The Benefits of a Central AC Unit

A central air conditioning system utilizes ductwork to bring cooled air to all rooms. Airflow is controlled by an air handler which features a filter to capture particulates.

The unit is usually located in a small enclosure located outside of the house. The unit’s quiet operation will increase your comfort as it will keep the constant hum and whirrr of window AC units from disrupting your indoor serenity.

Energy Efficiency

Although it is true that central air conditioners consume more energy to operate than wall-mounted units, the truth is that modern systems are much more efficient than the ones used in the past. The ozone-depleting refrigerant R22 was phased out in 2006 and has been replaced by an eco-friendly product called 410A Manufacturers are constantly experimenting with new technologies to aid in the reduction of energy.

Contrary to window AC units, which are specifically designed to cool the room in which they are installed, central AC systems are able to evenly distribute cool air throughout your entire home with air ducts. The cooling process starts when your thermostat signalizes the air handler to begin the process of cycling. The air handler draws warm air from your living spaces and then it is pushed through the evaporator coil, which is filled with cool refrigerant. The heat that’s in the air causes the 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 out of the evaporator coil and back into the home, where it’s cooled and circulated through the ductwork.

Central AC systems are most efficient when it comes to controlling temperature in large spaces. They are able to consistently cool rooms that are further from one another than a single wall AC unit could and provide greater energy efficiency overall.

You might find that based on how well sealed and insulated your home is, as well as the layout, a mini-split conditioner can save you more energy than central air conditioning. Mini-splits work differently than central AC however, they are usually more efficient because they do not rely on ductwork which could leak and result in the system working too hard to keep your home at the desired temperature. Talk to an HVAC expert from your local Dallas heating company if are interested in learning more about energy efficient options for cooling your house. They’ll be able to help you select the right solution for your needs.

Convenience

Central air conditioning systems aren’t only efficient and comfortable, they also provide a great variety of convenience. These systems are able to cool an entire home or office in just one unit and don’t require ducts as window units do. They’re also generally equipped with high-quality air filters which can help keep allergens and pollutants out of the air. This is especially helpful for those who suffer from respiratory issues or allergies.

Central AC is one of the most popular types of cooling systems, and with good reason. This is an excellent option for homes with ductwork that require an effective cooling solution. These systems are able to provide cool air to every room through a single vent. They can also be paired with home zone control, which allows you to manage your cooling needs in different parts of the house with a smart thermostat.

This is the most common AC system. It operates in a similar way to furnaces. Central air conditioners comprise an outdoor unit that blows out warm air, and a smaller indoor air handler that pulls in cold or hot air through the ductwork. The refrigerant is pumped out of the air handler through the lines, absorbing heat. The cooled air is then pushed back to the air handler in the home and circulated through the ductwork to other rooms.

Central air conditioning systems can also help reduce humidity. This is especially important in our humid climate. The air handler will take excess moisture from your ductwork, and release it to the outside. This will help to stop mold and mildew from growing.

If your current cooling system is approaching 15 years old it’s time to consider replacing it with a fresh and better model. A new, high-quality AC system will save you money on energy bills and help to safeguard the integrity of the ductwork in your home. For more information about Chancey & Reynolds’ cooling solutions, call us. We can help you choose the right air conditioner for your budget and needs.

Maintenance

As with any major appliance air conditioner, your air conditioner requires regular maintenance to run smoothly. Certain routine maintenance tasks can be performed by the homeowner, however, other tasks should be left to qualified experts. Signing up for a maintenance contract is the best way to be on top of AC issues. These contracts often come with discounts on repairs, as well as other perks, such as priority scheduling.

Clean the Condenser Unit

A condenser that is dirty will decrease 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 clean the coil fins and fan blades to remove dirt leaves, twigs and other debris. After cleaning, wipe the blades with a towel and spray to clean. Also, straighten any bent fins that could result from the wind or other weather conditions.

Line Sets

If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, you must have a professional inspect the line sets, as well as the copper tubes that connect the indoor air conditioning evaporator coil to the outdoor compressor and condenser unit. The lines carry refrigerant and any cracks or rust may cause leaks, which can cause poor cooling and high costs for utility.

Air Filter

To enhance the performance of your AC system, make sure you change your air filter regularly. The frequency of changing your air filter depends on how often you use the AC, how many furry family members are in the house and how much dust accumulates. A standard air filter should last between two weeks and a month in the cooling season.

Condensate Drain Line

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