The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

Central air conditioning systems utilize the ductwork system to distribute cooled air throughout each room. A air handler equipped with an air filter that collects particles regulates the flow of air.

The unit is typically housed in a small enclosure that is outside the home. Its quiet operation improves your comfort by preventing constant noise or whirr of window AC units from disturbing indoor serenity.

Energy Efficiency

Although it is true that central air conditioners use more energy to run than wall-mounted units however, the reality is that today’s systems are more efficient than those used in years in the past. The Ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was eliminated in 2006 and replaced by 410A. Manufacturers are constantly creating new technologies that help their systems use less energy.

Central AC systems, unlike window AC units that are designed to cool the space within which they’re located can distribute cool air evenly throughout your home using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat tells the air handler to begin the process of cycling. The air handler draws hot air from your home and passes it over the evaporator, that is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat from the air causes refrigerant absorb energy before it transforms into a gas. The compressor then raises the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. When it pumps it pushes the heat off of the evaporator coil back into the house, where it’s cooled and distributed throughout your ductwork.

Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes down to controlling temperatures in large spaces. They are able to continuously cool rooms that are further away than a single wall AC unit can, and they offer better energy efficiency overall.

Depending on how well your house is insulated and sealed, and the layout of your home it’s possible that a mini-split unit could save you more energy than central air conditioning, though. Mini-splits are not the same as central ACs, however they are more efficient, as they do not rely on ductwork. Ductwork leaks and can cause the system overwork to cool your house to the desired temperature. If you’re interested to learn more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, speak to an HVAC professional at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning business. They’ll be able to assist you select the most efficient solution for your specific requirements.

Convenience

In addition to energy efficiency and comfort, central air conditioning systems offer a lot of convenience. They can cool the entire business or home with one unit and don’t require ducts like window units. They are also fitted with high-quality filters that keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those who suffer from respiratory issues or allergies.

Central AC is a popular cooling system, and for good reason. This is a great option for homes with ductwork that want a cooling solution. These systems can supply cool air to every room from a single vent. They can also be paired with home zoning, which allows you to manage the cooling requirements in different areas of your home with the help of a smart thermostat.

This is the most common kind of AC system and operates in a similar manner to furnaces. Central air conditioners include an outdoor unit that blows warm air and a smaller indoor unit that pulls hot or cold air out of the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through the lines that connect to the air handler, and it absorbs heat during the process. The cool air is pushed back to the air handler inside the home and circulated via the ductwork to other rooms.

A central air conditioning system can also reduce humidity. This is especially crucial 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 within your ductwork.

If your current cooling system is approaching 15 years in age it’s time to consider replacing it with a fresh and more efficient model. A new, high quality AC system will help you save money on energy costs as well as protect the integrity of your ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can assist you in choosing the right air conditioner for your budget and requirements.

Maintenance

Like every major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular maintenance to run smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be done by the homeowner however, other tasks should be left to licensed experts. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance contract, which often comes with discounts on repairs as well as benefits such as priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A condenser unit that is dirty can hinder air flow, decrease the efficiency of the system and increase energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, switch off your compressor unit to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating. Then, with an outdoor hose and cloth, gently scrub the blades and fins of your fan to remove dirt, twigs and leaves. After washing then, use a towel and sanitation spray to wipe and sanitize the fan blades. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins that might result from wind, or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air cooling system has been in operation for more than 10 years, you should employ a professional to examine the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil with the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines carry refrigerant, and any cracks or rust could cause leaks, which can result in low cooling and costly cost of energy.

Air Filter

To improve the performance of your AC system, change your air filter regularly. The frequency of changing your air filter will depend on how often you run the AC and how many pets reside in the house and how much dust accumulates. A typical air filter should last between two weeks and one month during the cooler season.

Condensate Drain Line

If the drain line for your condensation is blocked by algae, mold or bugs, the accumulated water on the evaporator coil will not be able to flush away. This can result in flooding in your basement, water damage to your home, as well as mold and mildew growth. The float switch near your indoor coil will shut off the system when it detects a blocked drain line.