The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

A central air conditioning system utilizes ductwork to bring cooled air to each room. Airflow is regulated by an air handler that includes a filter for capturing particulates.

The unit is usually placed in a small enclosure located outside the home. Its quiet operation improves your comfort by preventing constant sound or whir of window AC units from disturbing indoor serenity.

Energy Efficiency

While central air conditioners use more energy than wall-mounted units, modern systems are more efficient than the ones used in the past. The ozone-depleting refrigerant R22 was eliminated in 2006 and replaced by an eco-friendly product known as 410A and manufacturers are constantly experimenting with new technologies to aid in the reduction of energy.

In contrast to window AC units specifically designed to cool the room they’re mounted in central AC systems are able to evenly distribute cool air throughout your entire home using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signals that the air handler must begin cycling. The air handler draws warm air from your living space, and it passes over the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat that’s in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy, and then turn into gas. The compressor then increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. When it pumps, the heat is transferred from the evaporator back into your home, where it can be distributed and cooled through the ductwork.

Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes to regulating temperatures in large spaces. They can cool rooms that are farther apart than a single AC unit and also have higher energy efficiency.

You might find that based on the level of insulation and sealing your home is, as well as the arrangement, a mini-split air conditioner can save you more energy than central air cooling. Mini-splits are different from central ACs, but they can be more efficient, as they do not rely on the ductwork. Ductwork leaks and can cause the system overwork to cool your home to the desired temperature. Talk to an HVAC specialist from your local Dallas heating company if you are interested in learning more about energy efficient options for cooling your home. They’ll be able to assist you choose the best solution for your particular requirements.

Convenience

Central air conditioning systems aren’t only efficient and comfortable, they also offer a great variety of convenience. They can cool your entire home or business with only one unit and don’t need ducts like window units. They’re also generally equipped with high-quality air filters which can help to keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is especially helpful for those suffering from respiratory or allergies.

Central AC is one of the most popular kinds of cooling systems and with good reason. It is ideal for homes that already have ductwork and require a reliable cooling solution. These systems can provide cool air to every room through a single vent and can be used with home zone control, which allows you to regulate the cooling requirements in different areas of the home using a smart thermostat.

This is the most commonly used AC system. It operates in a similar fashion similar to a furnace. Central air conditioners comprise an outdoor unit that blows warm air and a smaller indoor air handler that pulls in hot or cold air through the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped 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.

Central air conditioning systems can also reduce humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler can eliminate excess moisture and let it out to stop the growth of mold and mildew in your ductwork.

If your cooling system is nearing 15 years old, it’s time to consider replacing it with a brand new and better model. A new, high-quality AC system will save you money on energy costs and help to ensure the integrity of your home’s ductwork. For more information about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, contact us. We can assist you in selecting the best air conditioner to meet your budget and needs.

Maintenance

Your air conditioner, as any other major appliance requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be handled by homeowners, while others should be left to licensed experts. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance agreement, which often comes with discounts on repairs and benefits such as priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A dirty condenser unit will limit air flow, reduce system efficiency, and increase the cost of energy. To avoid the build-up of dirt and other debris shut off the power supply to your compressor unit prior to you begin cleaning. Then, with a garden hose and a cloth, gently scrub the coil fins and blades of your fan to remove dirt, twigs and leaves. After washing then, use a towel and a spray of sanitation to clean and disinfect the fan blades. It’s also an excellent idea to straighten any bent fins, which may be caused by the wind or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air conditioner is over 10 years old, you should consult a professional to inspect the line sets, the copper tubes connecting the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are filled with refrigerant and any cracks or corrosion can cause leaks that could result in a decrease in cooling and more expensive costs for utility.

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 how often your AC runs, the number of furry family members and how much dust you collect in your home. A typical air filter should last about two weeks to one month during the cooling season.

Condensate Drain Line

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