The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

Central air conditioning uses ductwork to deliver cooled air to every room. Airflow is controlled by an air handler which includes a filter for capturing particulates.

The unit is usually housed in a small enclosure that is outside the home. Its noiseless operation enhances your peace by preventing the constant hum or whir of window AC units from disturbing the peace and quiet of your indoor space.

Energy Efficiency

Although central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units, today’s systems are more efficient than the ones used in the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was phased out in 2006 and replaced by 410A. Manufacturers are continuously creating new technologies to aid in the use of less energy.

Central AC systems, unlike window AC units, which are designed to cool only the area within which they’re located they can distribute cool air evenly throughout your home with 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 spaces and then passes it over the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat contained in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy, and then turn into gas. The refrigerant then gets pumped to the outdoor unit, where the compressor raises 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.

The truth is that central AC systems are the most efficient option in regulating the temperature of large spaces. They are able to continuously cool rooms that are farther away than a single wall AC unit could and provide greater energy efficiency overall.

Depending on how well your home is well-insulated and sealed and also the layout it’s possible that a mini-split could save you more energy than central air conditioners, though. Mini-splits operate differently than central AC however they’re usually more efficient due to the fact that they don’t rely on ductwork, which could leak and cause the system to work harder in order to bring your home up to the desired temperature. If you’re interested in learning more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, you should talk to an HVAC specialist at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They’ll help you select the most efficient solution for your particular needs.

Convenience

Central air conditioning systems aren’t only efficient and comfortable, but they also offer a great amount of convenience. These systems can cool the entire business or home with one unit, and do not require ducts as window units do. They’re also generally equipped with top-quality air filters that can help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is especially helpful for people suffering from allergies or respiratory ailments.

Central AC is one of the most well-known types of cooling systems, and with good reason. It’s ideal for homes that already have ductwork and require a reliable cooling solution. These systems can cool all rooms with a single vent. They can also be used with home zoned thermostats that allow you to regulate the cooling requirements of different areas within your house.

This is the most common type of AC system that operates similarly as a furnace. Central air conditioners have a big outdoor unit that blows out warm air, and an indoor air handler that pulls in cold or hot air through the ductwork. The refrigerant is circulated through the lines from the air handler and absorbs heat during the process. The cooled air is returned to the air handler inside the home and circulated via the ductwork to other rooms.

A further benefit of central air conditioning is that it may aid in reducing humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler will take excess moisture from your ductwork, and release it outside. This helps prevent the growth of mildew and mold.

If your current cooling system is approaching 15 years in age, it’s time to think about replacing it with a brand new and improved model. A new, high-quality AC system will save you money on energy bills and help to ensure the integrity of the ductwork of your home. To learn more about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, contact us. We can assist you in selecting the best air conditioner to meet your budget and needs.

Maintenance

Like any other major appliance air conditioner, your air conditioner requires regular service to keep running smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be done by the homeowner however, other tasks should be handled by qualified experts. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance contract which usually includes a discount on repairs and perks like priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A dirty condenser unit will hinder air flow, decrease system efficiency, and increase energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, shut off the compressor unit to prevent dirt and debris from building up. Then with a garden hose, gently wash 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 towel and spray for sanitation. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins, which could be caused by wind or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air conditioner is over 10 years old, you must consult a professional to inspect the lines, the copper tubes connecting the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil and the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are filled with refrigerant, and any corrosion or cracks could lead to leaks, which will result in poor cooling and more expensive utility bills.

Air Filter

To enhance the performance of your AC system, make sure you change your air filter regularly. The frequency of change varies based on how often the AC runs, the amount of furry members in your family, and how much dust you collect in your home. A standard air filter should last between two weeks and one month during the cooler season.

Condensate Drain Line

If the drain line for condensation is blocked by algae, mold, snails, or bugs the line won’t flush out the water that’s collected by your evaporator unit during cooling. This can result in a flooded 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 senses that the drain line has become blocked.