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 forcing cooled air into a home through ductwork, which can be up to 21 SEER.
The system pulls air from various rooms in the house via return air ducts and filters it, removing lint dust, pet dander and microscopic pollutants. It then sends the filtered air back to those rooms.
Cost
Based on the size of your home, the type of unit you choose and how energy efficient it is and the price can vary widely. The best way to find out the exact cost will be is to work with a reliable air conditioning expert. He or she will be able to determine the size of the unit as well as the amount of ductwork that is required.
A big factor is whether you want a split system or a packaged unit. A split system is composed of components in a couple different locations, while the packaged unit houses all its components in one outdoor unit. The former will generally cost less than the latter, however you should be aware that split systems may experience issues like water leaks from the unit or weird noises emanating from it. These problems are usually caused by drainage lines that are blocked or a need to recharge refrigerant.
Another aspect is the SEER rating of your brand new central air conditioning system. The higher the SEER rating is, the more efficient the system is. This can lower your energy bills over time. If you’re thinking of upgrading to a high-efficiency unit, talk to an installer to learn what you could save.
You should also be aware that the cost of installation is dependent on both labor and materials. For instance, if you’re hiring an expert to install your new central AC system that 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 differ from year to year because of inflation and changes to energy efficiency standards. It is recommended to purchase an air conditioner during the off-season or low season. This can save you thousands of dollars when purchasing an entirely new system.
Efficiency
When shopping for an air conditioner, it is important to take into consideration the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating. SEER ratings are dependent on the cooling output of an AC unit during the normal summer season divided by the total energy consumption during the same time. The higher the SEER rating is, the more efficient the air conditioning system is. Modern air conditioners are generally more efficient than older models, but the amount of savings will vary on the climate of your area and the size of your home.
A central air conditioning system that is newer could have a rating of SEER ranging from 10 to 21. Older air conditioners usually have an SEER rating of 10 or below. While it is legal to use older models, the performance will be drastically diminished due to wear and tear.
The modern central air conditioning systems are more energy efficient than the older wall units or ductless. These are the most efficient choices for home owners and offer the highest savings in terms of energy and money. They also include features such as variable speed blowers, dual heat exchangers, and sophisticated control boards.
The evaporator is a component of an air conditioner that absorbs and cools air inside your home. The condenser inside the outdoor unit converts the evaporated refrigerant into a liquid by using the same process as heat moves from a hotter substance to cooler one. The condenser releases the liquid within the coils of the evaporator and it is then chilled back to its original temperature.
If your air conditioner isn’t work as efficiently as it did in the past and you’re not sure what to do, replace the air filter and clean the evaporator coils regularly. You should also keep your windows and doors closed to prevent hot air from entering your home, which forces your AC to be more efficient in maintaining a comfortable temperature. Installing a programmable temperature control system will increase the efficiency and performance of your central air conditioner. It will automatically shut off your air conditioner when you’re away from your home and switch it back on approximately 30 minutes prior to your arrival.
Noise
Air conditioning units produce different sounds in normal operation. Some are harmless while others could suggest an issue with the unit. The sounds you hear will help you determine if the unit is in need of professional repair. Some of the most common AC noises include rattling, banging, hissing, humming, and screeching.
Hissing noises are a sign that your system is trying too hard to take in more air than it can handle. In most cases, this can be resolved by cleaning or replacing the air filter. This simple step will reduce the amount of noise that the air conditioner makes.
Another issue that can cause hissing is a refrigerant leak. This could be hazardous, as the leak will let harmful gases enter 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 problems within the thermostat or compressor. These sounds are difficult to identify, especially when they are constant and loud. If the sounds are repeated it’s time to contact an expert.
The sound of rattling is usually caused by loose or rusty 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 routine maintenance, it’s essential to inspect loose screws and other parts.
A rattling sound could be a sign that the motor of the fan is in danger of wearing out. This could be a costly problem to solve. However it is preventable by having a professional conduct regular maintenance inspections.
In some cases, a humming noise is merely an indication that the compressor is operating. It is not usually an issue however it can be irritating for homeowners. Installing a compressor blanket could make it less the humming. A technician can help you decide the best option for your home. Another method to cut down on noise is to plant a shrub or fence that will block the sound from entering your yard. It is recommended to test this first by fencing only a small portion of your yard and observing whether 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 major investment. Before making a decision, it is advisable to request multiple bids from various contractors. Find a contractor who offers competitive prices, without sacrificing quality. Be wary of low bids as they could be due to substandard materials or poor workmanship.
It is essential to choose the correct size air conditioner for your home. A large unit will cool your home quickly, but it will not eliminate humidity as efficiently as a smaller model. Equally, a smaller unit is inefficient and will increase your energy bills.
The cost of a central AC installation depends on a variety of factors, including the type of unit you purchase and your home’s square footage. It is recommended to hire a professional to assess your home prior to installing the AC. This will allow you to determine the number of units needed and how long the installation process will take.
Central air systems rely on ductwork in order to cool your home. They consist of two major components: an outdoor condenser, and an indoor air handler. The condenser, compressor and evaporator coil are all located in the outdoor unit. If you have a large 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.
It is possible to install central air conditioning if you already have ductwork. However, some changes may be required before the installation can begin. Spray foam, batting or reflective wrap can be used to insulate ducts. This will stop heat loss. Add insulation to any unused crawl spaces or attics.
If you are thinking about a central air conditioning system, make certain to select an efficient model with a high SEER rating. This will help you save money and lower the cost of energy. Additionally, you could be eligible for federal rebates to offset the cost of an efficient AC unit.