UPDATED: July 17th, 2024

Air conditioning technology has existed for some time and continues to advance. Even so, many homeowners still can’t separate fact from fiction when it comes to their units.

Thankfully, Burnsville Heating & Air Conditioning is here to debunk some of the most talked about myths found online. Read on to learn eight common myths about air conditioners.

8 Common Air Conditioning Myths

Myth 1: Turning Your Temperature Lower Will Result in Faster Cooling

Many homeowners believe that turning their temperature lower will cool their homes faster. However, this isn’t the case. This is a common misconception due to homeowners not understanding how their air conditioning unit works.

Turning the temperature down even more than usual doesn’t make it work harder to cool the home faster. The AC works just as hard to lower the temperature by 5 degrees as it does by 15 degrees. For this reason, it’s best to set your air conditioning unit where you want it vs lower than what you need.

Myth 2: Having a Bigger Unit is Better

Bigger is not always better, and this certainly holds for AC units. Air conditioning units are sized according to the number of cubic feet needed to cool the space. When shopping for units, homeowners need to consider this.

For instance, an AC unit that’s too small for a space will have to work harder to meet the thermostat’s demands. On the other hand, an AC unit designed for a larger space will constantly turn on and off, which will wear the unit out over time.

With that said, don’t think bigger when getting an AC unit. Your AC unit should always be rated for the size of your space.

Myth 3: It’s Best to Let an Air Conditioner Run Until it Gives Out

Most people prefer to use things until they can’t anymore. While this usually makes sense, this isn’t the best idea for air conditioners. An old air conditioner will perform poorly. Additionally, relying on an old unit will cost you more in repairs over time. If your unit is over 12 years old, it’s time to upgrade.

Myth 4: It’s Better to Turn Your AC Off When You Leave the House

Turning the AC off when you leave the house sounds like a good idea to save money, but this isn’t necessarily the case. Constantly turning off your air conditioner can lead to additional expenses. For instance, it’s possible that the temperatures can change drastically while you’re away. If that happens, the system may take longer to restore to a comfortable temp.

Additionally, air conditioners play a crucial role in indoor air quality by managing humidity within the home. It’s better to let the AC run constantly to avoid other issues.

Myth 5: Where You Put the Thermostat Doesn’t Matter

Where you place your thermostat does matter because it affects how your HVAC system performs. It’s best to install a thermostat on the interior wall of your home because it limits exposure to sunlight, windows, and drafts.

Myth 6: Closing Vents Will Save Money

It’s never a good idea to close vents in the hopes of saving money. A properly installed HVAC system will be sized and balanced based on the amount of air intended to circulate in the home. Closing vents can throw off your system’s balance or change how air is distributed inside the home, making the rest of the house uncomfortable.

Myth 7: An Energy-Efficient Air Conditioner Won’t Save Money

Some homeowners are reluctant to invest in energy-efficient air conditioners. But an energy-efficient unit is the best option if you want to save money. High SEER air conditioners generally cost less to run than their counterparts under the same conditions.

Note that additional variables are at play when trying to achieve lower energy costs. Factors like having the correct equipment, sealed ducts, and the correct unit size are key.

Myth 8: Maintenance Plans Don’t Affect Unit Efficiency

A maintenance plan is one of the greatest investments for your HVAC system. A professional licensed HVAC professional can identify airflow problems, system leaks, coil issues, and any other potential concerns. This will lengthen the lifespan of your unit and help you save money in the long run.

Clearing the Air: Burnsville Heating & Air Conditioning Sets The Record Straight on Air Conditioner Myths 

At Burnsville Heating & Air Conditioning, we want to provide you with as much comfort as possible. For over 30 years, we have delivered exceptional heating and cooling services in Burnsville, MN, and the surrounding areas.

We hope that these debunked myths provided you with more clarity about your air conditioning unit. If you need air conditioning repair services or are interested in a new installation, contact us today.

Image Source: AntonioDiaz / Shutterstock