The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

Central air conditioning systems make use of ductwork to distribute cooled air in every room. Airflow is regulated by an air handler which includes a filter for capturing particulates.

The unit is typically situated in a small enclosure located outside of the house. Its quiet operation improves your comfort by preventing the constant hum or whir of window AC units from disrupting indoor serenity.

Energy Efficiency

While it’s true that central air conditioners use more energy to operate than a wall-mounted unit, the truth is that the modern systems are more efficient than those in the ago. The Ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was removed in 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are continually developing new technologies to help their systems use less energy.

Contrary to window AC units that are specifically designed to cool only the room in which they are installed central AC systems are able to evenly distribute cool air throughout your home by using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat tells you that the air handler needs to begin cycling. The air handler pulls warm air from your living areas, and it passes over the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat from the air causes refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into a gas. The compressor then increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. As it pumps it, it carries the heat away from the evaporator coil and back into the house, where it’s cooled and circulated through the ductwork.

The truth is that central AC systems are the most efficient choice in controlling the temperature of large spaces. They can cool rooms that are farther away from a single AC unit and also have higher energy efficiency.

Depending on how well your home is well-insulated and sealed as well as its layout it is possible that a mini-split unit will save you even more energy than central air conditioning however. Mini-splits operate differently than central AC however they’re usually more efficient because they don’t rely on ductwork, which could leak and result in the system working too hard to cool your home to the desired temperature. Talk to an HVAC expert from your local Dallas heating company if you want to know more about energy-efficient solutions for cooling your home. They’ll be able to help you select the right solution for your particular requirements.

Convenience

In addition to the energy efficiency and comfort, central air conditioning systems provide lots of convenience. They can cool your entire office or home in one unit and don’t require ducts as window units do. They are also fitted with high-quality filters that keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those suffering from respiratory issues or allergies.

Central AC is one of the most well-known kinds of cooling systems and with good reason. It is ideal for homes that already have ductwork and need a powerful cooling solution. These systems can cool all rooms with a single vent. They can also be paired with thermostats with zones for homes that let you regulate the cooling requirements of different areas within your house.

This is the most popular kind of AC system and operates similarly as furnaces. A central air conditioner has an outdoor unit that blasts out warm air, and an indoor air handler that pulls in hot or cold air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped out of the air handler via lines, taking in heat. The cooled air then is pumped back into the air handler and is circulated to other rooms via the ductwork.

A further benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it can help to reduce humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler can remove excess moisture, and then release it outside to stop the development of mold and mildew within your ductwork.

It’s time to replace your cooling system if older than 15 years. A new, high-quality AC system will help you save money on energy costs and also help protect the integrity of the ductwork in your home. For more information about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, contact us. We can help you choose the best air conditioner to meet your budget and needs.

Maintenance

Just like every major appliance, your air conditioner needs regular maintenance to run smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be done 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 that usually comes with discounts on repairs as well as advantages such as priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A dirty condenser unit will restrict air flow, reduce system efficiency and drive up the cost of energy. To prevent a build-up of dirt and debris, turn off the power to your compressor unit before you begin cleaning. Then with a garden hose, gently wash the coil fins and fan blades to get rid of dirt leaves, twigs and other debris. After washing, use a paper towel and a spray of sanitation to wipe and sanitize the fan blades. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins that could result from 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 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 are a conduit for refrigerant and any cracks or rust could cause leaks, which can result in low cooling and costly costs for utility.

Air Filter

Replace your air filter on a regular basis 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 use the AC, how many pets reside in the home and how much dust accumulates. A standard air filter should last between two weeks and one month during the cooler season.

Condensate Drain Line

If the drain line for your condensation gets blocked by algae, mold or bugs, the water that collects on the evaporator coil won’t be able to flush away. This could lead to a flooded basement, water damage in your home, and mold and mildew growth. The float switch in your indoor coil will shut down the system if it detects a blocked drain line.