The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

Central air conditioning systems make use of ductwork to distribute cool air in every room. The flow of air is controlled by an air handler that includes a filter for capturing particles.

The unit is usually placed in a small enclosure that is outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation can enhance your comfort as it will keep the constant hum and whirr of window AC units from disrupting indoor serenity.

Energy Efficiency

While it’s true that central air conditioners use more energy to run than wall-mounted units but the truth is that the modern systems are much more efficient than those used in years in the past. The ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was eliminated by 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are continually developing new technologies to aid in the use of less energy.

In contrast to window AC units specifically designed to cool only the room in which they are installed, central AC systems can evenly distribute cool air throughout your entire home using air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat signalizes the air handler to start cycling on. The air handler pulls warm air from your living space, 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 transform into a gas. The refrigerant is then transported to the outdoor unit and the compressor increases its temperature and pressure. When it pumps, the heat is transferred from the evaporator and back into your home, where it can be cooled and distributed through the ductwork.

Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes to regulating the temperature in large areas. They can consistently cool rooms that are farther away than a single wall AC unit can and provide greater 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 air conditioner will save you more energy than central air conditioning. Mini-splits function differently than central AC however, they are usually more efficient since they don’t rely on ductwork, which could leak and cause the system to work harder 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 options for cooling your house. They’ll be able to help you choose the best solution for your specific needs.

Convenience

In addition to energy efficiency and comfort, central air conditioning systems also provide a lot of convenience. They can cool your entire home or business with only one unit and don’t need 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 suffering from allergies or respiratory issues.

Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. This is a great option for homes with ductwork that require a cooling solution. These systems can cool all rooms by a single vent. They can also be paired with thermostats that are zoned for home use that allow you to control the cooling needs of different areas in your house.

This is the most popular AC system. It functions in a similar fashion to a furnace. Central air conditioners comprise an outdoor unit that blasts out warm air, and a smaller indoor air handler that draws in cold or hot air through the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through lines that connect to the air handler and absorbs heat in the process. The cooled air is returned to the air handler inside the home and circulated through the ductwork to other rooms.

A further benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it may help to reduce humidity. This is particularly important in our humid climate. The air handler can remove excess moisture, and then release it to the outside which prevents the growth of mildew and mold within your ductwork.

If your current cooling system is getting close to 15 years in age It’s time to consider replacing it with a new and more efficient model. A new, high-quality AC system will save you money on energy bills and also help ensure the integrity of the ductwork of your home. For more information about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, please contact us. We can help you choose the right air conditioner for your needs and budget.

Maintenance

Your air conditioner, like any other major appliance, requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be done by the homeowner however, other tasks should be left to certified professionals. Signing up for a maintenance agreement is the best method to keep on the top of AC problems. These agreements typically come with discounts on repairs and other benefits, like priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A condenser unit that is dirty can limit air flow, reduce system efficiency and drive up energy costs. To prevent a build-up of dirt and other debris shut off the power to your compressor unit prior to you begin cleaning. Then, using an outdoor hose and sponge, gently clean the blades and fins of your fan to get rid of dirt leaves, twigs, and twigs. After washing then, use a towel and a spray of sanitation to clean and disinfect the fan blades. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins that may have been caused by winds, or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, it is recommended to get a professional to examine 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 cracks or corrosion can lead to leaks, which could result in a decrease in cooling and higher cost of energy.

Air Filter

To enhance the performance of your AC system, change your air filter regularly. The frequency varies depending on how often the AC runs, the number of furry family members and the amount of dust you collect in your home. A typical air filter should last for about two weeks to one month during the cooler season.

Condensate Drain Line

If the condensation drain line is blocked by mold, algae, snails, or bugs, it can’t flush away the water collected by your evaporator coil during cooling. This can result in a flooded basement, water damage to your home, as well as mold and mildew growth. To prevent this from happening, the float switch located near the indoor evaporator will shut off the system if it determines that the drain line is clogged.