Looking at Central Air Conditioning

On a hot, sweltering summer day most people are more concerned with what an air conditioner can do as opposed to understanding the concept behind its operation. Central air conditioning is a modern day solution to controlling heat and humidity. Operating via a system of ducts that dispense cool and dehumidified air to many areas of a home or office, contemporary air conditioners are capable of climate control in both summer and winter.

What type of Air Conditioning Unit is best for me?

Depending on one's budget and the size of area to be cooled/heated there is an air conditioning unit that can fulfill your needs. The most popular is referred to as a split system air conditioner. This type of air conditioner is made up of various interconnected components and is designed so that the duct-system air handler is installed inside the home while the condenser remains outside in order to aid in noise reduction. The two components are electrically connected with refrigeration piping which circulates the chemical refrigerant from one unit to the other.

The other type of air conditioning unit is designed with basically the same components as the split system, except for the duct system, and is combined all in one cabinet. Installed outside, the packaged air conditioner has a duct system which is installed through an outside wall or on the roof in order to circulate the conditioned air.
Either unit is designed to work well under specific conditions; however, because of its versatility, compactness and capacity the split system is usually used in residential environments while the packaged units tend to be popular and effective for commercial applications.

What else should I know about air conditioners?
Air conditioning units are traditionally rated in BTU's, (British thermal unit), which is the standard unit for measuring a quantity of thermal energy. One BTU is the quantity of thermal energy needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit. One ton of air conditioning equals 12000 BTU's/hr. Other than portable or window air conditioning units, capacity increases by half ton increments.

Air conditioning units have proven to be beneficial in providing safe, clean, hypoallergenic environments and have become the mainstay for most people who experience hot, humid climate conditions.
Their ability to provide clean, climate controlled air is the main reason critical areas such as hospitals and other areas where controlled air flow is essential rely heavily on the atmosphere controlling features of a good air conditioning unit.
Regular maintenance such as filter cleaning and replacement can increase the life span of your air conditioner while enhancing its overall efficiency. This, of course, leads to a reduction in service calls which, in turn, contributes to reducing the overall operating costs.

Paul is a regular contributor to Air Conditioner Reviews an informational website for Air Conditioning ratings and reviews on several brand-names and different types including portable , central and Frigidaire Air Conditioners