We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Industry

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are Central Air Conditioning Units?

Malcolm Tatum
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 12,378
Share

Central air conditioning units are air conditioning solutions that work to create a pleasant temperature and humidity level within an enclosed space. In most cases, the main unit is situated on the exterior of the building and functions with the use of ductwork. In addition to cooling the air and keeping the humidity at a tolerable level, central air conditioning usually aids in removing dust, lint, and other allergens from the interior of a home or workplace.

There are different designs or models for central air conditioning units around the world. Many designs call for the use of what is known as split air conditioning. This model involves locating the compressor and the condenser of the unit outside the interior space, such as on a slab situated near an exterior wall or on the roof of the edifice. Inside the evaporator is located in the air handler section of the unit, near the ductwork.

With a package system approach to central air conditioning, all the necessary components are contained in one simple unit that is installed on the ground just outside the building or on the roof. In both cases, the design calls for the use of ductwork to handle the collection and distribution process that helps to create the controlled interior environment.

A basic air conditioning unit of this type performs several key functions. First, air is pulled into the unit, cooled, then routed into all the rooms of the space by way of the ductwork. Along with cooling the air, many systems also include purification filters. These filters help to remove different types of allergens from the returned air, such as pet dander, dust, and other allergens. People who struggle with allergies often find that central air conditioning units offer relief that is hard to achieve otherwise.

A third function of most central air conditioning units is to regulate the humidity level within the home or workspace. Essentially, this process helps to remove excess humidity from the returned air, making the interior space more comfortable. This aspect of room air conditioning is often considered just as important as reducing the temperature of the air circulating throughout the building.

The use of central air conditioning units is more common in areas of the world where heat and humidity levels tend to reach high levels during the summer months. In areas where humidity and excessive heat are less of a problem, homeowners may prefer to utilize window mounted or portable air conditioning units that are plugged into a wall outlet and can be stored during those months when they are not in use. Because of the greater consumption of energy, there are areas of the world where the installation of central air conditioning units is either restricted or forbidden altogether.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Malcolm Tatum
By Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGeek, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing...
Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-central-air-conditioning-units.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.