The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

Central air conditioning makes use of ductwork to deliver cool air to every room. A air handler equipped with an air filter that collects particles regulates the airflow.

The unit is typically located in an enclosure that is located outside of the house. Its quiet operation improves your comfort by preventing the constant sound or whir of window AC units from disrupting the peace of your home.

Energy Efficiency

Although it is true that central air conditioners use more energy to run than wall-mounted units however, the reality is that today’s systems are much more efficient than those in the past. The ozone-depleting refrigerant R22 was phased out in 2006 and was replaced with an environmentally friendly product called 410A, and manufacturers are constantly developing new technologies that aid in the reduction of energy.

Contrary to window AC units, which are designed to cool just the room they’re mounted in, central AC systems are able to evenly distribute cool air throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat signalizes the air handler to start the process of cycling. The air handler pulls warm air from your living spaces, and it passes over the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes refrigerant to absorb energy before it transforms into a gas. The refrigerant then gets pumped to the outdoor unit and the compressor increases its temperature and pressure. When it pumps, it pushes the heat off of the evaporator coil, and then back into the home to be cooled and distributed through your ductwork again.

Central AC systems are the most efficient when it comes to controlling temperatures in large spaces. They can consistently cool rooms that are further away than a single wall AC unit could and provide greater energy efficiency overall.

Depending on how well your house is insulated and sealed, as well as its layout, you might find that a mini-split can save you even more energy than a central air conditioner however. Mini-splits are not the same as central ACs, however they are more efficient since they don’t require ductwork. Ductwork leaks can cause the system to overwork to cool your home to the desired temperature. If you’re interested in learning more about energy-efficient options to cool your home, speak to an HVAC professional at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They can help you find the right solution for your needs.

Convenience

In addition to comfort and energy efficiency central air conditioning systems offer a lot of convenience. They can cool an entire home or office in just one unit and do not require ducts like window units do. They’re also generally equipped with high-quality air filters that can help keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is particularly helpful for those suffering from allergies or respiratory ailments.

Central AC is one of the most well-known types of cooling systems, and for good reason. This is a great option for homes with ductwork that require an effective cooling solution. These systems can deliver cool air to each room through a single vent. They can also be used with home zoning, which allows you to control your cooling needs in different areas of the home using the help of a smart thermostat.

This is the most popular kind of AC system and operates in a similar way similar to furnaces. Central air conditioners have an outdoor unit that blasts warm air, and a smaller indoor unit that pulls cold or hot air out of the ductwork. The refrigerant is circulated through the lines of the air handler, and it absorbs heat in the process. The cooled air then is pushed back into the air handler, and then it is then 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 to prevent mold and mildew from growing.

It’s time to replace your cooling system if older than 15 years. A new, high-quality AC system will save you money on energy costs and also help ensure the integrity of your home’s ductwork. Contact Chancey & Reynolds to learn more about our cooling solutions. We can assist you in choosing the right air conditioner for your budget and needs.

Maintenance

As with every major appliance, your air conditioner needs regular service to keep running smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be performed by the homeowner, while other chores should be handled by licensed professionals. Signing an agreement for maintenance is the best method to keep on the forefront of AC issues. These agreements typically include discounts on repairs and other benefits, like priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A condenser unit that is dirty can limit air flow, reduce the efficiency of the system and increase energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, turn off your compressor unit to avoid dirt and debris from accumulating. Then using a garden hose, gently clean the coil fins and fan blades to get rid of dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris. After cleaning the blades, wipe them clean using a paper towel and a sanitation spray. It is also an excellent idea to straighten out any noticeable bent fins that could be caused by the wind or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air conditioner is over 10 years old, you must have a professional inspect the lines, the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil and the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are filled with refrigerant and any cracks or corrosion can result in leaks, which could result in a decrease in cooling and more expensive costs for utility.

Air Filter

To improve the performance of your AC system, you should change your air filter on a regular basis. The frequency of changing your air filter is contingent on how often you run the AC, how many pets reside living in your home and the amount of dust gets accumulated. A typical air filter lasts for approximately two months or two weeks during the cool season.

Condensate Drain Line

If the drain line for your condensation gets blocked by algae, mold, or bugs, the water that collects on the evaporator coil will not be able to be flushed away. This can result in flooding of your basement, water damage in your home, as well as mold and mildew growth. The float switch on your indoor coil will shut down the system if it detects a blockage in the drain line.