How to Save Money With a Central Air Conditioning System
Central air conditioning systems are able to cool large areas and multiple rooms at once. They work by pushing cool air into the home via ductwork that can reach up to 21 SEER.
The system filters air that is taken from various rooms of the home by return air ducts. They remove microscopic particles of dust, dirt, pet hair, and filt. The system then delivers the cleaned air back to those rooms.
Cost
The cost of air conditioning can vary greatly depending on the size of your house, the model you select, and its energy efficiency. The best way to determine what your specific costs will be is to talk with a trusted air conditioning expert. They can determine the size of the unit as well as the amount of ductwork required.
A big factor is whether you’d prefer a split system or a packaged unit. A packaged unit is comprised of all the parts within one unit, while a split system has its components in two locations. The former will generally cost less than the latter, however you should be aware that split systems could face issues like water leaks out of the unit or odd sounds coming from it. These problems are usually caused by drain lines that are blocked or the need to recharge of refrigerant.
Another consideration is the SEER rating of your new central air conditioning system. The higher the SEER rating the more energy efficient the system is. This can result in a reduction in your energy costs in the long run, so if you’re considering upgrading to a high-efficiency model, talk to an expert installer about the potential savings you can expect depending on your climate.
It is crucial to understand that installation costs are dependent on both labor and materials. For instance, if you’re having an expert install your new central AC system, and it requires the installation of ductwork, you should be aware that this will cost more than a replacement system 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 look for a unit in the off or low season. This could save you thousands of dollars on a brand new system.
Efficiency
When purchasing an air conditioner, it is important to consider the seasonal efficiency ratio (SEER). SEER ratings are dependent on the cooling output of an AC unit during a normal summer season divided by its total electric energy input during the same time. The higher the SEER rating the more efficient the air conditioning system is. The newer models are more efficient, but the savings will vary based on your climate and size of your home.
A newer central air conditioning installation may have an SEER rating of up to 21. Older air conditioners typically have a SEER rating of 10 or below. Although it is still legal to use older units, the performance will be drastically diminished due to wear and tear.
Newer central air conditioning installations are typically more efficient than older ductless systems and wall units. These are the most efficient choices for home owners and provide the most savings in terms of energy and money. They also offer features like variable speed blowers as well as dual heat exchangers and advanced control boards.
The evaporator in an air conditioner is what absorbs and cools air inside your home. The condenser, which is located in the outdoor unit converts the evaporated refrigerant back into a liquid using the same process as heat moves from a warmer to a cooler substance. The condenser releases the liquid into the coils inside the evaporator where it is cooled and returned to its original state.
If your air conditioner doesn’t perform as well as it used to 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 causes your AC unit to work harder in order to keep a comfortable temperature inside. Installing a temperature control programable system will improve the efficiency and operation of your central air conditioner. This will turn your air conditioning off when you’re away from home, and then return it to normal operation about 30 minutes prior to your return.
Noise
Air conditioning units make different sounds in normal operation. Some are harmless, while some suggest that something is wrong with the unit. It is crucial to pay attention to these sounds to identify the source of the noise, and if it is a need for an expert repair or not. The most commonly heard AC sounds include rattling and hissing, banging and humming.
Hissing sounds are a sign that the system is trying to draw in more air than it can handle. In many instances, this issue can be resolved by cleaning or replacing the air filter. This simple action will lessen the amount of noise that the air conditioner makes.
A refrigerant leak can also cause the sound of hissing. This can be extremely dangerous because the leak could let harmful refrigerant into the air. A professional can inspect and repair your unit to prevent this from happening.
The popping and clicking sounds are typically caused by electrical problems with the thermostat or compressor. These sounds can be hard to recognize, particularly if they are consistent and loud. If the sounds are repeated it’s time to call a professional.
Rattling sounds are often caused by loose or rusty parts that have found their way into the unit. This can cause the unit to shake, causing the noise of a clunking. It is important to check for loose screws as well as other components in your regular maintenance routine.
A rattling noise can also suggest that the fan motor is in danger of wearing out. This can be a costly problem to solve. However, it can be prevented by having a professional conduct routine maintenance checks.
In some cases the humming sound could be simply a sign that the compressor is in operation. It is not usually a problem, but it can be irritating for homeowners. Installing a compressor blanket can reduce the sound of humming. A technician can assist in deciding what option is right for your home. The planting of a fence or a shrub which blocks noise from entering the yard is a different option to reduce the noise. However, before erecting any type of fence, it is recommended to test this method by fencing a small area of your yard, and then observing how well it works.
Installation
It is important to hire an skilled professional to ensure the work is done properly. A new air conditioner is a significant investment. Before making a decision it is recommended to obtain multiple bids from various contractors. Find a contractor that provides competitive pricing without cutting corners. Be wary of low bids, as they could be the result of poor quality materials or workmanship.
It is important to select the correct size air conditioner for your home. An oversized unit can cool your home quickly, but it won’t remove 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 central air conditioning is determined by a variety of factors, including the type and size of the unit you choose and also the area of your home. It is recommended that you hire a professional to take measurements of your house prior to installing the AC. This will allow you to determine how many units are needed and how long the installation process will take.
Central air systems use the ductwork system to cool your home. They consist of two major components: an outdoor condenser, and an indoor air handler. The compressor and condenser are in the outdoor unit, while the evaporator coil is 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 in the indoor unit.
If you have existing ductwork, it is possible to install central air conditioners, but it may require some renovations before work can begin. Spray foam or reflective wrap can be used to seal the ducts. This will help prevent loss of heat. Insulate any unoccupied attics or crawl spaces.
If you’re considering a central air conditioning system, make sure to choose an efficient model that has an excellent SEER rating. This will save you money in the long run and reduce your energy costs. Additionally, you could be eligible for federal rebates that can help reduce the cost of an efficient AC unit.