On average, more than 90% of US homes use central air conditioner units. In fact, these units are more common in almost all US households than dishwashers and air purifiers. Most homeowners run the unit all throughout the summer season, and during those days when the temperature gets really high.
If you are planning to buy one for your new home, take a moment to learn more about central air conditioners.
What is Central Air Conditioner?
The central air conditioner is the unit that circulates cool air mainly through a central air conditioning system. This said system integrates the furnace system as well, to take advantage of the air filtering and purification for cleaner, cooler air.
What are the Parts of a Central Air Conditioner?
- Outdoor unit – it has electrical components, a condenser coil, a compressor, and a fan.
- Evaporator coil – it is installed on top of the gas furnace.
- Pipes or refrigeration lines – they connect the outdoor units with the indoor units.
- Refrigerant – it is the substance that circulates through the units.
- Ducts – they serve as the tunnels that distribute air to rooms and spaces at home.
- Thermostat – it is the control system that allows the user to set the temperature.
How a Central Air Conditioner Works?
The central air conditioner works through a system. Using electricity, the refrigerant flows to and from the indoor and outdoor units through the refrigeration lines. The motorized fan then pulls the warm air from the house into the ducts. Meanwhile, the compressor coil in the outdoor unit, and the evaporator coil in the interior unit absorb the warm air when the refrigerant is pumped, thus cooling the air. The cooled air then flows back through the ducts to the rooms. The thermostat can be set at the desired temperature, and placed on auto-mode for continuous air circulation.
What are the Types of Central Air Conditioners?
- Split Central Air Conditioners – the most common type where air is distributed to and from the indoor and outdoor units through the ducts.
- Packaged Central Air Conditioners – the type where all the parts are packed in one cabinet.
What are the Benefits/Advantages of Using Central Air Conditioners?
- More efficient than ordinary air conditioners
- Convenient to use
- Provides indoor comfort during warm weather
- Cleaner air
- Quieter operation
- Durable
How to Maintain a Central Air Conditioner?
Regular cleaning and maintenance of the central air conditioning unit extends the lifespan of the units, and prevents the need for immediate repairs and replacements. Besides, clean air helps keep your rooms comfortable and safe for the whole household. According to experts, the best time to have the central air conditioning units checked is before the summer season begins. Some easy maintenance measures you can take yourself are:
- Shutting off or unplugging the unit from the electrical source.
- Cleaning or removing debris using a dry or wet vacuum. This includes the evaporator coil and evaporator drain.
- Removing the outer cover to clean the inner part.
- Cleaning the outer part.
- Putting the cover back.
However, if you don’t think you can do these on your own, it is best to enlist a professional air conditioner cleaning service.
ECM Air Conditioning, with its headquarters located in Boynton Beach, FL, provides air conditioning services within Palm Beach County, Broward County, Martin County, and St. Lucie County. If you’re looking to have a new HVAC system installed, we’re on-call and ready to assist you. So if you’re in need of an HVAC installation, don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule an inspection! Our HVAC installation experts will check your ductwork, measure, check wire sizes, and more before making recommendations to ensure maximum efficiency and comfort. Call us at 561-295-1763 or contact our HVAC installation team online by clicking here.