How to Save Money With a Central Air Conditioning System
Central air conditioning systems are able to cool large areas and multiple rooms at the same time. They function by pushing cooled air into a home through ductwork that can reach up to 21 SEER.
The system filters air pulled from different rooms in the home by return air ducts, which remove microscopic particles of dust, dirt, pet hair, and lint. It then sends the filtered air back to those rooms.
Cost
Depending on the size of your house and the type of unit you select and how energy efficient it is it can cost significantly. The best way to determine what your exact costs will be is to talk with a reliable air conditioning expert. They can assist you to determine the size of unit required and the amount of ductwork required, in addition to other factors.
The most important thing to consider is whether you’d like a split system or a packaged unit. A packaged unit is comprised of all the parts within one unit, while the split system is composed of components in two different places. The former is generally less than the latter, however it is important to know that split systems could face issues such as water leakage from the unit or weird sounds emanating from it. These issues are typically caused by clogged drainage lines or the need to recharge refrigerant.
Another aspect is the SEER rating of your new central air conditioning system. The higher the SEER rating the more energy efficient the system is. This could lower your utility bills over time. If you’re considering upgrading to a high-efficiency unit, speak to an installer to find out the savings you could make.
It is also important to be aware that the cost of installation is dependent on both labor and materials. If you’re having a professional install your central AC system and it requires the installation of ductwork, you must know that this will cost you more than a system with no ductwork. Finally, the cost of an air conditioner could change from year to year due to the rate of inflation and changes in energy efficiency standards. It is recommended to purchase an air conditioner in the off-season or in low season. This will help you save thousands of dollars when you buy a new system.
Efficiency
When you are buying an air conditioner, consider the seasonal efficiency ratio (SEER). SEER ratings are determined by the cooling capacity of an AC unit during the normal summer season divided by its total electric energy input over the same period. The higher the SEER, the more efficient an air conditioning system will be. The latest models are more efficient, but the savings will vary based on the climate you live in and the size of your house.
A central air conditioning system that is newer may have a rating of SEER up to 21. Older air conditioners typically have SEERs of 10 or less. While it’s still legal to operate these older units however, their performance will be drastically reduced by wear and tear.
The modern central air conditioning systems are more efficient than older wall or ductless units. They are the most energy efficient options for homeowners, and they offer substantial savings in terms of energy and money. They also have features like variable-speed blowers, dual exchange units, and advanced control panels.
The evaporator is a component of an air conditioner that absorbs and cools air in your home. The condenser, located in the outdoor unit, converts the refrigerant that has evaporated back into liquid by the same method that heat moves from a warmer to a cooler substance. The condenser releases the liquid within the coils of the evaporator, where it is then cooled back to its original temperature.
If your air conditioner isn’t perform as well as it did in the past and you’re not sure what to do, replace the air filter and clean the evaporator coils frequently. It is also important to keep the doors and windows shut to stop the infiltration of hot air into your home, which forces your air conditioner to be more efficient in maintaining the temperature at a comfortable level. You can further enhance the operation and efficiency of your central air conditioning system by putting in an adjustable thermostat. This will shut off your air conditioner when you are away from home and switch it back on approximately 30 minutes before you arrive.
Noise
Air conditioning units make different sounds in normal operation. Some are harmless and others may indicate that there is an issue with the unit. It is important to listen to these sounds to identify the source of the noise and if it requires an expert repair or not. The most commonly heard AC sounds include rattling and hissing, banging and humming.
Hissing sounds are a sign that the system is trying to draw in more air than it can handle. This can be solved by cleaning or replacing the air filter. This simple step can dramatically reduce the amount of noise that the air conditioner makes.
A leak of refrigerant could cause the sound of hissing. This is extremely risky because the leak could let harmful refrigerant enter the atmosphere. This problem can be avoided by having a professional inspect and repair the unit.
The popping and clicking sounds are usually caused by internal electrical problems with the compressor or thermostat. These sounds are difficult to recognize, particularly if they are consistent and loud. If you hear these sounds over and over again then it’s time to contact a professional.
Rattling sounds are often caused by debris or loose parts that have found their way into the unit. This could cause components to move around, causing the clunking noise. As part of regular maintenance, it’s crucial to examine loose screws and other components.
A rattling sound could be an indication that the fan motor has worn out. This can be costly to fix. However it is preventable by having a professional perform regular maintenance inspections.
In some instances the humming sound is simply an indication that the compressor is in operation. This is usually not a problem, but it can be annoying for homeowners. Installing a compressor blanket could reduce the sound of humming. A technician can help you decide which one is the best option for your home. The planting of a fence or a shrub that blocks the noise from entering the yard is another way to reduce the noise. It is recommended to test this method first by netting the area of your yard and observing if it works.
Installation
A new air conditioning system is an investment and it is important to work with a licensed professional to ensure the work is done right. Before deciding on a contractor, it is advisable to get multiple bids from various contractors. Find a contractor that offers competitive prices without cutting corners. Be wary of bids that are low as they could be the result of substandard materials or workmanship.
It is important to choose the right size air conditioner for your home. An oversized unit will cool your home quickly, but it won’t remove humidity as effectively as a smaller model. Also, a unit that is too small isn’t efficient and can increase your energy costs.
The cost of a central air system depends on a variety of factors that include the type of unit you purchase and the square footage of your home. It is recommended to get a professional to take measurements of your house prior to installing the AC. This will allow you to determine how many AC units you will require and how time it will take to put them in place.
Central air systems utilize ductwork in order to cool your home. They are comprised of two major components which are an outdoor condenser and an indoor air handler. The compressor, condenser and evaporator coils are located in the outdoor unit. If you have a big home, a split-system is the best option. The compressor, condenser and air handler are located in the outdoor unit.
If you have existing ductwork it is possible to install central air conditioners however, it will require some modifications before you can start the work. The ducts should be insulated with batting, spray foam, or reflective wrap to prevent heat loss. Insulate any unoccupied attics or crawl spaces.
Choose a model with a high rating of SEER in the case of central air conditioning systems. This will save you money over the long term and will lower your energy bills. You may also be eligible for federal rebates which will reduce the cost of an energy-efficient AC unit.