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Get Into the Back To School Spirit with Air Conditioning 101

Posted on August 11, 2021 by

Educate Yourself on the Basics of Your Air Conditioner

The school season is nearly here once again, which means it’s time to get the kids geared up and ready to go out and learn. But not all the learning has to occur at school - nor do the kids have to be the only ones learning new and fascinating things. Parents and homeowners can also benefit from a lesson or two on the systems that make their homes run smoothly. 

And there’s no better place to start than with the air conditioner! AC is a common aspect of daily life, yet most people know very little about their own AC systems. But even a basic understanding of air conditioning systems can help homeowners catch problems early, make more informed choices when it comes time to upgrade, and even improve their home’s air quality.

Different Kinds of Air Conditioners

The vast range of different air conditioner types and models on the market can be a little overwhelming. Luckily, they can generally be divided into two categories - central and ductless. Both operate by the same principles and have many of the same basic components: evaporator coils, condenser coils, refrigerant lines, blower fans, and a compressor.

They do have key differences, however. Central AC systems use one central blower unit to cool the air and distribute it throughout the home. In contrast, ductless systems typically feature multiple units that cool the air in individual rooms. Ductless mini-split systems have a higher initial cost but tend to be more efficient since they offer more zone control, and no energy is lost on the way through the ducts. However, if the home already has quality ductwork, a central unit is probably the most cost-effective option.

How To Tell When a Central AC Unit Needs Repairshvac

The ability to identify signs of AC trouble as early as possible is one skill every homeowner should have. Fortunately, the warnings are usually pretty hard to miss. One common symptom is an unexpected rise in utility costs, which often indicates that the unit is struggling to keep up due to a malfunction of some kind - or possibly just a dirt-clogged air filter!
Here are a few other common signs an AC may need repairing:

  • The unit is running, but there’s no air, weak airflow, or warm air coming from the vents
  • The unit is leaking water
  • The unit is emitting a strange smell
  • The unit is making unusual noises such as screeching, clanging, or rattling
  • The unit runs constantly or turns on and off frequently

air quality The Importance of Indoor Air Quality

A home’s air conditioning system also plays a crucial role in indoor air quality. Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the presence (or lack) of airborne pollutants in a given indoor space - the more pollutants are present, the poorer the IAQ. HVAC systems help improve IAQ by capturing pollutants in the air filter, keeping humidity levels down, and providing ventilation.

This is a vital task since poor indoor air quality can pose a serious threat to the health and safety of everyone in the home. Depending on the pollutants and their concentration, the effects of exposure can range from unpleasant to deadly. A well-functioning AC with a clean filter will help manage IAQ levels. Still, many homeowners also opt to take additional steps to protect against dangerous pollutants, such as installing air purifiers, dehumidifiers, and having their homes professionally inspected for vulnerabilities and potential sources of contamination.

About All Services

The friendly folks at All Services have been serving Crown Point, IN with pride for over 15 years. Their courteous, licensed, and insured technicians always show up on time in a fully-stocked truck, ready to handle any job safely, efficiently, and according to the latest codes. All Services offers up-front pricing, tailor-made solutions, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call now for AC services!

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