Here in the Midwest, because you never know what the weather will do, we tend to get a little superstitious about keeping our homes comfortable. And when it comes to air conditioning, myths and misconceptions abound.
As a local HVAC company dedicated to keeping our community cool and comfortable, we’re here to set the record straight. Let’s dive into the five common most common AC myths and reveal the truth…
Myth 1: Bigger is Always Better
Busted: It’s a common belief that a larger air conditioner will cool your home more effectively. However, an oversized unit can actually be less efficient. It may cool the space too quickly, leading to short cycling, which prevents the system from properly dehumidifying the air. This can result in a cool but clammy indoor environment.
When it comes to your AC, go with a unit that’s appropriately sized for your home to ensure optimal efficiency and comfort. A trusted technician can help you avoid purchasing an improperly-sized unit for your home.
Myth 2: Turning the AC Off When You’re Not Home Saves Energy
Busted: While it might seem like turning off your AC when you’re away will save energy, it can actually cause your unit to work harder when you turn it back on. Yikes!
A better approach is to set your thermostat a few degrees higher than normal when you’re out, allowing your system to maintain a consistent temperature without the strain of cooling a hot house upon your return. A programmable thermostat can help manage this automatically.
Myth 3: Lowering the Thermostat Cools Your Home Faster
Busted: Dropping the thermostat setting dramatically won’t cool your home faster. Your air conditioner works at a steady pace to cool your space, regardless of how low the thermostat is set. Setting it much lower than necessary can lead to excessive energy consumption without speeding up the cooling process.
Instead, set your smart thermostat to your desired temperature and let your AC do its job efficiently.
Myth 4: You Only Need to Change the Filter Once a Year
Busted: Regular maintenance is key to keeping your AC running smoothly, and that includes changing the air filter more frequently than once a year. Depending on usage and the type of filter, you should typically replace it every 1-3 months.
A dirty filter can obstruct airflow, reduce efficiency, and lead to more frequent breakdowns, costing you more in the long run. A technician can help show you how to change your filter properly, help determine the best size and brand, and walk you through deciding how often to change it depending on certain factors in your home and around your property.
Myth 5: Ceiling Fans Can Replace Air Conditioning
Busted: While ceiling fans are great for circulating air and creating a breeze, they don’t actually lower the temperature of a room. Fans can make you feel cooler by moving air across your skin, but they won’t reduce humidity or provide the cooling power of an air conditioner.
However, ceiling fans are a great help to your HVAC system. Did you know that turning your fan counterclockwise in the summer months can help push the cool air closer to the ground helping boost your AC’s effectiveness. Do the opposite in the winter to assist your furnace.
The AC Reality
Understanding the facts about your air conditioning system can help you make better decisions, save energy, and ensure your home stays comfortable all season long. If you have more questions or need expert advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’re here to help you bust the myths and keep your cool!
