The Benefits of a Central AC Unit
Central air conditioning uses ductwork to deliver cooled air to all rooms. Airflow is regulated by an air handler which includes a filter for capturing particulates.
The unit is typically located in a small enclosure that is outside the house. The unit’s quiet operation will increase your comfort as it will stop the constant hum and whirr of window AC units from disrupting indoor peace.
Energy Efficiency
While it’s true that central air conditioners use more energy to operate than a wall-mounted unit but the truth is that the modern systems are much more efficient than those used in the in the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was eliminated by 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are also continuously creating new technologies to help their systems use less energy.
Central AC systems, unlike window AC units, which are designed to cool only the area within which they’re located, can distribute cool air throughout your home by using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signals that the air handler must begin to cycle. The air handler pulls warm air from your living spaces, and it passes over the evaporator coil, which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy, and then turn into gas. The compressor then increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. When it pumps, the heat is transferred from the evaporator, and then returned to your home, where it can be cooled and distributed through the ductwork.
Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes to regulating temperatures in large spaces. They can cool rooms that are further from one AC unit and have greater energy efficiency.
Depending on how well your house is insulated and sealed, and also the layout, you might find that a mini-split could save you more energy than central air conditioning however. Mini-splits are not the same as central ACs, but they can be more efficient since they don’t require the ductwork. Ductwork leaks can make the system overwork in order to cool your home to the desired temperature. If you’re interested in learning more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, talk with an HVAC professional 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 a lot of convenience. They can cool the entire home or business with one unit, and do not require vents 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 beneficial for people suffering from allergies or respiratory issues.
Central AC is a popular cooling system, and for good reason. It is ideal for homes with ductwork and want an effective cooling solution. These systems are able to provide cool air to every room from a single vent and can be used with home zoning, which allows you to control your cooling needs in different areas of the home using the help of a smart thermostat.
This is the most commonly used AC system. It operates in a similar fashion to furnaces. Central air conditioners are comprised of a large outdoor unit that blasts warm air, and a smaller indoor unit that pulls hot or cold air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is circulated through the lines of the air handler, and it absorbs heat as it goes through the process. The cool air is pumped back into the air handler, and then is circulated to other rooms via the ductwork.
An added benefit of central air conditioning is that it may aid in reducing humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler will take excess moisture from your ductwork and release it outside. This will help to stop the growth of mildew and mold.
If your cooling system is nearing 15 years old it’s time to consider replacing it with a brand new and improved model. A new, top-quality AC system can help you reduce your energy bills and also protect the integrity of your ductwork. For more information about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, please contact us. We can help you select the best air conditioner for your budget and needs.
Maintenance
Your air conditioner, as any other major appliance requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Some routine maintenance can be done by the homeowner while other tasks should be left to licensed professionals. The best way to avoid getting caught up of AC issues is to sign to a maintenance contract which usually includes discounts on repairs and benefits such as priority scheduling.
Clean the Condenser Unit
A dirty condenser will reduce air flow, decrease the efficiency of your system, and increase energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, switch off your compressor unit to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating. Then, using the help of a garden hose and sponge, gently clean the blades and fins of your fan to eliminate dirt leaves, twigs, and twigs. After washing using a paper towel and a spray of sanitation to wipe and sanitize the fan blades. You should also straighten any bent fins that may be caused by winds, or other weather conditions.
Line Sets
If your central air conditioner is over 10 years old, you must consult a professional to inspect the lines, the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil with the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are filled with refrigerant, and any corrosion or cracks can lead to leaks, which will result in poor cooling and higher utility bills.
Air Filter
Change your air filter frequently to keep it clean and improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter is contingent on how often you run the AC and how many pets are in the house, and how much dust is collected. In general, a standard air filter lasts for around two months or two weeks during the cooling season.
Condensate Drain Line
If the drain line for condensation is clogged with algae, mold or snails, it can’t flush away the water that is collected by your evaporator coil during cooling. 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 close to your indoor evaporator coil will shut off the system if it detects that the drain line is clogged.