11 Air Conditioning Myths That Are Uncomfortable and incorrect

The realm of home improvement is fraught with old wives’ tales and misconceptions, particularly when it comes to air conditioning. In the UK, where the climate is mild compared to other parts of the world, homeowners often fall victim to myths that can lead to inefficient use, costly repairs, and unnecessary energy expenses. Today, we tackle 11 air conditioning myths that are costing you money, and debunk them one by one.

11 Air Conditioning Myths

Discover key insights that can help you save money on your air conditioning expenses.
– Waiting until your air conditioner breaks down before replacing it can lead to higher repair costs and inefficient cooling.
– A larger air conditioner doesn’t necessarily cool better; proper sizing is crucial for efficiency and comfort.
– Turning off your air conditioner while away doesn’t always save energy; it can actually cause your system to work harder when you return.

Myth 1: You Should Wait Until Your Air Conditioner Breaks Down to Replace It

This myth is as costly as it is misguided. Waiting for your air conditioner to completely fail before replacing it can lead to an unexpected breakdown at the worst possible time, like during a heatwave. Imagine a typical UK summer’s day when temperatures soar unexpectedly—being caught without cooling can be uncomfortable and expensive.

The smart move is to replace your air conditioner when it starts showing signs of inefficiency or when it reaches the end of its typical lifespan, which is around 10-15 years. Older units consume more energy and cost more in repairs. According to the Energy Saving Trust, upgrading to a newer, more efficient model can save you up to 30% on your energy bills.

Insider Tip: Regular maintenance can extend the life of your air conditioner. Annual check-ups can prevent costly repairs and keep your system running smoothly.

Myth 2: The Bigger the Air Conditioner, the Better It Cools

This myth is rooted in the belief that bigger is inherently better, but when it comes to air conditioning, size matters—and not in the way you might think. An oversized air conditioner will cool your home too quickly, resulting in a cycle of frequent starts and stops that can wear out the system prematurely. Furthermore, it won’t effectively remove humidity, leaving your home clammy and uncomfortable.

Choosing the right size unit for your living space is crucial. A unit that is too small will struggle to cool your home, while one that’s too big will do so inefficiently. A professional HVAC technician can perform a load calculation to determine the appropriate size for your needs, considering factors such as the size of your home, insulation, and window placement.

Insider Tip: Invest in a unit with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating. It may cost more upfront, but the savings on your energy bills will more than make up for it over time.

Myth 3: You Can Save Energy by Turning Your Air Conditioner Off When You Leave Home

It seems logical—why cool an empty home? However, turning your air conditioner off completely can lead to a spike in energy use when you return and need to cool a hot house quickly. This sudden surge can actually use more energy than maintaining a steady, moderate temperature throughout the day.

Instead, use a programmable thermostat to raise the temperature slightly when you’re away and lower it before you return home. This approach prevents your system from working overtime and helps maintain a consistent indoor climate. In the long run, you’ll see savings on your energy bills without sacrificing comfort.

Insider Tip: Smart thermostats are a great investment. They learn your schedule and preferences, adjusting the temperature automatically to optimize efficiency.

Myth 4: You Can Save Energy by Turning Your Air Conditioner Down to a Lower Temperature

Lowering the thermostat to a chilly setting won’t cool your home faster. Air conditioners work at a steady pace, regardless of the temperature setting. By setting the thermostat too low, you’re likely to leave it running longer than necessary, leading to higher energy consumption and costs.

Instead, set your thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature. The Department of Energy recommends 24-26°C (75-78°F) when you’re at home and 28°C (82°F) when you’re away. This setting strikes a balance between comfort and cost.

Insider Tip: Ceiling fans can help you feel cooler by creating a wind-chill effect, allowing you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort.

Myth 5: You Don’t Need to Change Your Air Conditioner’s Filter in the Winter

Even if you aren’t using the cooling function, your HVAC system’s fan might still circulate air through the filter in the winter. A dirty filter can restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder and leading to increased energy usage and wear.

Regularly changing your air filter is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality and the efficiency of your system. Most experts recommend checking the filter every month and replacing it every three months, or more often if you have pets or allergies.

Insider Tip: Keep a few spare filters on hand so you can replace them as needed without a trip to the store.

Myth 6: You Don’t Need to Clean Your Air Conditioner’s Outdoor Unit

Out of sight shouldn’t mean out of mind. The outdoor unit of your air conditioning system is exposed to the elements, which means it can collect dirt, leaves, and debris. This accumulation can obstruct airflow, reduce efficiency, and strain the system.

Regular cleaning of the outdoor unit is crucial. A simple rinse with a garden hose every few months can prevent buildup. Be mindful not to bend the fins when cleaning, as this can impede airflow and damage the unit.

Insider Tip: Schedule professional maintenance at least once a year to ensure your system is thoroughly cleaned and inspected for potential issues.

Myth 7: You Can Save Energy by Closing Vents in Unused Rooms

This myth might seem like common sense—why cool a room that no one is using? However, closing vents can disrupt the balance and pressure of your HVAC system. This imbalance can lead to inefficiencies and increased wear and tear on your system, potentially causing leaks or other damage.

Your HVAC system is designed to cool your entire home, and closing off vents can create back pressure, forcing the system to work harder to distribute air. Instead of closing vents, consider zoning systems, which allow you to control temperatures in different areas of your home.

Insider Tip: If zoning is not an option, ensure all vents and interior doors are open to maintain proper airflow and balance.

Myth 8: It’s Okay to Block Your Air Conditioner’s Thermostat with Furniture or Drapes

Thermostats are the brains of your air conditioning system, and blocking them with furniture or drapes can lead to inaccurate temperature readings. If the thermostat is tucked behind a couch or curtain, it may think your home is cooler or warmer than it actually is, causing the system to run inefficiently.

Ensure your thermostat is placed in a central, unobstructed location to get the most accurate readings. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, near drafts, or close to heat-producing appliances.

Insider Tip: Consider installing a smart thermostat that can be controlled remotely, ensuring optimal settings even when you’re away from home.

Myth 9: You Can Save Energy by Using a Fan Instead of Air Conditioning

Fans and air conditioners serve different purposes. Fans circulate air and create a cooling effect on the skin, but they don’t actually decrease the air temperature. Air conditioners, on the other hand, remove heat and humidity from the air, providing genuine cooling.

While fans can complement your air conditioning system by allowing you to set the thermostat higher, they are not a substitute for air conditioning during particularly hot or humid conditions. Use fans wisely to enhance comfort, but don’t rely on them alone during the peak of summer.

Insider Tip: Turn off fans when leaving a room to save energy, as they cool people, not spaces.

Myth 10: It’s Okay to Use an Extension Cord with a Window Air Conditioner

Safety should always be a top priority, and using an extension cord with a window air conditioner is a risky move. These units draw significant power, and most extension cords aren’t designed to handle this load, posing a fire hazard.

Always plug window air conditioners directly into a wall outlet. If you find the cord is too short, it’s better to have an electrician install a new outlet closer to the unit to ensure safety and compliance with electrical codes.

Insider Tip: Regularly inspect the cords and outlets of your air conditioning units for any signs of wear or damage, and address issues promptly.

Myth 11: It’s Okay to Use a Fireplace Flue as an Air Conditioner Vent

This myth can lead to dangerous consequences. A fireplace flue is not designed for venting an air conditioner, and doing so can lead to backdrafts, allowing harmful gases like carbon monoxide to enter your home. Moreover, it’s an inefficient way to vent air, as it can disrupt the flow and performance of your air conditioning system.

Air conditioners should always be vented according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using dedicated vents. This ensures safety, optimal performance, and energy efficiency.

Insider Tip: If you’re unsure about venting requirements for your air conditioning unit, consult with a professional HVAC technician to avoid potential hazards.

In conclusion, avoiding these 11 Air Conditioning Myths that are costing you money not only ensures the efficient operation of your cooling system but also enhances your comfort and safety. By debunking these misconceptions, you can make informed decisions that keep your home cool without breaking the bank. Remember, knowledge is power, especially when it comes to maintaining your home and saving on energy costs.