How to Save Money With a Central Air Conditioning System
Central air conditioning systems are capable of cooling large areas and multiple rooms at a time. They force cooled air through ductwork into homes and can reach up to 21 SEER.
The system pulls air from different rooms of the house through return air ducts and filters it, taking out lint, dust, pet dander, and microscopic contaminants. It then sends the cleaned air back to those rooms.
Cost
Depending on the size of your house and the type of unit you select and the degree of energy efficiency it can cost significantly. The most effective way to determine what your exact costs will be is to consult with a trusted air conditioning expert. They will be able to estimate the size of the unit as well as the amount of ductwork needed.
The choice between a package unit or split system is an important factor. A packaged unit is comprised of all the parts in one unit, whereas a split system has its components in two different places. Split systems are typically less expensive than packaged units, however they may have issues such as water leaking out of the unit or unusual noises coming from it. These issues are typically caused by drain lines that are blocked or the need for a recharge of refrigerant.
The SEER rating is a different aspect to take into consideration when buying a new central air conditioner. 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, contact an installer to learn how much you can save.
It is important to know that installation costs are dependent on both labor and materials. For instance, if you’re having an expert install your new central AC system that requires the installation of ductwork, you must be aware that it will cost more than a replacement unit without ducts. Finally, the cost of a new air conditioner can change from year to year due to the rate of inflation and changes in energy efficiency standards. This is why it is recommended to shop for a unit in the off or low season. This could save you thousands of dollars on a new system.
Efficiency
When you are buying an air conditioner, it is important to consider the seasonal efficiency ratio (SEER). The SEER rating is based on the cooling capacity of an AC during a normal summer season by the total electric energy consumed during the same period. The higher the SEER rating the more efficient the air conditioning system is. Newer air conditioners are generally more efficient than older models, but the amount of savings will be contingent on the climate of your area and the size of your house.
A more modern central air conditioning installation may have an SEER rating of up to 21. Older air conditioners usually have an SEER rating of 10 or below. While it’s still legal to operate these older units, their performance will be drastically diminished by wear and tear.
Modern central air conditioning systems are typically more efficient than older ductless systems or wall units. They are the most efficient options for homeowners, and can provide significant savings in terms of energy and money. They also include features such as variable speed blowers and dual heat exchangers and advanced control boards.
The evaporator of an air conditioner absorbs and cools the air in your home. The condenser in the outdoor unit converts refrigerant that evaporates into a liquid using the same process as heat moves from a hotter substance to a cooler one. The condenser lets the liquid out inside the coils of the evaporator where it is then cooled back to its original temperature.
If your AC isn’t operating as effectively as it did in the past, you should clean the evaporator coils as well as replace the air filter frequently. Close all doors and windows to prevent hot air entering your home. This forces your AC system to work harder to keep a comfortable temperature inside. You can further improve the performance and efficiency of your central air conditioning system by putting in an adjustable thermostat. This will automatically shut off your air conditioner off when you’re away from your home and then switch it back on approximately 30 minutes prior to your return.
Noise
Air conditioning units make a variety of noises when they are in normal operation. Some are harmless while others could suggest something wrong with the unit. It is crucial to pay attention to these sounds to determine the source of the noise, and if it requires an expert repair or not. The most frequent AC noises are rattling banging, hissing, humming, and screeching.
Hissing sounds indicate that the system is trying to draw in more air than it is able to handle. This can be addressed by cleaning or replacing the air filter. This simple action will lessen the noise that the air conditioner emits.
A refrigerant leak can also cause hissing. This could be hazardous since the leak can let harmful gases get into the air. A professional can inspect and repair the unit to prevent this from happening.
The popping or clicking sounds are often caused by electrical issues within the thermostat or compressor. These sounds are difficult to recognize especially if they’re constant and loud. If these sounds occur repeatedly, it may be the time to consult an expert.
The rattling sounds are usually a result of loose components or debris that has made its way into the unit. This could cause components to move around, which causes the clunking sound. It is crucial to check for loose screws as well as other components in your regular maintenance routine.
A rattling sound could be an indication that the motor of the fan has worn out. This could be a costly problem to repair. However it is possible to prevent it by having a professional conduct routine maintenance checks.
In some instances it is merely an indication that the compressor is in operation. This is usually not a problem however it can be irritating for homeowners. A the sound of humming can be lowered by installing a compressor blanket. A technician can help you in deciding which option is best for your home. The planting of a fence or a shrub that block the sound from entering the yard is a different option to reduce the noise. Before erecting any kind of fence, it is recommended to test this method by fencing a small section of your yard and observing how well it works.
Installation
It is crucial to employ an skilled professional to ensure the work is done properly. A new air conditioner is a significant investment. Before deciding on a contractor it is recommended to request multiple bids from various contractors. Search for a contractor that has competitive prices without cutting corners. Beware of bids that are extremely low as they could result from subpar materials or substandard work.
It is important to choose the correct size air conditioner for your home. A large unit can cool your home quickly, but it will not remove humidity as efficiently as smaller models. Also, a unit that is too small is inefficient and will increase your energy bills.
The cost of a central AC installation depends on a number of factors such as the kind of unit you choose and the size of your home. It is recommended that you get a professional to take measurements of your house prior to installing the AC. This will allow you to determine the number of AC units you will require and how time it will take to put them in place.
Central air systems make use of ductwork to distribute cool air throughout your home. They consist of two primary components which are an outdoor condenser and an indoor air handler. The compressor and condenser are situated in the outdoor unit while the evaporator coil is inside the air handler. If you have a huge home, it’s a good idea to choose a split system that has the condenser and compressor in an outdoor unit, and the air handler inside the indoor unit.
If you already have ductwork it is possible to install a central air conditioner, but it may require some adjustments before the job can begin. Spray foam, batting or reflective wrap can be used to seal the ducts. This will prevent loss of heat. Insulate any unoccupied attics or crawl spaces.
Select a model that has the highest SEER rating if you are looking at central air conditioning systems. This will save you money over the long term and will lower your energy bills. In addition, you may qualify for federal rebates to pay for an efficient AC unit.