Is central AC the right choice for your home? Before you invest in a new system, take a look at what you need to know about central air conditioning, HVAC installation, and the next steps to a comfortably cool interior space.
What Is Central Air Conditioning?
You know what an air conditioner does. It keeps your home cool—even when the weather is warm outside. But did you know that there is more than just one type of system to choose from? The most common types of residential air conditioner replacement or initial installation options include central systems, window units, and mini-split ductless models.
A central air conditioner is exactly what the name sounds like. This system has one central unit. The central control unit forces air through a series of ducts and out of vents in each room or interior space. This allows you to cool your entire home with one air conditioner. Unlike central systems, window and ductless models cool individual rooms, areas, or zones.
Can You Install Central AC In Your Home?
Residential air conditioner replacements are complex processes. To make the most of your AC upgrade, you need the right type of product for your home. Again, central air conditioners rely on a series of ducts to supply each space with cool air. What happens if your home doesn't already have existing ductwork?
Many homes are duct-free. These homes typically have radiators or similar hot water/steam heaters. Radiator-and-boiler systems don't need ducts to supply heat to a home. This means they won't have the equipment necessary to use a central air conditioner. If your home doesn't have ductwork, it is still possible to choose and install central AC.
How Can You Install Central Air Conditioning?
Homeowners should never attempt a do-it-yourself central system installation. HVAC installation requires the knowledge of an experienced professional from start to finish. The first step is choosing the right size air conditioner. Even though it may seem like a larger capacity model would cool your home faster or more efficiently, the opposite is often true.
An overly-large AC system (for the size of your home and your cooling needs) may cycle on and off repetitively. This leads to poor cooling and high energy bills. Leave the sizing step to a professional HVAC contractor.
Along with the size, the contractor can help you to understand what else you need in a central system. If you don't already have ductwork, the contractor will create an installation plan and explain the construction requirements. Homeowners who do have existing ductwork may need upgrades, replacements, or repairs (depending on the condition, structure, and setup of the ducts). Other components to consider when choosing and installing a new central system include the air filter, the thermostat, and vents.
What Should You Do With Your Old AC Units?
Old window or mini-split air handlers/condenser units can't go into your trash. Ask the HVAC contractor if they can dispose of the AC parts properly.
Contact an HVAC service, such as Steve Patrick Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Inc., to learn more.
Share2 August 2022
I know it can be difficult to make yourself think about getting your furnace running when the skies are sunny and the temperatures are hovering around 90, but it is the best time for you to think about your heating system. Getting ahead of the winter preparation game will help to save on the cost of the repairs because the need for furnace maintenance is usually at a low during the fall season. This blog will show you what you can do to prepare your furnace for winter and when you should hire a professional HVAC technician to take care of it for you.