How to Save Money With a Central Air Conditioning System
Central air conditioning systems are able to cool large areas and rooms at once. They push cooled air through ductwork into a house and can reach up to 21 SEER.
The system draws air from various rooms within the house through return air ducts and filters it, removing lint dust, pet dander and microscopic contaminants. The filtered air is returned to the rooms.
Cost
Depending on the size of your house and the type of unit you select and how energy efficient it is it can cost in a wide range. The best way to find out what your exact costs will be is to talk with a trusted air conditioning expert. He or she can determine the size of the unit as well as the amount of ductwork required.
The most important thing to consider is whether you’d like a split system or a packaged unit. A packaged unit consists of all the parts in one unit, whereas the split system is composed of components in two different places. The former is generally less than the latter, however you must be aware that split systems may experience problems such as water leaking from the unit or strange noises emanating from it. These problems are usually caused by blocked 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 be beneficial to your energy bills in the long term, so if you’re considering upgrading to a high-efficiency unit, talk to an experienced installer about the savings you can expect depending on your climate.
It is also important to be aware that installation costs are based on both labor and materials. If you are hiring a professional to install your central AC system and it requires ductwork installation, be aware that it will cost you more than a system with no ductwork. Additionally, the cost of an air conditioner could change from year to year due to the rate of inflation and changes in energy efficiency standards. It is best to purchase an air conditioner during the off-season or low season. This will help you save thousands of dollars when you buy 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 based on dividing the cooling output of a unit AC during a normal summer season by the total electric energy consumed during the same time. The greater the SEER rating the more efficient the system’s cooling capacity is. The newer models are more efficient, however the savings will differ based on your climate and the size of your house.
A central air conditioning system that is newer could have a rating of SEER up to 21. Older air conditioners usually have a SEER of 10 or less. Although it is still legal to use these older models, the performance will be drastically diminished because of wear and wear and tear.
The newer central air conditioning systems are more energy efficient than older wall or ductless units. These are the most efficient choices for homeowners, and they offer the greatest savings in terms of energy and money. They also have features like variable-speed blowers, dual heat exchanging units and advanced control panels.
The evaporator is the part of an air conditioner that absorbs and cools air in your home. The condenser, which is located in the outdoor unit, converts the refrigerant that has evaporated back into a liquid using the same process as heat is transferred from a warmer to a cooler substance. The condenser releases the liquid into the coils of the evaporator where it is cooled and returned to its original state.
If your air conditioner isn’t work as well as it did in the past it is recommended to replace the air filter and clean the evaporator coils frequently. Close all windows and doors to stop hot air from entering your home. This forces your AC unit to work harder to keep a comfortable temperature inside. Installing a programmable temperature control system will improve the efficiency and operation of your central air conditioner. This will automatically turn off your air conditioner when you’re away from your home, and then switch it back on approximately 30 minutes before you arrive.
Noise
Air conditioning units emit a variety of sounds when they are in normal operation. Some are harmless and others could be a sign of something wrong with the unit. By listening to these sounds, you can help you determine if the unit is in need of professional attention for repair. Some of the most popular AC sounds are rattling, banging, hissing and humming.
Hissing sounds indicate that the system is trying to draw in more air than it is able to handle. In most cases, this can be resolved by cleaning or replacing the air filter. This simple step can dramatically reduce the amount of noise that an air conditioner makes.
Another cause that can cause hissing is refrigerant leak. This can be extremely dangerous since the leak can let harmful refrigerant into the air. A professional can inspect and repair your unit to prevent this problem.
Clicking or popping sounds are often caused by electrical issues within the thermostat or compressor. These sounds can be hard to identify, especially when they are frequent and loud. If you hear these sounds repeatedly it could be the right time to call a professional.
The sound of rattling is usually caused by debris or loose parts that have made their way into the unit. This can cause the unit to move around, which can cause the creaking sound. It is important to check for loose screws as well as other components as part of your regular maintenance routine.
A rattling sound could be a sign that the motor of the fan is wearing out. This can be costly to fix. However it is possible to prevent it by having a professional conduct regular maintenance inspections.
In some cases it can be a sign that the compressor is operating. It’s not a huge issue, but it could be a nuisance for homeowners. A the sound of humming can be lowered by installing a blanket for compressors. A technician can assist you in deciding what option is the best one for your home. The planting of a fence or a shrub that blocks the noise from entering the yard is another method to cut down on noise. It is best to test this method first by fencing the area of your yard and seeing whether it works.
Installation
A new air conditioning system is an investment and it is important to hire an accredited professional to ensure that the job is done right. It is also recommended to request multiple estimates from various contractors prior to making an ultimate decision. Look for a company that offers competitive prices, without sacrificing quality. Be wary of bids that are low as they could be the result poor quality materials or workmanship.
It is important to choose the right size air conditioner for your home. An oversized unit can cool your home quickly, but it will not remove humidity as effectively as a smaller model. A unit that’s too small will also be inefficient, increasing your cost of energy.
The cost of a central air installation depends on a variety of factors that include the kind of unit you choose and the size of your home. Before installing AC, it is recommended that an expert measure your home. This will help you determine the number of AC units you need and how it will take to put them in place.
Central air systems rely on ductwork in order to cool your home. They comprise two major components namely 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 house, it’s recommended to select a split system, which has the condenser and compressor in an outdoor unit, and the air handler inside the indoor unit.
It is possible to install central air conditioning when you already have ductwork. However, some modifications may be required before installation can begin. The ducts must be lined by batting, spray foam or reflective wrap to avoid loss of heat. Insulate any unoccupied attics or crawl spaces.
Choose a system with a high rating of SEER when you are considering central air conditioning systems. This will save you money in the long run and will lower your energy bills. You may also qualify for federal rebates that will offset the cost of an energy-efficient AC unit.