The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

A central air conditioning system uses ductwork to deliver cooled air to every room. An air handler with filters that trap particulates regulates the airflow.

The unit is usually located in an enclosure that is outside the home. The unit’s quiet operation will increase your comfort as it will keep the constant hum and whirrrr of window AC units from disrupting your indoor peace.

Energy Efficiency

While it’s true that central air conditioners use more energy to operate than a wall-mounted unit however, the reality is that modern systems are much more efficient than those used in years in the past. The ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was phased out in 2006 and replaced by 410A. Manufacturers are also continually developing new technologies to aid in the use of less energy.

In contrast to window AC units that are specifically designed to cool only the area they’re installed in, central AC systems can distribute cool air throughout your entire home using air ducts. The cooling process begins when your thermostat signals the air handler to start running. The air handler draws warm air from your living space and then passes it over the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat that is released into the air causes refrigerant absorb energy and transform into gas. The refrigerant then gets pumped to the outdoor unit and the compressor increases its temperature and pressure. As it pumps it, it carries the heat away from the evaporator coil, and then back into the home, where it’s cooled and distributed through your ductwork again.

Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes down to regulating temperatures in large spaces. They are able to continuously cool rooms that are farther apart than one wall AC unit can and provide greater energy efficiency in general.

Depending on how well your house is sealed and insulated, as well as its layout, you might find that a mini-split unit can save you even more energy than central air conditioners, though. Mini-splits function differently than central AC however, they are usually more efficient because they do not rely on ductwork which could leak and cause the system to work harder in order to cool your home to the desired temperature. Contact an HVAC professional from your local Dallas heating company if you want to learn more about energy efficient solutions for cooling your home. They can help you find the best solution for your needs.

Convenience

Central air conditioning systems aren’t only efficient and comfortable, but they also provide a great deal of convenience. They can cool your entire home or business with only one unit and don’t need ducts as window units do. They also come with high-quality filters that keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is especially beneficial for those suffering from respiratory issues or allergies.

Central AC is one of the most well-known types of cooling systems, and for good reason. It’s perfect for homes that already have ductwork and require a reliable cooling solution. These systems can cool each room with a single vent. They can also be used with thermostats that are zoned for home use, which allow you to control the cooling needs of different rooms in your home.

This is the most commonly used kind of AC system that functions in a similar way as furnaces. Central air conditioners have an outdoor unit that blasts out warm air and a smaller indoor air handler that draws in hot or cold air through the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped through the lines that connect to the air handler and absorbs heat in the process. The cool air is returned to the air handler in the home and circulated via the ductwork to other rooms.

A further benefit of a central air conditioning system is that it may help to reduce humidity. This is particularly important in our humid climate. The air handler can remove excess moisture and then let it out, which helps to prevent the growth of mold and mildew within your ductwork.

If your current cooling system is approaching 15 years old It’s time to consider replacing it with a new and improved model. A new, high-quality AC system will help you save money on energy costs and help to protect the integrity of the ductwork in your home. To learn more about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, please contact us. We can assist you in choosing the right air conditioner to meet your budget and requirements.

Maintenance

As with any other major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular service to keep running smoothly. Some routine maintenance can be done by the homeowner however, other tasks should be left to qualified experts. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance agreement which usually includes discounts on repairs as well as benefits such as priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A dirty condenser will reduce air flow, decrease the efficiency of your system and increase energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, shut off your compressor unit to avoid dirt and debris from accumulating. Then using a garden hose, gently wash the fan blades and coil fins to get rid of dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris. After washing then, use a towel and spray for sanitation to wipe and sanitize the fan blades. It is also recommended to straighten any bent fins that might have been caused by wind, or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air cooling system has been in operation for more than 10 years, it is recommended to hire a professional to inspect the line sets. These are the copper tubes that connect the indoor evaporator coil and 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 higher costs for utility.

Air Filter

Change your air filter frequently to ensure it is clean and enhance the performance of your air conditioning system. The frequency will vary based on how often the AC is running, the number of furry family members and the amount of dust is accumulated in your home. A typical air filter will last between two weeks and a month in the cooling season.

Condensate Drain Line

If the drain line for your condensation gets blocked by mold, algae or bugs, the water collected on the evaporator coil won’t be able to be flushed away. This can result in a flooded basement, water damage in your home, and even mold and mildew growth. The float switch on your indoor coil will shut off the system if it detects a blocked drain line.