HVAC Tips / June 22, 2021
Home Cooling Misconceptions You Should Stop Believing
There are many ways to keep your home cool without incurring huge AC bills, ranging from upgrading your windows to investing in a programmable thermostat and using ceiling fans. Similarly, the internet is full of AC misconceptions and myths that promise to save energy and lessen utility bills. Learn seven misconceptions about home cooling you should not believe.
A Bigger AC Offers Better Results
When buying an AC unit, you should choose the right size considering factors like home size, insulation, roof characteristics, and air leakage. Purchasing an oversized AC unit is a bad idea and does not deliver better outcomes. It uses more energy and strains to cool your home. Also, an oversized unit has short cycles, resulting in inconsistent temperatures in your home and high levels of humidity.
A properly sized AC is best as it keeps you comfortable and uses less energy. It also has a long lifespan, so it will serve you longer than an oversized one.
Lowering a Thermostat’s Temperature Significantly Cools the House Faster
AC units function at a consistent rate to reach your desired temperature. When you set the thermostat way down, it will work harder and use more energy to reach the target temperature. It does not mean your home will cool at a faster rate.
Running a Fan Makes AC Unnecessary
Ceiling fans do not cool air; they only circulate it. Their most significant benefit is creating a breeze that keeps you cooler. On the other hand, an AC unit does more than cool air; it also eliminates excess moisture. As such, a fan is not a great substitute for an air conditioner.
Turning Off the AC When Away Every Day Saves Energy
You may think that switching off your system every time you leave the house will save energy and reduce utility bills, but that’s not the case. Instead, your AC will have to work harder to keep temperatures down once you get home. Unless you won’t be home for an extended period of time (more than a day), then switching off your AC system is an excellent idea.
You can save energy by investing in a programmable thermostat that allows you to create a cooling schedule. It raises temperatures while nobody is home and starts cooling down before you get home.
Using a High-Efficiency AC Unit Gives You Huge Energy Savings
You won’t save money by simply buying the highest-rated AC. Maximizing your energy savings involves using the unit optimally and efficiently. This includes proper installation, service, and maintenance. Also, take steps that lower energy consumption, such as weatherizing and insulating your home.
Placing the AC Carefully Does Not Matter
The locations of your AC unit and your thermostat are crucial and affect the system’s efficiency. It is advisable to keep your thermostat away from electrical appliances, light fixtures, and other energy sources. This is because the emitted heat can compromise the thermostat’s ability to sense the room’s temperature correctly. Also, ensuring your AC unit has ample airflow is key to efficient performance.
Doing AC Maintenance Is a Waste of Money
Some people do not understand why they should hire an HVAC professional to examine an air conditioner that does not have a problem and consider it a waste of money. Contrary to this, regular AC maintenance saves money in several ways.
First, it ensures your AC functions efficiently, resulting in lower utility bills. Second, it detects AC problems early, before they become significant issues requiring costly repairs. Third, you prolong the lifespan of your AC and avoid premature failure.
The only way to reduce your AC’s energy consumption and lower your utility bills is to use the unit sensibly and perform regular maintenance. Get in touch with Mauzy for AC service and maintenance in San Diego. We commit to keeping your family happy and comfortable and protecting your peace of mind.
