The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

Central air conditioning systems utilize ductwork to distribute cooled air throughout each room. The flow of air is controlled by an air handler that includes a filter for capturing particulates.

The unit is typically located in a small enclosure that is outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation can enhance your comfort, since it will keep the constant hum and whirr of window AC units from disrupting your indoor peace.

Energy Efficiency

Central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units, today’s systems are more efficient than the ones of the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was eliminated in 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are also constantly creating new technologies that help their systems use less energy.

Contrary to window AC units specifically designed to cool the room in which they are installed central AC systems are able to evenly distribute cool air throughout your entire home with air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat signals the air handler to begin running. The air handler pulls hot air from your home and passes it through the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigeration. The heat contained in the air causes the refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into gas. The refrigerant is then transported to the outdoor unit and the compressor increases its temperature and pressure. As it pumps, the heat is transferred from the evaporator, and then returned to your home, where it can be distributed and cooled through the ductwork.

Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes to controlling the temperature in large areas. They are able to continuously cool rooms that are farther away than one wall AC unit can, and they offer better energy efficiency overall.

It could be that, based on the level of insulation and sealing your home is and the layout, a mini-split air conditioner will use less energy than central air cooling. Mini-splits operate differently than central AC however they’re usually more efficient because they do not rely on ductwork which can leak and cause the system to work harder to bring your home up to the desired temperature. Contact an HVAC professional from your local Dallas heating company if want to know more about energy efficient options for cooling your home. They can assist you in finding the right solution for your needs.

Convenience

In addition to energy efficiency and comfort, central air conditioning systems also provide lots of convenience. They can cool an entire home or office in just one unit and don’t require ducts as window units do. They also typically come with high-quality air filters that can help keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those suffering from respiratory issues 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 thermostats that are zoned for home use that let you regulate the cooling requirements of different rooms in your house.

This is the most commonly used kind of AC system that operates in a similar way to furnaces. Central air conditioners have a large outdoor unit that blasts warm air, and a smaller indoor unit that pulls hot or cold air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through the lines that connect to the air handler and absorbs heat in the process. The cooled air is pumped back into the air handler before being is circulated to other rooms via the ductwork.

An added benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it can aid in reducing humidity. This is especially crucial in our humid climate. The air handler will take excess moisture from your ductwork and then release it to the outside. This helps to prevent mold and mildew from growing.

If your cooling system is nearing 15 years in age, it’s time to think about replacing it with a brand new and more efficient model. A new, high-end AC system can help you save money on energy bills as well as safeguard the integrity of your ductwork. To find out more about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, please contact us. We can assist you in selecting the best air conditioner for your budget and requirements.

Maintenance

Just like every major appliance, your air conditioner needs regular maintenance to run smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be performed by the homeowner, while other tasks should be left to certified experts. The best way to avoid getting caught up of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance contract which usually includes discounts on repairs and perks like priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A dirty condenser unit will hinder air flow, decrease system efficiency and drive up energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, switch off the compressor unit to avoid dirt and debris from building up. Then with a garden hose, gently clean the fan blades and coil fins to remove dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris. After washing, wipe the blades with a paper towel and spray for sanitation. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins that may 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 line sets, as well as the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil and the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines carry refrigerant and any cracks or rust may cause leaks, which can cause poor cooling and high utility bills.

Air Filter

Replace your air filter on a regular basis to ensure that it is clean and improve the performance of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter depends on how often you run the AC and how many pets are living in your home and how much dust gets accumulated. A typical air filter will last for about two weeks to a month in the cooling season.

Condensate Drain Line

If the drain line for condensation is blocked by mold, algae, snails, or bugs it won’t be able to flush out the water that’s collected by your evaporator unit during cooling. This could result in flooding of your home, water damage and the growth of mildew and mold. The float switch near your indoor coil will shut down the system when it detects a blocked drain line.