How to Save Money With a Central Air Conditioning System
Central air conditioning systems are able to cool large areas and rooms at the same time. They push cooled air through ductwork to a home, reaching up to 21 SEER.
The system pulls air from various rooms within the house via return air ducts and filters it, removing lint dust, pet dander, and microscopic contaminants. The system then delivers the cleaned air back to the rooms.
Cost
The cost of air conditioning could vary greatly depending on the size of the home, the model you select, and its efficiency. The best way to determine what your exact costs will be is to work with a trusted air conditioning expert. They will be able to determine what size unit is needed and how much ductwork is required, among other factors.
The main consideration is whether you’d prefer a split system or a packaged unit. A split system includes components spread across a few different locations, while a packaged unit has all of its parts in one outdoor unit. The former will typically cost less than the latter, however you must be aware that split systems may experience issues such as water leakage out of the unit or odd sounds coming from it. These problems are usually caused by blocked drainage lines or a need to recharge refrigerant.
The SEER rating is a different aspect to take into consideration when buying a new central air conditioner. The more the SEER, the more efficient the system will be. This can lower your energy bills over time. If you’re thinking of upgrading to a more efficient unit, speak to an installer to find out what you could save.
You should also be aware of the fact that the cost of installation is determined by the materials and labor. If you’re hiring a professional to install your central AC system that requires ductwork installation, know that this will cost more than a system without ductwork. In addition, the price of an air conditioner could vary from year-to-year due to inflation and changes in energy efficiency standards. It is best to purchase a unit in the off-season or low season. This could save you thousands of dollars on a new system.
Efficiency
When looking for an air conditioner, you need to look at the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating. The SEER rating is based on the cooling capacity of a unit AC in a typical summer by the total electric energy input for the same time. The greater the SEER, the more efficient the air conditioning system will be. The newer models are more efficient, but the savings will vary based on your climate and size of your house.
A more modern central air conditioning system could have an SEER rating of up to 21. Older air conditioners typically have a SEER of 10 or less. While it’s legal to operate older models however, their performance is likely to be diminished due to wear and wear and tear.
The latest central air conditioning systems are more energy efficient than older ductless or wall units. These are the most efficient options for homeowners and offer the most savings in terms of energy and money. They also offer features like variable speed blowers, dual heat exchangers, and sophisticated control boards.
The evaporator in an air conditioner absorbs and cools air inside your home. The condenser, housed in the outdoor unit, converts the evaporated refrigerant back into liquid by the same method that heat is transferred from a warmer to cooler substance. The condenser lets the liquid out inside the coils of the evaporator and it is cooled to its original temperature.
If your AC doesn’t work as efficiently as it used to it is recommended to replace the air filter and clean the evaporator coils frequently. Close all doors and windows to stop hot air from entering your home. This causes your AC unit to work harder to keep a comfortable temperature inside. Installing a temperature control programable system will increase the efficiency and operation of your central air conditioner. This will shut off your air conditioner when you’re away from home and switch it back on approximately 30 minutes prior to when you are expected.
Noise
Air conditioning units emit a variety noises when operating. Some are harmless, while others indicate 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 repairs by a professional or not. The most commonly heard AC sounds are rattling, hissing, banging and humming.
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 procedure can drastically reduce the amount of noise that the air conditioner creates.
Another reason that could cause hissing is a refrigerant leak. This could be hazardous, as the leak will let harmful gases get into the air. This problem can be avoided by having a professional inspect and repair the unit.
Popping and clicking sounds are usually caused by electrical problems in the compressor or thermostat. The sounds can be difficult to recognize, particularly when they are constant and loud. If these sounds occur repeatedly it’s time to call an expert.
Rattling noises are often a result of loose components or debris that has found its 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 and other components as part of your routine maintenance routine.
A rattling noise can also suggest that the fan motor is wearing out. This can be a costly issue to repair however it can be avoided by having a professional do an annual maintenance check-up.
In certain cases the humming sound could be just a sign that the compressor is running. It’s not a huge problem, but can be a nuisance for homeowners. Installing a compressor blanket can reduce the sound of the humming. A technician can assist you in deciding which one is the best option for your home. Another method of reducing the noise is to plant a bush or fence that will block the noise from entering your yard. But, before you put up any kind of fence it is suggested to test this method first by fencing a small section of your yard, and then observing how it performs.
Installation
It is important to hire an skilled professional to ensure the job is done correctly. A new air conditioner is a significant investment. Before you make a final decision, it is advisable to get multiple bids from various contractors. Search for a contractor that provides competitive rates, without compromising quality. Beware of extremely low bids which could be due to subpar materials or substandard work.
It is crucial to select the right size air conditioner for your home. A larger unit can cool your home quickly, but won’t remove the humidity as efficiently as a smaller one. Equally, a smaller unit isn’t efficient and can increase your energy costs.
The cost of central air installation is determined by a range of factors, including the type and size of the unit you choose and also the size of your home. It is recommended to have a professional come and take measurements of your house prior to installing the AC. This will help you determine how many units you will need and how long the installation process will take.
Central air systems utilize ductwork to circulate cool air throughout your home. They comprise two major components - an outdoor condenser as well as an indoor air handler. The condenser, compressor and evaporator coil are located in the outdoor unit. If you have a large house, it is recommended to select a split system that has the condenser and compressor in an outdoor unit and the air handler inside the indoor unit.
If you have ductwork in place it is possible to install central air conditioning however, it will require some adjustments before you can start the work. The ducts need to be protected with batting, spray foam or reflective wrap to prevent heat loss. Add insulation to any unused attics or crawl spaces.
Choose a model with the highest SEER rating when you are considering central air conditioning systems. This will allow you to save money and reduce your energy costs. In addition, you may be eligible for federal rebates that can help offset the cost of an efficient AC unit.