How to Save Money With a Central Air Conditioning System
Central air conditioning systems can cool large areas and rooms at the same time. They function by pushing cooled air into the home via ductwork that can reach up to 21 SEER.
The system pulls air from different rooms of the house through return air ducts and filters it, removing lint, dust, pet dander and microscopic pollutants. It then sends the filtered air back to the rooms.
Cost
Depending on the size of your home and the type of unit you choose and the degree of energy efficiency it can cost in a wide range. The best way to determine what your exact costs will be is to talk with a reliable air conditioning expert. They will be able to determine what size unit is required and the amount of ductwork required, in addition to other factors.
The choice between a packaged unit or split system is a significant aspect. A split system is composed of components that are located in several different locations, whereas an integrated unit contains all its components in one outdoor unit. The former will typically cost less than the latter, but you must be aware that split systems can experience issues like water leaks from the unit or weird sounds emanating from it. These problems are usually caused by blocked drainage lines or the need to recharge refrigerant.
The SEER rating is an additional aspect to take into consideration when buying a new central air conditioner. The more the SEER the better the system. This can reduce your utility bills over time. If you’re thinking about upgrading to a high-efficiency unit, talk to an installer to find out what you could save.
It is important to know that installation costs are dependent on both the labor and the materials. If you’re hiring a professional to install your central AC system and it requires the installation of ductwork, you must be aware that it will cost more than a system that does not have ductwork. Additionally, the cost of an air conditioner replacement can vary from year-to-year due to inflation and changes in energy efficiency standards. This is why it is recommended to look for a unit during the off / low season. This will help you save thousands of dollars on a new system.
Efficiency
When you are looking for an air conditioner, you need to look at the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating. The SEER rating is determined by the cooling capacity of a unit AC in a typical summer by the total electrical energy input for the same period. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient an air conditioning system will be. Modern air conditioners are usually more efficient than older models, however the amount of savings will be contingent on the climate of your area and the size of your house.
A more modern central air conditioning unit could have a SEER rating of up to 21. Older air conditioners typically have a SEER rating of 10 or less. Although it’s still legal to operate older models but their performance will be drastically reduced by wear and tear.
Newer central air conditioning installations are usually more efficient than older ductless systems and wall units. They are the most efficient options for homeowners, and offer significant savings in both terms of money and energy. They also offer features like variable speed blowers as well as dual heat exchangers and sophisticated control boards.
The evaporator inside an air conditioner absorbs and cools the air inside your home. The condenser, housed in the outdoor unit transforms the refrigerant that evaporates to a liquid by the same process as heat is transferred from a warmer to cooler substance. The condenser releases the liquid into the coils in the evaporator, where it is cooled and returned to its original state.
If your air conditioner doesn’t work as well as it used to, you should replace the air filter and clean the evaporator coils frequently. Also, keep your windows and doors closed to prevent hot air from entering your home, which causes your AC to be more efficient in maintaining an appropriate temperature. Installing a temperature control programable system will improve the efficiency and operation of your central air conditioner. This will automatically shut off your air conditioning off when you’re away from your home and then return it to normal operation about 30 minutes before your return.
Noise
Air conditioning units make a variety of sounds when they are in normal operation. Some of them are harmless, and others indicate that something is wrong with the unit. By listening to these sounds, you can help you determine whether the unit needs professional repairs. Some of the most common AC noises are rattling banging, hissing, humming, and screeching.
Hissing sounds are a sign that the system is trying to draw in more air than it can handle. This can be resolved by cleaning or replacing the air filter. This simple step can dramatically reduce the amount of noise that an air conditioner produces.
Another reason that could cause hissing is a refrigerant leak. This can be dangerous because the leak could let harmful gases be released into the air. A professional can examine and repair your unit to prevent this from happening.
Popping or clicking sounds are usually caused by electrical problems in the compressor or thermostat. These sounds are difficult to recognize especially if they are constant and loud. If you hear these sounds repeatedly then it’s time to get an expert.
Rattling sounds are often caused by debris or loose parts that have found their way into the unit. This can cause the unit to move around, which can cause the clunking sound. As part of routine maintenance, it’s essential to inspect loose screws and other parts.
A rattling sound can suggest that the fan motor is in danger of wearing out. This could be a costly issue to fix. However it is preventable by having a professional perform regular maintenance inspections.
In some instances the humming sound could be an indication that the compressor is running. It’s not a huge issue, but it can be annoying for homeowners. Installing a compressor blanket can reduce the sound of the humming. A technician can assist you in deciding what option is the best one for your home. Another way to reduce the noise is to plant a shrub or fence that blocks the sound from entering your yard. It is best to test this first by netting only a small portion of your yard and observing whether it works.
Installation
A new air conditioning system is an investment and it is essential to employ a licensed professional to ensure the work is done right. It is also recommended to get multiple bids from different contractors before making the final decision. Choose a company that has competitive prices and doesn’t cut corners. However, be wary of extremely low bids - they may be the result of cut-rate materials or substandard work.
It is essential to select the right size air conditioner for your home. A large unit can cool your home quickly however it won’t eliminate the humidity as efficiently as a smaller one. Equally, a smaller unit is inefficient and will increase your energy costs.
The cost of a central air system depends on a number of factors such as the model of the unit you buy and the size 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 long it will take to put them in place.
Central air systems use the ductwork system to cool your home. They are comprised of two main components namely an outdoor condenser as well as an indoor air handler. The condenser, compressor and evaporator coils are located in the outdoor unit. If you live in a big house, it is a good idea to choose a split system, which has the condenser and compressor in an outdoor unit, and the air handler in the indoor unit.
If you already have ductwork it is possible to install a central air conditioner, but it may require some adjustments before you can start the work. The ducts should be insulated with spray foam, batting or reflective wrap to prevent loss of heat. Insulate any unoccupied crawl spaces or attics.
If you are thinking about a central air conditioning system, be sure to select a high-efficiency model with an excellent SEER rating. This will save you money over the long term and will lower your energy bills. Additionally, you could be eligible for federal rebates that can help offset the cost of an efficient AC unit.
