Central Air Conditioning
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Despite the high initial cost, homeowners are drawn to central air conditioning systems because they can cool the entire home—not just one room. Central systems are also a great selling point for future homebuyers. If you think this air conditioning unit is right for your home, here is some more information to get started.
Costs
If your home already has the proper ductwork in place, you can expect to pay between $3,500 and $4,000 to install a central air conditioning system in a 2,000-square-foot house. However, without the proper ductwork, the cost can double to about $7,000-$8,000. Get in touch with a licensed HVAC contractor for more system and installation costs.
Pros
Central air conditioning systems are able to cool the entire home, not just one room like other systems.
They can filter and dehumidify the air, making it the better choice for people with asthma or allergies.
Central air conditioning systems are far less noisy than other units and systems.
Cons
Central air conditioning systems are the most expensive to install.
They also have a high up-front cost.
Central systems cannot be relocated like other air conditioning units.
Durability
While certainly more complicated to install, central air conditioning systems are expected to last at least slightly longer than a window air conditioning unit, with an average life expectancy of 15 years. This requires, of course, that you regularly clean and maintain the unit and its filters. Always call a professional at the first sign of a problem.
Maintenance
If a central air conditioning system fails to operate, chances are it hasn’t been maintained properly. To avoid costly repairs, it’s essential to clean and replace the filter regularly (at least once a month).
Also, vacuum out the interior of the unit to get rid of dust and debris, lubricate the bears on the fan motor and centrifugal fan unit, and regularly ensure that all electrical connections are working correctly. Lastly, clean the condenser coils by spraying them with a hose.
Common Questions and Answers
What is a SEER rating and how should it be used to pick a central air conditioning system?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and is used to determine exactly that—how energy efficient an air conditioning unit is. There are rules and regulations in place against selling a unit with a rating lower than 10, so most units on the market have a rating between 13 and 20. The higher the rating, the more energy efficient the unit, so keep that in mind during the purchasing process.
What else should be considered when buying a central air conditioning unit?
There are two important things to pay attention to: the size of the unit and the duct placement. While larger units may have better cooling capabilities, they can also remove the moisture from a room, making it important to have a humidifier. Also, multiple duct placements work better than one singular duct because they are better at circulating the air.
History
Central air conditioning systems first came onto the market in 1931, when Frigidaire released its “Hot-Kold” year-round central air conditioning system. The demand grew slowly until the 1960’s, when lower costs made it a viable option for homeowners across the country.
References
Articles related to Central Air Conditioning
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