5 Air Conditioner Myths Costing You Money and Comfort

Common Misconceptions About Air Conditioning Usage

Air conditioning is a crucial element during the hot summer months, providing relief from the sweltering heat. However, many people have misconceptions about how to use their AC units effectively. These misunderstandings can lead to higher energy bills, less efficient cooling, and even damage to the unit itself. Understanding the facts can help you make the most of your air conditioning system.

Turning Down the Thermostat to "Make It Cool Faster"

One of the most common mistakes people make is turning the thermostat down significantly when they're feeling overheated. The belief is that this will cool the room faster. However, HVAC professionals explain that this approach is not effective.

Rich Walker, president of Summers Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling, states that the unit will run at the same rate regardless of how low the temperature is set. “The unit will provide the same amount of cooling, at least on most systems, it will just continue to run until it meets that temperature. But it will not cool faster or harder.”

Benjamin Uscilla, an HVAC technician and owner of Evergreen Heating and Cooling, adds that setting the thermostat below 68 degrees is not recommended by most manufacturers. This can cause mechanical failures because the unit is not designed to operate at such low temperatures.

Turning Up the Thermostat When No One's Home to Save Money

Many homeowners try to save money by turning up the thermostat when they are away from home. While this might seem like a good idea, it can actually be counterproductive.

Uscilla explains that adjusting the thermostat too much can cause the house to take longer to cool down when you return. “It just means that when you get home, it’s going to take potentially hours for the house to get back to your comfort level and most likely will not save you any money in operation.”

Walker suggests that it's better to maintain a consistent temperature rather than making large adjustments. Using a programmable thermostat can help manage the temperature more efficiently, ensuring your home is comfortable when you return.

Turning the AC Off When You're Away Will Save Money

Another common misconception is turning off the AC completely when leaving the house. This can be worse than simply adjusting the thermostat. Letting your home get too hot can strain the AC unit when you turn it back on, leading to potential damage.

Additionally, excessive heat can cause issues with your floors, appliances, windows, and woodwork. High humidity levels can also result, leading to further damage and health concerns. It's best to keep the AC running at a moderate setting rather than turning it off entirely.

Thinking the AC Will Fix Humidity Issues

Humidity is another factor that can affect your comfort. Many people believe that their AC will automatically handle humidity. However, while AC units do remove some moisture from the air, they are primarily designed for cooling, not dehumidification.

Ken Nelson, group sales manager, ventilation at Panasonic North America, notes that addressing humidity issues requires a holistic approach. “AC does help, but it’s primarily designed to cool, not dehumidify.” If you have indoor humidity problems, consider using a dedicated dehumidifier or improving ventilation.

Thinking Bigger Is Better

In areas with extreme heat, some homeowners think they need the largest AC unit available. However, an oversized unit can be inefficient. It cools the space too quickly, leading to frequent cycling on and off, which can increase energy costs and wear out the unit.

Chris Hunter, director of customer relations at Service Titan, explains that an oversized AC may not run long enough to properly dehumidify the space. “If [the AC is] oversized for your square footage, it cools down too fast, never allowing the unit to run long enough to dehumidify appropriately.”

It's important to ensure your AC unit is properly sized for your home to maximize efficiency and comfort. By understanding these common misconceptions, you can make informed decisions about your air conditioning usage and enjoy a cooler, more comfortable living environment.