Five Common Misconceptions about Air Conditioners
Air conditioners are extremely user-friendly electronics. For this reason, most homeowners do not invest much in getting to know the nitty-gritty of the myths and misconceptions of air conditioners. Having some basic knowledge of how air conditioners work can save you a lot of money in energy costs. In this article, we debunk five common misconceptions about air conditioners.
There is no need for maintenance
For most people, the air conditioner needs no maintenance once installed. Air conditioners are on throughout the day and night for months and for this reason, require regular maintenance every six months. While most people deem AC maintenance as an unnecessary cost, lack of regular maintenance can cost you a lot much later as potential issues that could have been solved at an earlier stage will deteriorate over time. Hopefully, even if you fail to maintain your air conditioner regularly, working with a trusted company specializing in air conditioning repair found here can help you solve any potential issue quickly and efficiently. They may also advise you on proper maintenance tips for optimum use of your air conditioner.
If you live in Florida, for example, looking up Fort Lauderdale AC Repair should give you a comprehensive list of companies that can take care of your AC system. Keep in mind that regular maintenance can extend the life of your air conditioner, saving you from expensive repairs or replacements.
A bigger air conditioner performs better
The summer heat may have you installing the biggest AC unit you can get to cool things off fast when you need them. This myth is, however untrue as a reasonably sized air conditioner will serve your home well enough. A big air conditioner will most likely cost you more in energy costs and will do exactly what a reasonably sized AC would have done. If the air conditioner is disproportionate to your home, it tends to make a lot more cycles leading to more wear which in turn means more maintenance and repair costs.
There are other factors that can also influence the size of your AC, such as the ductwork in your home and the layout of the home in general.
You do not need to clean your AC
Air conditioners are built to work for months on their own. This does not mean that they will not collect debris over time. Most air conditioners have parts that are meant to be installed outside the room, which exposes them to environmental debris. Cleaning your air conditioner from time to time should therefore for part of your cleaning routine at least once every month.
This will allow you to get rid of little bugs and insects which may have found their way into the AC especially if there are shrubs around the air conditioner. You should also ensure the AC is installed away from your pets to prevent them from chewing on the wires. Have everything cleaned and tucked away regularly for longer use.
Filters do not need to be changed
Most people are aware that they need to regularly dust the filter. After months of use, dusting alone is not sufficient as debris can coat the air filter compromising its functionality and damaging the AC. It is advisable that you change your filters every three months to ensure they are functioning properly.
Lowering the thermostat’s temperature to cool down fast
The heat can be very frustrating. Lowering your thermostat’s temperature drastically below the recommended temperature is not recommended. Air conditioners are engineered to have temperatures that range from 10 degrees to 15 degrees below the environment around them. Your air conditioner coils can freeze if you lower temperatures below the recommended temperature, causing a complete shutdown of the system.
Air conditioners only control the temperature
Air conditioners control both temperature and humidity. The humidity of your home determines how efficient your air conditioner will be. Humidity directly affects the temperature of your home. If the air in the home is too humid, then your air conditioner will work more to eliminate water vapor from the air.
Air conditioners are not environment-friendly
Environmentalists will tell you air conditioners directly affect the environment. Air conditioners do release carbon dioxide as a by-product into the environment. Regular maintenance can help reduce the amount of carbon dioxide your air conditioner releases into the environment. If you choose to use an air conditioner, it is your responsibility to limit the carbon footprint it leaves on the environment.
The location of the thermostat is not important
This myth is actually true. The location of your thermostat will determine where your AC will be located. Thermostats detect the ambiance of the room and feed this information into the AC which in turn emits cooler air.
If the AC is in a cooler room, it will assume the desired temperature has been achieved and will therefore shut down.
Using an Air Conditioner Will give you a Cold
This misconception is very untrue. There is a chance you will feel cold because of lower temperatures in your home but the air conditioner will not make you sick. The common cold is caused by a virus and not by the AC, so feel safe as you crank up your air conditioner. Just make sure you also keep the home clean to avoid the spread of viruses.
Turn off Your AC If You are Away for Long Periods of Time
Some people will tell you to turn off your AC if you are going to be away for long periods of time to save energy. The AC will work harder to restart when you get back. It is advisable that you program your thermostat to a temperature that will be good enough for plants and pets. You can resume normal cooling once you are back home.
A bit of knowledge on how your AC works can help maintain it in good shape for a long time while saving you a lot of money. We hope this article has shed more light on the ins and outs of your air conditioner’s performance. Remember, you get advice from an expert whenever you need assistance.
