The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

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

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

Energy Efficiency

While it’s true that central air conditioners require more energy to operate than a wall-mounted unit but the truth is that the modern systems are much more efficient than the ones used in the past. The ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was phased out by 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are also continually creating new technologies to aid in the use of less energy.

Central AC systems, unlike window AC units, which are designed to cool the space in which they’re installed they 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 draws warm air from your living areas and then it is pushed through the evaporator coil, which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat that’s in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and turn into gas. The refrigerant is then transported to the outdoor unit and the compressor increases its temperature and pressure. When 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 the most efficient when it comes down to controlling temperature in large spaces. They can cool rooms that are further apart than a single AC unit, and they have better energy efficiency.

Depending on how well your home is sealed and insulated, as well as its layout, you might find that a mini-split unit will save you even more energy than a central air conditioner, though. Mini-splits work differently than central AC, but they’re often more efficient due to the fact that they don’t rely on ductwork, which could leak and result in the system working too hard to keep your home at the desired temperature. Contact an HVAC professional from your local Dallas heating company if want to learn more about energy-efficient solutions for cooling your home. They’ll help you choose the best solution for your requirements.

Convenience

Central air conditioning systems aren’t only efficient and comfortable, but they also offer a great variety of convenience. These systems can cool the entire home or business with only one unit and don’t need ducts as window units do. They also typically come with high-quality air filters which can help keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is particularly beneficial for those suffering from respiratory conditions or allergies.

Central AC is a popular cooling system, and for good reason. It’s ideal for homes that already have ductwork and want an effective cooling solution. These systems can cool every room with just one vent. They can also be paired with home zoned thermostats that allow you to manage the cooling needs of different areas in your house.

This is the most commonly used kind of AC system that operates in a similar manner to furnaces. Central air conditioners have an outdoor unit that blasts warm air and a smaller inside unit that pulls cold or hot air from the ductwork. The refrigerant flows from the air handler through the lines, which absorb heat. The cool air is returned to the air handler in the home, and circulated through the ductwork into other rooms.

Another benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it can also aid in reducing humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler is able to remove excess moisture, and then release it to the outside, which helps to prevent the growth of mold and mildew in your ductwork.

If your cooling system is nearing 15 years old it’s time to think about replacing it with a new and better model. A new, top-quality AC system will allow you to save money on energy bills and also protect the integrity of your ductwork. To learn more about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, call us. We can help you select the right air conditioner to meet your budget and requirements.

Maintenance

Like any major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be completed by the homeowner, while others are best left to certified professionals. Signing up for a maintenance contract is the best way to stay on the forefront of AC problems. These agreements usually include discounts on repairs and other perks, such as priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A condenser unit that is dirty will limit air flow, reduce system efficiency, and increase the cost of energy. To prevent a build-up of debris and dirt, turn off the power supply to your compressor unit prior to you begin cleaning. Then with a garden hose, gently clean the fan blades and coil fins to get rid of dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris. After cleaning the blades, wipe them clean with a paper towel and spray for sanitation. Also, straighten any bent fins that might be caused by wind, or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air conditioner has been running for more than 10 years, you must engage a professional to check the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil and the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines are filled with refrigerant and any corrosion or cracks can cause leaks that could result in a decrease in cooling and more expensive cost of energy.

Air Filter

To enhance the performance of your AC system, you should change your air filter regularly. The frequency varies depending on the frequency at which the AC runs, the number of furry family members, and the amount of dust your home collects. A typical air filter will last between two weeks and a month in the cooling season.

Condensate Drain Line

If your condensation drain line is blocked by algae, mold or bugs, the water collected on the evaporator coil will not be able to be flushed away. This can lead to flooding in your basement, water damage in your home, and even mold and mildew growth. To prevent this from happening, the float switch located near your indoor evaporator coil will stop the system when it determines that the drain line is blocked.