The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

Central air conditioning systems utilize the ductwork system to distribute cooled air throughout the rooms. Airflow is controlled by an air handler that includes a filter for capturing particles.

The unit is usually housed in a small enclosure outside the home. Its quiet operation improves your comfort by preventing constant hum or whir of window AC units from disrupting your the peace of your home.

Energy Efficiency

Central air conditioners consume more energy than wall-mounted units, today’s systems are more efficient than ones of the past. The ozone-depleting R22 refrigerant was eliminated in 2006 and replaced with 410A. Manufacturers are also continuously developing new technologies to aid in the use of less energy.

Contrary to window AC units, which are designed to cool just the area they’re installed in, central AC systems can 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 draws warm air from your living areas and then it is pushed through the evaporator coil which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat that is released into the air causes refrigerant to absorb energy and transform into gas. This refrigerant is then pumped to the outdoor unit which is where the compressor raises its temperature and pressure. When it pumps, it pushes the heat away from the evaporator coil back into the house to be cooled and distributed throughout your ductwork.

The fact is that central AC systems are the most efficient choice when it comes to regulating the temperature of large spaces. They are able to consistently cool rooms that are farther apart than one wall AC unit can and provide greater energy efficiency overall.

You might find that based on how well sealed and insulated your home is and the layout, a mini-split conditioner will save you more energy than central air conditioning. Mini-splits are different from central ACs, however they can be more efficient because they don’t require the ductwork. Ductwork leaks and can cause the system overwork in order 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 expert at your local Dallas heating and air conditioning company. They can assist you in finding the right solution for your needs.

Convenience

In addition to comfort and energy efficiency central air conditioning systems provide lots of convenience. These systems are able to cool an entire home or office using just one unit, and don’t require ducts as window units do. They also come with high-quality filters that keep pollutants and allergens out of the air. This is especially helpful for individuals who suffer from allergies or respiratory issues.

Central AC is a popular cooling system, and for good reason. It’s ideal for homes with ductwork and require a reliable cooling solution. These systems can cool all rooms by a single vent. They can also be paired with home zoned thermostats that let you control the cooling needs of different rooms in your house.

This is the most popular kind of AC system that operates similarly as a furnace. A central air conditioner has a big outdoor unit that blows warm air, and an indoor air handler that draws in hot or cold air through the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped from the air handler through lines, which absorb heat. The cooled air is then returned to the air handler inside the home and circulated via the ductwork into other rooms.

A central air conditioning system can also help reduce humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler can eliminate excess moisture and then release it outside which prevents the development of mold and mildew in your ductwork.

If your current cooling system is nearing 15 years in age it’s time to consider replacing it with a fresh and more efficient model. A new, high-end AC system will help you reduce your energy bills as well as protect the integrity of your ductwork. To learn more about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, please contact us. We can help you choose the perfect air conditioner for your budget and needs.

Maintenance

As with any other major appliance the air conditioner also requires regular service to keep running smoothly. Some routine maintenance tasks can be handled by the homeowner, while others are best left to certified experts. The best way to stay ahead of AC issues is to sign up for a maintenance contract, which often comes with discounts on repairs as well as perks like priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A dirty condenser will reduce air flow, reduce the efficiency of your system and increase energy costs. Before you begin cleaning, shut off your compressor unit to avoid dirt and debris from building up. Then, using a garden hose, gently clean the fan blades and coil fins to remove dirt, twigs, leaves, and other debris. After washing, use 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 winds or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air conditioner is over 10 years old, it is recommended to have a professional inspect the line sets, as well as the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil with the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines are a conduit for refrigerant and any cracks or rust may cause leaks that can result in inadequate cooling and expensive utility bills.

Air Filter

To improve the performance of your AC system, change your air filter regularly. The frequency varies depending on how often the AC is running, the number of furry family members, and the amount of dust your home collects. Generally, a standard air filter will last for approximately two months or two weeks during the cooling season.

Condensate Drain Line

If the line that drains condensation is clogged with algae, mold or snails it won’t be able to flush out the water that’s collected by your evaporator coil during cooling. This can result in flooding of your basement, water damage in your home, and mold and mildew growth. In order to prevent this the float switch near your indoor evaporator coil will stop the system when it detects that the drain line is clogged.