Earn Extra Credit With Your AC System
The AC system is the home's heartbeat. With an increasingly hotter world, having a functioning AC system is no longer an option but more of a necessity. Understanding what type of air conditioning unit is in the home and how to maintain it will help avoid any future disruptions in comfort.
The two most common types of air conditioning units are central AC and ductless mini-split units. This article will help distinguish the two and explain how to manage them properly.
Central Air Conditioning vs Ductless Mini-Split System
A typical home usually has a central air conditioning unit or a ductless mini-split unit. Both effectively cool the entire home but vary in functionality and the ideal setting for maximum efficiency.
Ductless mini-split air conditioning systems are installed on the walls of each room where cool air is desired. They typically look like white horizontal rectangular units that sit towards the top of the wall near the ceiling. True to the name, they are ductless and require a minimally invasive installation process that can be done by simply wiring copper piping through the walls. Each unit has its controller, allowing for greater control over air disbursement, resulting in less energy usage overall.
Central AC units are the most common type of cooling unit found in homes today. They use a network of ducts to push air throughout the home and are controlled by a single thermostat. Other than vents found on the ground or ceilings, central AC units are unnoticeable, making them an aesthetically appealing option. These AC units are best for large homes and commercial buildings as they completely cool an entire space.
Sign up for the AC Repair Elective
Understanding the signs that it might be time for air conditioner maintenance is part of the core curriculum of owning an AC unit. Some examples of a faulty unit include:
- Warm air blowing from the vents
- Weak or insufficient airflow
- Unusual noises coming from the unit
- Poor humidity control
- Foul odors coming from the vents
- The unit is operating past its recommended lifespan
If any of these occurrences come from the AC unit, scheduling an HVAC visit is recommended so a professional can determine if air conditioning maintenance is required.
Don’t Forget the AC Maintenance Pre-reqs
Maintaining a healthy unit is much easier than dealing with a larger air conditioning maintenance issue in the future. A great way to start is by regularly changing the air filters. While a professional will check and change the filters during a visit, it does not require a professional skill set. A quick change of the filters in the unit will keep air flowing smoothly and prevent the unit from needing to work harder to achieve the same output.
To further minimize issues in the future, it's highly recommended that regular air conditioner maintenance visits be scheduled with an HVAC professional. During a typical visit, a professional will inspect the unit, check the coolant levels, look for signs of wear and tear, and examine the electrical aspects to ensure they align with safety standards. Scheduling regular HVAC visits will help to prevent costly and annoying air conditioning repairs down the road.
About Lascko Services
Since 1999, Lascko Services has proudly served the Muskegon, Grand Haven, and Fremont, MI areas for all their HVAC needs. Their goal is to provide exemplary results at the fairest price, and they do it all through a warm and inviting approach. Call Lascko Services to schedule an HVAC maintenance visit today!
