The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

A central air conditioning system uses ductwork to deliver cooled air to each room. Airflow is controlled by an air handler which includes a filter for capturing particles.

The unit is usually located in a small enclosure outside the home. Its noiseless operation enhances your comfort by preventing constant noise or whirr of window AC units from disturbing the peace of your home.

Energy Efficiency

While central air conditioners use more energy than wall-mounted units, today’s systems are more efficient than ones used in the past. The pollution-causing R22 refrigerant was phased out by 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are continually developing new technologies to help their systems use less energy.

Central AC systems, unlike window AC units, which are made to cool only the room within which they’re located can distribute cool air throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat tells you that the air handler needs to begin to cycle. The air handler pulls warm air from your living areas and then it is pushed through 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 a gas. The compressor then increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. As it pumps, heat is pushed away from the evaporator back into your home, where it will be cooled and distributed through the ductwork.

Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes to controlling temperatures in large spaces. They can cool rooms that are farther apart than a single AC unit, and they have better energy efficiency.

Depending on how well your home is insulated and sealed, as well as its layout, you might find that a mini-split will save you even more energy than a central air conditioner however. Mini-splits operate differently than central AC however, they are usually more efficient because they don’t rely on ductwork, which could leak and cause the system to over-work to bring your home up to the desired temperature. Talk to an HVAC specialist from your local Dallas heating company if you want to learn more about energy efficient solutions for cooling your home. They’ll be able to assist you select the most efficient solution for your particular needs.

Convenience

Central air conditioning systems aren’t only efficient and comfortable, they also provide a good amount of convenience. They can cool a whole home or office in only one unit, and do not require ducts like window units do. They are also usually equipped with top-quality air filters that can help to keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those suffering from respiratory conditions or allergies.

Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. It is ideal for homes that already have ductwork and require a reliable cooling solution. These systems are able to provide cool air to every room with just one vent. They can also be used with home zoning, which allows you to regulate your cooling requirements in various areas of your home with a smart thermostat.

This is the most common type of AC system and operates in a similar way as furnaces. Central air conditioners include an outdoor unit that blasts warm air and a smaller indoor unit that pulls hot or cold air from the ductwork. The refrigerant flows from the air handler via lines, absorbing heat. The cool air is pumped back into the air handler and is circulated to other rooms via the ductwork.

A central air conditioning system can also help reduce humidity. This is particularly important in our humid climate. The air handler can remove excess moisture from your ductwork and release it to the outside. This helps prevent mold and mildew from growing.

It’s time to upgrade your cooling system if older than 15 years. A new, top-quality AC system will help you save money on energy costs as well as safeguard the integrity of your ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can assist you in selecting the right air conditioner to meet your budget and needs.

Maintenance

Your air conditioner, just like any other major appliance requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Some routine maintenance can be done by the homeowner while other tasks should be left to qualified professionals. Signing up for a maintenance contract is the best way to stay on top of AC problems. These contracts often include discounts on repairs as well as benefits, like priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A condenser unit that is dirty can limit air flow, reduce system efficiency and drive up the cost of energy. Before you begin cleaning, shut off the compressor unit to prevent dirt and debris from building up. Then, with an outdoor hose and cloth, gently scrub the blades and fins of your fan to remove dirt leaves, twigs and twigs. After washing using a paper towel and sanitation spray to wipe and sanitize the fan blades. It’s also a good idea to straighten out any noticeable bent fins that could be caused by winds or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air cooling system has been in operation for more than 10 years, you must engage a professional to check the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil with the outdoor compressor and condenser. The lines are filled with refrigerant and any corrosion or cracks could result in 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 the frequency at which the AC is running, the number of furry members in your family, and how much dust your home collects. Generally, a standard air filter can last for around two months or two weeks during the cool season.

Condensate Drain Line

If the drain line for condensation is blocked by mold, algae, snails, or bugs the line won’t flush out the water that is collected by your evaporator unit during cooling. This can cause a flooded home, water damage and the growth of mold and mildew. To avoid this, the float switch located near the indoor evaporator will shut off the system when it senses that the drain line is blocked.