the air handler and it is then circulated to other rooms via the ductwork.
An added benefit of central air conditioning is that it may help to reduce humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler will take excess moisture from your ductwork, and release it to the outside. This will help to stop the growth of mildew and mold.
If your cooling system is nearing 15 years in age it’s time to think about replacing it with a brand new and better model. A new, top-quality AC system will save you money on energy costs and help to protect the integrity of the ductwork in your home. To learn more about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, call us. We can help you select the right air conditioner to meet your budget and needs.
Maintenance
As with every major appliance, your air conditioner needs regular maintenance to run smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be performed by the homeowner, while others should be left to licensed experts. The best way to avoid getting caught up of AC issues is to sign to a maintenance contract, which often comes with a discount on repairs and perks like 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 the accumulation of dirt and other debris shut off the power to your compressor unit prior to you begin cleaning. Then with a garden hose, gently wash the fan blades and coil fins to get rid of dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris. After washing the blades, wipe them clean using a paper towel and a sanitation spray. It’s also a good idea to straighten out any noticeable bent fins, which 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 engage a professional to check 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 can lead to leaks, which will result in poor cooling and more expensive utility bills.
Air Filter
To improve the performance of your AC system, change your air filter on a regular basis. The frequency of changing your air filter will depend on the frequency you run the AC and how many pets reside in the home, and how much dust gets accumulated. In general, a standard air filter can last for around two weeks or a month in the cool season.
Condensate Drain Line
If your condensation drain line becomes clogged by algae, mold or bugs, the accumulated water on the evaporator coil will not be able to be flushed 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 if it detects a blocked drain line.
