The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

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

The unit is typically situated in a small enclosure outside the house. The unit’s quiet operation can enhance your comfort, since it will prevent the constant hum and whirr of window AC units from disrupting indoor serenity.

Energy Efficiency

Although it is true that central air conditioners use more energy to operate than a wall-mounted unit, the truth is that modern systems are much more efficient than those in years ago. The ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was removed in 2006 and replaced by 410A. Manufacturers are continually developing new technologies to make their systems more efficient and use less energy.

Contrary to window AC units, which are specifically designed to cool the room in which they are installed central AC systems can distribute cool air throughout your home with air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat tells you that the air handler must begin cycling. The air handler pulls warm air from your living spaces and then passes it over the evaporator coil that is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat in the air causes refrigerant absorb energy before it transforms into gas. This refrigerant is then pumped to the outdoor unit which is where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. When it pumps, the heat is pushed off the evaporator and back into your home, where it can be cooled again and distributed through the ductwork.

The reality is that central AC systems are the most efficient option when it comes to managing the temperature of large spaces. They are able to continuously cool rooms that are farther from one another than one wall AC unit can and provide greater energy efficiency in general.

Depending on how well your house is well-insulated and sealed and the layout of your home it’s possible that a mini-split unit could save you more energy than central air conditioners however. Mini-splits differ from central ACs, however they are more efficient since they don’t use ductwork. Ductwork leaks can make the system overwork in order to cool your home to the desired temperature. Talk to an HVAC expert from your local Dallas heating company if want to know more about energy efficient options for cooling your house. They can assist you in finding the best solution for your needs.

Convenience

In addition to the energy efficiency and comfort central air conditioning systems also provide a lot of convenience. They can cool the entire business or home with one unit, and do not require ducts as window units do. They are also fitted with high-quality filters that keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is especially beneficial for those suffering from respiratory or allergies.

Central AC is a popular cooling system, and with good reason. It’s ideal for homes with ductwork and want an effective cooling solution. These systems can supply cool air to every room through a single vent and can be used with home zoning, which permits you to regulate your cooling needs in different parts of the house with the help of a smart thermostat.

This is the most popular AC system. It functions similarly to furnaces. Central air conditioners comprise a big outdoor unit that blasts out warm air and a smaller indoor air handler that draws in hot or cold air from the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped out of the air handler through lines, which absorb heat. The cool air is pumped back into the air handler before being circulated to other rooms through the ductwork.

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

If your current cooling system is nearing 15 years old it’s time to consider replacing it with a new and improved model. A new, top-quality AC system will save you money on energy costs and help to safeguard 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

Like any other major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular service to keep running smoothly. Certain maintenance tasks that are routine can be performed by the homeowner, while others are best left to licensed professionals. Signing an agreement for maintenance is the best way to stay on top of AC issues. These agreements typically include discounts on repairs, as well as other benefits, like priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A condenser unit that is dirty can hinder air flow, decrease system efficiency and drive up energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, switch off the compressor unit to stop dirt and debris from building up. Then using a garden hose, gently wash the fan blades and coil fins to remove dirt leaves, twigs and other debris. After washing using a paper towel and a spray of sanitation to wipe and sanitize the fan blades. It’s also a good idea to straighten any bent fins, which may be caused by the wind or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air conditioner is over 10 years old, you should have a professional inspect the line sets, the copper tubes connecting the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are filled with refrigerant, and any cracks or corrosion can cause leaks that will result in poor cooling and more expensive costs for utility.

Air Filter

Change your air filter frequently to ensure it is clean and enhance the efficiency of your air conditioning system. The frequency of changing your air filter depends on how often you run the AC, how many pets reside in the house, and how much dust is collected. A standard air filter should last between two weeks and one month during the cooler season.

Condensate Drain Line

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