How to Save Money With a Central Air Conditioning System
Central air conditioning systems are capable of cooling large areas and multiple rooms at a time. They push cool air through ductwork into homes and can reach up to 21 SEER.
The system pulls air from various rooms within the house through return air ducts and filters it, taking out lint, dust, pet dander, and microscopic pollutants. The filtered air is then sent back to the rooms.
Cost
Depending on the size of your house and the kind of unit you select and the degree of energy efficiency and the price can vary in a wide range. The most effective way to determine the exact cost will be is to talk with a reliable air conditioning expert. They can assist you to determine what size unit is required and the amount of ductwork required, among other factors.
The main consideration is whether you’d like a split system or a packaged unit. A packaged unit is made up of all the components in one unit, while split systems have their components in two locations. Split systems are generally less expensive than packaged units, however they may face issues like water leaking from the unit or strange sounds coming from it. These problems are usually caused by clogged drain lines or the need to recharge of refrigerant.
The SEER rating is a different factor to consider when purchasing a new central air conditioner. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system is. This can result in a reduction in your utility bills in the long run, so if you’re considering upgrading to a more efficient unit consult with an expert installer about the potential savings you may face in your particular climate.
It is crucial to understand that the costs for installation are based both on the labor and the materials. For example, if you’re having an expert install your new central AC system that requires the installation of ductwork you must be aware that this will cost more than a replacement unit without ducts. The cost of a new AC unit can vary each year because of inflation and changes to energy efficiency standards. For this reason, it is recommended to shop for a unit during the off / low season. This can save you thousands of dollars when purchasing an entirely new system.
Efficiency
When looking for an air conditioner, you need to look at the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating. The SEER rating is calculated by the cooling output of an AC during a normal summer by the total electrical energy consumed during the same period. The greater the SEER, the more efficient an air conditioning system will be. The latest models are more efficient, but the savings will differ based on your climate and size of your house.
A central air conditioning system that is older could have a rating of SEER from 10 to 21. Older air conditioners typically have a SEER rating of 10 or below. Although it’s still legal to operate these older units, their performance is likely to be diminished by wear and tear.
Newer central air conditioning installations are typically more efficient than older ductless systems and wall units. These are the most energy-efficient options for homeowners, and offer significant savings in terms of energy and money. They also come with features such as variable-speed blowers, dual exchange units and advanced control panels.
The evaporator in an air conditioner absorbs and cools the air in your home. The condenser, located in the outdoor unit converts the refrigerant that has evaporated back into a liquid using the same process that heat moves from a warmer to a cooler substance. The condenser lets the liquid out within the coils of the evaporator where it is cooled to its original temperature.
If your air conditioner isn’t working as effectively as it did in the past then you should clean the evaporator coils and change the air filter frequently. It is also important to keep your windows and doors shut to stop the infiltration of hot air into your home, which forces your air conditioner to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. You can further improve the efficiency and operation of your central air conditioning system by putting in a programmable thermostat. This will automatically shut off your air conditioning off when you’re away from your home and then return it to normal operation about 30 minutes before your return.
Noise
Air conditioning units make a variety of sounds when they are in normal operation. Some of them are harmless, while others could suggest something wrong with the unit. The sounds you hear will aid in determining if the unit is in need of professional attention for repair. The most commonly heard AC sounds include rattling and banging, hissing and humming.
Hissing sounds indicate that your system is trying too hard to draw in more air than it can handle. This can be solved by cleaning or replacing the air filter. This simple action will lessen the amount of noise that the air conditioner makes.
A leak in refrigerant can cause the air to hiss. This is extremely risky because the leak could allow harmful refrigerant to enter the air. This issue can be avoided by having a professional look over and repair the unit.
Popping or clicking sounds are usually caused by electrical issues within the thermostat or compressor. The sounds can be difficult to determine, particularly when they are frequent and loud. If you hear these sounds repeatedly, it’s time to contact an expert.
Rattling sounds are usually the result of loose parts or debris that has made its way into the unit. This can cause parts to move around, causing the clunking noise. As part of your regular maintenance, it’s important to check loose screws and other parts.
A rattling sound could suggest that the fan motor is in danger of wearing out. This can be an expensive problem to fix however it can be avoided by having a professional perform a routine maintenance check-up.
In some instances it can be a sign that the compressor is operating. This is typically not an issue, but it can be irritating for homeowners. Installing a blanket for the compressor can reduce the sound of humming. A technician can assist in deciding which one is the best one for your home. The planting of a fence or a shrub which blocks noise from entering the yard is a different method to cut down on noise. It is recommended to test this method first by fencing the area of your yard, and then observing if it works.
Installation
A new air conditioning system is an investment, and it is crucial to hire an authorized professional to ensure the work is done properly. It is also recommended to get multiple bids from different contractors before making an ultimate decision. Find a contractor who offers competitive prices, without sacrificing quality. Be wary of low bids as they could be the result substandard materials or workmanship.
It is essential to choose the right size air conditioners for your home. A larger unit will cool down your home in a short time however it won’t eliminate the humidity as effectively as a smaller one. Likewise, an undersized unit is inefficient and will increase your energy costs.
The cost of central air installation is determined by a variety of factors, including the type and size of the unit you choose and also the size of your home. It is recommended to have a professional come and take measurements of your house prior to installing the AC. This will help you figure out how many units are needed and how long the installation process will take.
Central air systems rely on ductwork in order to cool your home. They consist of two primary components which are an outdoor condenser and an indoor air handler. The compressor and condenser are in the outdoor unit while the evaporator coil is located inside the air handler. If you have a large home, it’s recommended to select a split system, which has the condenser and compressor in an outdoor unit, and the air handler in the indoor unit.
It is possible to install central air conditioning in the event that you already have ductwork. However, some renovations may be required before the installation can begin. The ducts must be lined with spray foam, batting, or reflective wrap to prevent loss of heat. It is also a good idea to add insulation to any un-used vents in crawl spaces or attics.
If you’re considering a central air conditioning system, be sure to choose an efficient model that has a high SEER rating. This will save you money over the long term and reduce your energy costs. You could also qualify for federal rebates which will offset the cost of an energy-efficient AC unit.