How to Save Money With a Central Air Conditioning System
Central air conditioning systems are able to cool large areas and multiple rooms at a time. They work by pushing cool air into homes through ductwork that can reach up to 21 SEER.
The system draws air from various rooms within the house via return air ducts and filters it, taking out lint, dust, pet dander, and microscopic contaminants. The filtered air is then sent back to the rooms.
Cost
The cost of air conditioning could differ greatly based on the size of your house, the model you select, as well as its energy efficiency. Consulting an air conditioning expert is the best way to estimate your exact costs. He or she will be able to estimate the size of the unit and the amount of ductwork needed.
The choice between a packaged unit or a split system is an important aspect. A split system is composed of components in a couple different locations, while an integrated unit contains all of its parts in one outdoor unit. The former will generally cost less than the latter, but you must be aware that split systems may experience problems such as water leaking from the unit or weird noises emanating from it. These problems are usually caused by clogged drainage lines or a need to recharge refrigerant.
The SEER rating is an additional aspect to consider when purchasing a new central air conditioner. The higher the SEER rating is, the more efficient the system is. This can reduce your utility bills over time. If you’re thinking about upgrading to a high efficiency unit, speak to an installer to find out how much you can save.
It is important to know that installation costs are determined by both labor and materials. If you’re hiring a professional to install your central AC system and it requires ductwork installation, know that this will cost more than a system without ductwork. Additionally, the cost of an air conditioner replacement can vary from year-to-year due to the rate of inflation and changes in energy efficiency standards. It’s best to buy an air conditioner during the off-season or low season. This can help you save thousands of dollars when you buy a new system.
Efficiency
When purchasing an air conditioner, consider the seasonal efficiency ratio (SEER). The SEER rating is calculated by the cooling output of an AC in a typical summer by the total electric energy input for the same time. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the air conditioning system will be. Newer air conditioners are typically more efficient than older models, but the amount of savings will vary on the climate of your area and the size of your house.
A modern central air conditioning installation may have a SEER rating of up to 21. Older air conditioners typically have a SEER rating of 10 or less. While it is legal to use these older models, their performance will be greatly reduced due to wear and tear.
The latest central air conditioning systems are more energy efficient than the older wall units or ductless. They are the most energy efficient options for homeowners, and can provide substantial savings in terms of money and energy. They also include features such as variable-speed blowers, dual exchange units and sophisticated control panels.
The evaporator in an air conditioner absorbs and cools the air in your home. The condenser, which is located in the outdoor unit converts the refrigerant that has evaporated back into liquid by the same process that heat moves from a warmer to cooler substance. The condenser releases the liquid into the coils of the evaporator which cools it and returned to its original state.
If your AC doesn’t work as well as it did in the past, you should replace the air filter and clean the evaporator coils regularly. You should also keep the doors and windows shut to stop hot air from entering your home, causing your air conditioner to work harder to maintain the temperature at a comfortable level. Installing a temperature control programable system will increase the efficiency and performance of your central air conditioner. This will turn your air conditioner off when you’re away from home, and then turn it back on about 30 minutes before your return.
Noise
Air conditioning units make a variety of noises in normal operation. Some are harmless and others may indicate that there is an issue with the unit. It is crucial to pay attention to these sounds to determine the cause of the noise, and if it requires a professional repair or not. Some of the most popular AC sounds include rattling banging and hissing, humming and screeching.
Hissing sounds are a sign that your system is trying to absorb more air than it can handle. In many instances, this issue can be resolved by cleaning or replacing the air filter. This simple procedure can drastically reduce the amount of noise that the air conditioner makes.
Another issue that can cause hissing is a refrigerant leak. This can be extremely dangerous because the leak could let harmful refrigerant enter the air. This issue can be avoided by having a professional examine and repair the unit.
The popping or clicking sounds are usually caused by electrical problems within the compressor or thermostat. These sounds are difficult to determine, particularly if they are consistent and loud. If you hear these sounds repeatedly then it’s time to get an expert.
The sound of rattling is usually caused by loose or rusty parts that have found their way into the unit. This can cause parts to move around, which can cause the clunking noise. It is important to check for loose screws and other parts in your regular maintenance routine.
A rattling sound could be a sign that the motor of the fan is wearing out. This can be a costly issue to fix. However it is preventable by having a professional conduct regular maintenance inspections.
In some cases the humming sound can be simply a sign that the compressor is operating. It is not usually a problem however it can be annoying for homeowners. Installing a compressor blanket can make it less the 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 way to reduce the noise. However, before erecting any type of fence, it is recommended to test this method by fencing a small section of the yard and seeing how it performs.
Installation
A new air conditioning system is an investment and it is crucial to hire an accredited professional to ensure that the work is done properly. Before making a decision, it is advisable to obtain multiple bids from various contractors. Search for a contractor that has competitive prices without sacrificing quality. Be wary of bids that are low as they could be due to poor quality materials or workmanship.
It is important to select the right size air conditioners for your home. A larger unit can cool your home quickly however it won’t eliminate the humidity as effectively as a smaller unit. Likewise, an undersized unit is inefficient and will increase your energy costs.
The cost of central air conditioning is determined by a range of factors including the model and size of the unit you select, as well as your home’s area. It is recommended that you get a professional to measure your home before installing the AC. This will help you determine how many AC units you need and how it will take to install them.
Central air systems utilize ductwork to deliver cooled air throughout your home. They are comprised of two main components - an outdoor condenser as well as 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, a split system is the best choice. The compressor, condenser, and air handler are all located in the outdoor unit.
It is possible to install central air conditioning when you already have ductwork. However, some renovations might be required prior to when the installation can begin. Spray foam, batting or reflective wraps should be used to insulate ducts. This will help prevent heat loss. Insulate any unoccupied attics or crawl spaces.
If you are thinking about a central air conditioning system, make sure to select a high-efficiency model with an excellent SEER rating. This will save you money over the long term and reduce your energy costs. Additionally, you could be eligible for federal rebates to pay for an efficient AC unit.