The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

Central air conditioning systems make use of ductwork to distribute cool air throughout the rooms. A air handler equipped with filters that trap particulates regulates airflow.

The unit is usually located in an enclosure that is outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation will enhance your comfort, since it will keep the constant hum and whirr of window AC units from disrupting indoor serenity.

Energy Efficiency

Although central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units do, modern systems are more efficient than models of the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was eliminated in 2006 and replaced by 410A. Manufacturers are also constantly creating new technologies that help their systems use less energy.

Unlike window AC units specifically designed to cool the area they’re installed in, central AC systems can distribute cool air throughout your home using air ducts. The cooling process starts 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 over the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigeration. The heat in the air causes refrigerant to absorb energy before it transforms into gas. The compressor then raises the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. As it pumps, the heat is pushed away from the evaporator back into your home, where it will be cooled again and distributed through the ductwork.

Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes down to regulating temperatures in large spaces. They are able to consistently cool rooms that are farther apart than one wall AC unit can, and they offer better energy efficiency overall.

Depending on how well your house is insulated and sealed, as well as its layout it’s possible that a mini-split can save you even more energy than a central air conditioner, though. Mini-splits function differently than central AC however, they are usually more efficient because they do not rely on ductwork which can leak and cause the system to over-work to cool your home to the desired temperature. If you’re interested to learn more about energy-efficient options for cooling your home, speak to an HVAC specialist at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They’ll help you select the most efficient solution for your specific needs.

Convenience

In addition to energy efficiency and comfort central air conditioning systems provide a lot of convenience. These systems are able to cool an entire 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 to help keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those suffering from respiratory issues or allergies.

Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. It’s ideal for homes that already have ductwork and require a reliable cooling solution. These systems can cool all rooms with just one vent. They can also be paired with thermostats with zones for homes, which allow you to regulate the cooling requirements of different areas in your house.

This is the most commonly used kind of AC system that operates similarly to a furnace. Central air conditioners include a large 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 from the air handler via lines, taking in heat. The cooled air is then pushed back to the air handler in the home and circulated through the ductwork to other rooms.

A further benefit of central air conditioning is that it may aid in reducing humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler will remove excess moisture from your ductwork, and release it to the outside. This helps to prevent mold and mildew growth.

It’s time to upgrade your cooling system if it’s older than 15 years. A new, high quality AC system will allow you to save money on energy costs and also protect the integrity of your ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can help you choose the best air conditioner to meet your needs and budget.

Maintenance

As with any major appliance air conditioner, your air conditioner requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Certain 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 contract, which often comes with a discount on repairs and benefits 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 debris switch off the power supply to your compressor unit prior to you begin cleaning. Then with a garden hose, gently clean the coil fins and fan blades to get rid of dirt leaves, twigs and other debris. After washing, use a paper towel and spray for sanitation to clean and disinfect the fan blades. It’s also an excellent idea to straighten any bent fins, which may 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 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. any cracks or corrosion can cause leaks that will result in poor cooling and more expensive 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 change varies based on the frequency at which the AC runs, 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 a month in the cooling season.

Condensate Drain Line

If the line that drains condensation is blocked by algae, mold, snails, or bugs, it can’t flush away the water collected by your evaporator coil in cooling. This can lead to flooding of your basement, water damage in your home, and even mold and mildew growth. The float switch near your indoor coil will shut off the system when it detects a blockage in the drain line.