The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

Central air conditioning makes use of ductwork to deliver cool air to each room. Airflow is controlled by an air handler which includes a filter for capturing particulates.

The unit is usually placed in a small enclosure located outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation can enhance your comfort, since it will prevent the constant hum and whirrrr of window AC units from disrupting indoor serenity.

Energy Efficiency

While central air conditioners use more energy than wall-mounted units, today’s systems are more efficient than models of the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was eliminated in 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are continually creating new technologies to help their systems use less energy.

Central AC systems, in contrast to window AC units that are designed to cool only the room in which they’re installed, can distribute cool air throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signals the air handler to start running. The air handler is able to pull hot air from your home and passes it over the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigeration. The heat that is released into the air causes refrigerant to absorb energy, and then transform into gas. The refrigerant then gets pumped to the outdoor unit, where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. As it pumps, heat is transferred from the evaporator, and then returned to your home, where it can be distributed and cooled through the ductwork.

The reality is that central AC systems are the most efficient option in managing the temperature of large areas. They are able to consistently cool rooms that are farther from one another than one wall AC unit can, and they offer better energy efficiency in general.

You might find that based on the level of insulation and sealing your home is and the layout, a mini-split conditioner will use less energy than central air cooling. Mini-splits differ from central ACs, but they are more efficient since they don’t require ductwork. Ductwork leaks and could cause the system to overwork in order to cool your home to the desired temperature. If you’re interested to learn more about energy-efficient options for cooling your home, talk with an HVAC specialist at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning business. They’ll help you select the right solution for your particular requirements.

Convenience

Central air conditioning systems are not only efficient and comfortable, they also offer a great amount of convenience. These systems can cool the entire business or home with only one unit and don’t need vents like window units. They are also usually equipped with high-quality air filters that can help keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is particularly helpful for people suffering from allergies or respiratory ailments.

Central AC is one of the most sought-after types of cooling systems, and for good reason. It is ideal for homes that already have ductwork and require a reliable cooling solution. These systems are able to provide cool air to every room with just one vent. They can also be used with home zoning, which allows you to control your cooling needs in different areas of the home using an intelligent thermostat.

This is the most commonly used type of AC system and operates similarly similar to a furnace. Central air conditioners have an outdoor unit that blows warm air, and a smaller indoor unit that pulls cold or hot air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped from the air handler through the lines, absorbing heat. The cool air is pumped back into the air handler before being it is then circulated to other rooms via the ductwork.

An added benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it may aid in reducing humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler can remove excess moisture and then release it to the outside to stop the development of mold and mildew in your ductwork.

If your current cooling system is getting close to 15 years in age it’s time to consider replacing it with a brand new and more efficient model. A new, high quality AC system will allow you to save money on energy costs as well as safeguard 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 to meet your budget and requirements.

Maintenance

As with every major appliance, your air conditioner needs regular maintenance to run smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be performed by the homeowner, while others are best left to certified experts. Signing up for a maintenance agreement is the best method to keep on top of AC problems. These contracts often come with discounts on repairs and other advantages, like priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A condenser unit that is dirty can hinder air flow, decrease system efficiency and drive up the cost of energy. To prevent a build-up of debris and dirt, turn off the power to the compressor unit prior to when you begin cleaning. Then, with an outdoor hose and cloth, gently scrub the blades and fins of your fan to remove dirt, twigs and leaves. After cleaning the blades, wipe them with a towel and spray to clean. You should also straighten any bent fins that might be caused by the wind or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air conditioner has been in use for more than 10 years, you must employ a professional to examine the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines carry refrigerant and any cracks or rust could cause leaks that can result in poor cooling and high costs for utility.

Air Filter

To enhance the performance of your AC system, change your air filter regularly. The frequency will vary based on how often the AC is running, the number of furry family members and the amount of dust is accumulated in your home. A typical air filter should last for about two weeks to one month during the cooler season.

Condensate Drain Line

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