How to Save Money With a Central Air Conditioning System
Central air conditioning systems are capable of cooling large areas and many rooms at once. They function by pushing cooled air into the home via ductwork that can reach up to 21 SEER.
The system draws air from various rooms in the house via return air ducts and filters it, removing lint dust, pet dander, and microscopic contaminants. It then sends the filtered air back to the rooms.
Cost
The cost of air conditioning can vary widely based on the size of your house, the model you select, as well as its efficiency. The best way to determine what your exact costs will be is to consult with a reputable air conditioning expert. He or she will be able to determine the size of the unit and the amount of ductwork needed.
The decision between a packaged unit or a split system is an important aspect. A split system includes components in a couple different locations, whereas a packaged unit has all its components in one outdoor unit. The former will typically 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 sounds emanating from it. These problems are usually caused by clogged drain lines or the need to recharge of refrigerant.
Another aspect is the SEER rating of the new central air conditioning system. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system is. This can reduce your utility bills over time. If you’re considering upgrading to a high efficiency unit, speak to an installer to find out what you could save.
You should also be aware of the fact that installation costs are determined by both labor and materials. For example, if you’re hiring a professional to install your new central AC system, and it requires the installation of ductwork, you must be aware that this will cost more than a replacement unit without ducts. Additionally, the cost of an air conditioner replacement can fluctuate from year to year due to inflation and changes in energy efficiency standards. It’s best to buy an air conditioner during the off-season, or during low season. This can save you thousands of dollars when purchasing a new system.
Efficiency
When shopping for an air conditioner, you need to consider the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating. The SEER rating is determined by dividing the cooling output of an AC during a normal summer by the total electric energy consumed during the same period. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the air conditioning system will be. Modern air conditioners are typically more efficient than older models, but the amount of savings will vary on the climate in your area and the size of your home.
A central air conditioning system that is newer could have a rating of SEER up to 21. Older air conditioners generally have a SEER rating of 10 or less. Although it’s still legal to operate these older units, their performance will be significantly diminished due to wear and tear.
The latest central air conditioning systems are more energy efficient than the older ductless or wall units. These are the most efficient options for home owners and provide the highest savings in terms of energy and money. They also come with features such as variable-speed blowers, dual heat exchanging units and advanced control panels.
The evaporator is the component of an air conditioner that absorbs and cools air in your home. The condenser of the outdoor unit converts refrigerant that evaporates into a liquid by following the same procedure as heat is transferred from a hotter substance to cooler ones. The condenser then releases the liquid into the coils in the evaporator, which cools it and returned to its original state.
If your AC doesn’t work as efficiently as it did in the past it is recommended to replace the air filter and cleanse the evaporator coils on a regular basis. Close all doors and windows to prevent hot air entering your home. This forces your AC system to work harder to keep your indoor temperature at a comfortable level. You can further improve the operation and efficiency of your central air conditioning system by putting in an adjustable thermostat. This will automatically turn your air conditioner off when you’re away from your home and then return it to normal operation about 30 minutes before you return.
Noise
Air conditioning units emit a variety sounds when they are operating normally. Some of them are harmless, while some suggest that something is wrong with the unit. It is essential to listen to these sounds to identify the source of the noise and if it requires an expert repair or not. The most commonly heard AC sounds include rattling and banging, hissing and humming.
Hissing sounds are a sign that the system is trying to draw in more air than it can handle. This can be resolved by cleaning or changing the air filter. This simple action can drastically reduce the amount of noise the air conditioner produces.
A leak in refrigerant can cause hissing. This could be hazardous because the leak could let harmful gases be released into the air. This problem can be avoided by having a professional examine and repair the unit.
Popping and clicking sounds are typically caused by internal electrical problems with the thermostat or compressor. These sounds are difficult to recognize especially if they are constant and loud. If you hear these sounds over and over again, it’s time to call in a professional.
Rattling sounds are often caused by debris or loose parts that have made their way into the unit. This can cause parts to move around, which can cause the clunking noise. As part of your routine maintenance, it is important to check loose screws and other components.
A rattling sound can indicate that the fan motor is wearing out. This could be a costly issue to address, but it is possible to avoid this by having a professional do an annual maintenance check-up.
In some instances the humming sound can be a sign that the compressor is in operation. It is not a big problem, but can be annoying to homeowners. A humming sound can be diminished by installing a compressor blanket. A technician can help you decide the best option for your home. Planting a fence or shrub that blocks the noise from entering the yard is another method to cut down on noise. It is best to test this first by fencing the area of your yard, and then observing if it works.
Installation
It is crucial to employ an experienced professional to ensure that the work is done properly. A new air conditioner is a significant investment. Before making a decision, it is advisable to obtain multiple bids from various contractors. Find a contractor that provides competitive pricing without cutting corners. However, be wary of extremely low bids as they could be the result of cut-rate materials or substandard workmanship.
It is crucial to select the right size air conditioner for your home. An oversized unit can cool your home quickly, but it won’t eliminate humidity as effectively as smaller models. Also, a unit that is too small isn’t efficient and can increase your energy bills.
The cost of a central air installation is contingent on a variety of factors that include the type of unit you purchase and the size of your home. Before installing AC, it is recommended to have an expert assess your home. This will help you determine how many units are needed and how long the installation process will take.
Central air systems utilize ductwork to cool your home. They consist of two primary components that are an outdoor condenser and an indoor air handler. The compressor and condenser are situated in the outdoor unit, while the evaporator coil is within the air handler. If you live in a big house, it is an ideal idea to opt for a split system, which has the condenser and compressor in an outdoor unit, and the air handler in the indoor unit.
If you have existing ductwork it is possible to install central air conditioning, but it may require some adjustments before you can start the work. The ducts need to be protected by batting, spray foam or reflective wrap to stop heat loss. It’s also an excellent idea to install insulation on not being used ducts in crawl spaces or attics.
If you are considering a central air conditioning system, be certain to select an efficient model that has an excellent SEER rating. This will save you money in the long run and will lower your energy bills. You may also be eligible for federal rebates that can offset the cost of an energy-efficient AC unit.