How Does Central Air Conditioning Work?

An air conditioner installed with its panel cover off.

When the Texas heat hits, a reliable central air conditioning system is essential for staying comfortable in your home. At Radiant Plumbing & Air Conditioning, we understand the importance of a well-functioning AC unit, especially during the scorching summers in the Austin and San Antonio area. In this article, we’ll explore how central air conditioning works and what you can do to ensure your system runs efficiently.

The Basics of Central Air Conditioning

A central air conditioning system consists of two main components: an outdoor unit, which contains the compressor and condenser, and an indoor unit, which includes the evaporator coil and air handler. These units work together to remove heat and humidity from your home, leaving you with cool, comfortable air.

The process begins when the thermostat signals the need for cooling. The indoor unit draws in warm air from your home, which passes over the cold evaporator coil. The refrigerant in the coil absorbs the heat, cooling the air. The cooled air is then distributed back into your home through a system of ducts.

Meanwhile, the outdoor unit releases the absorbed heat outside, and the process continues until your home reaches the desired temperature set on the thermostat.

Maintaining Your Central Air Conditioning System

To ensure your central AC system operates at peak efficiency, regular maintenance is crucial. Radiant offers comprehensive AC maintenance services to keep your unit running smoothly. Our skilled technicians will clean the coils, check the refrigerant levels, inspect the electrical connections, and more.

In addition to professional maintenance, there are steps you can take to optimize your system’s performance:

  1. Change your air filters regularly, as recommended by the manufacturer
  2. Keep the area around your outdoor unit clear of debris and vegetation
  3. Ensure your thermostat is set to a reasonable temperature
  4. Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for better control and energy savings

When to Call a Professional

If you notice any issues with your central air conditioning system, such as strange noises, uneven cooling, or poor air flow, it’s time to call in the experts. Radiant’s team of certified HVAC technicians is available 24/7 to handle any AC repair needs in Austin and San Antonio.

Don’t wait until a minor issue becomes a major problem. Contact Radiant at [email protected] or call us at (512) 265-6994 for Austin or (210) 294-6703 for San Antonio to schedule your AC repair or maintenance service today.

Upgrading Your Central Air Conditioning System

If your central AC unit is more than 10-15 years old, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Newer, energy-efficient models can save you money on your utility bills while providing better cooling performance. Radiant offers a wide range of AC installation options, including traditional central air systems and innovative ductless mini-split systems.

Our experienced team will help you choose the best system for your home and budget, ensuring you have a reliable and efficient cooling solution for years to come.

Trust Radiant for Your Central Air Conditioning Needs

At Radiant, we’re committed to providing top-notch HVAC services to homeowners in Austin and San Antonio. With our expertise, 24/7 availability, and dedication to customer satisfaction, you can trust us to keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long. Call Radiant today to schedule your AC service and experience the difference our team can make.

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