Common Air Conditioning Myths

Though air conditioning technology has existed for decades, there are still plenty of common misconceptions homeowners have about running their cooling system. And the trouble is, these myths are not harmless. In fact, believing these myths tends to overexert the cooling system and often lead to expensive air conditioning repair in Los Gatos, CA. So, to help, we are here to set the record straight.

Myth: Turning the thermostat way down will cool the home faster.

This is a common myth in many households. But turning the temperature way down on the thermostat will not help cool the home any faster. The air conditioner simply emits the same amount of cool air until the home reaches the desired temperature. Cranking it down will only run the risk of running the air conditioner much longer than necessary. The best course of action is to always set the thermostat precisely where you need it.

Myth: A bigger air conditioning unit works better.

Yes, when it comes to air conditioning units, size does matter. But maybe not in the way you would think. Just getting the biggest one you can find will not be efficient. Bigger units will draw more power. And if you don’t have a home large enough to accommodate the output, it will cause the system to short cycle, burn out, and break down. It is way more important to find an air conditioner that is sized properly for the home.

Myth: When you aren’t home turn the air conditioner off to save money.

Many homeowners shut off the air conditioner when they go to work, thinking it is a good way to save energy and money. After all, why cool a home when no one is around to enjoy it? Unfortunately, this plan often backfires. If you turn the air conditioner off completely on a hot summer day, then the system has to work even harder to cool the home when you get back. It is more efficient to simply turn the thermostat up about 10 degrees warmer. You will still get significant energy savings without putting your entire cooling system at risk. And a programmable thermostat allows you to adjust these temperatures so it happens automatically when you leave and just before you return home.

Myth: Close the air vents in unused areas of the house.

This is another common misconception. People think they save energy by closing off the vents in unused rooms. But what they may not realize is the HVAC system is meant to cool the entire home. It will work most efficiently if all the vents are open and unobstructed.

Myth: Thermostat location doesn’t impact temperature or air quality.

Wrong. Thermostat location is vitally important. You want to make sure your thermostat is located in a common area of the home. It should not be on any exterior walls or in proximity to a window or too much direct sunlight. That is the only way it can monitor the average temperatures and keep your home comfortable.

Myth: The air conditioner only needs repair when something goes wrong.

It can be so tempting to put off routine services on your air conditioner. But don’t be fooled. Just like your car needs regular maintenance, a professional technician should check on your heating and cooling at least once a year.

Need to schedule your annual air conditioning repair in Los Gatos, CA? Contact Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning today.