Air Conditioning Myths That are Costing You Money

Hey there! Today, we’re diving into the world of air conditioning myths – those sneaky beliefs that might be chilling your wallet more than your home. But before we debunk, let’s quickly peek under the hood of your AC to see how it works its cooling magic.

Picture this: your air conditioner is like a mystical wizard, whisking away warm air from inside your home, zapping it with a refrigerant to remove the heat, and then blowing out that refreshing, cool breeze. And hey, it’s not just about cooling – it also banishes moisture, making your home feel like a comfy oasis.

Here’s the lowdown on the sorcery works:

• The refrigerant evaporates in the evaporator coil, sucking heat from the indoor air.
• Next, the refrigerant gas gets squeezed by the compressor, raising its temperature.
• This hot, pressurized gas heads to the condenser coil around the compressor, sheds its heat, and becomes a liquid again.
• The liquid refrigerant passes through an expansion valve or device, where it chills out (literally) by reducing its pressure and temperature.
• The whole shebang repeats, with the refrigerant gobbling up more heat from your home’s air, keeping things cool and comfy.

Knowing how it cools the air is like mastering a magical potion – it helps you troubleshoot any issues that may arise. Picture yourself as a wizard, waving your wand (or in this case, your knowledge) to optimize its performance, ensuring your home stays as cool as a wizard’s ice palace.

Furthermore, this understanding empowers you to converse with HVAC professionals with the confidence of a seasoned sorcerer. You can communicate your needs effectively, ensuring your AC is tended to with the care and expertise it deserves.

Now that we have a basic understanding of how your system works let’s take those myths and give them a closer look.

Myth: Cranking the thermostat cools your home faster.

Ah, the old “Arctic Blast” approach. Unfortunately, air conditioners don’t have a turbo button. Setting your thermostat super low won’t make your home cool down any faster. Your AC cools at a steady pace, no matter how low you go. Save energy and avoid overcooling by setting it to a comfortable temperature and letting it work its magic.

Myth: Bigger AC units are better.

Size matters, but bigger isn’t always better – just ask anyone who’s tried to parallel park an extended pick up truck in Kelowna. An oversized AC unit might cool your home faster, but it can also leave you with uneven cooling, higher humidity, and a hefty energy bill. Get an AC that’s just right for your space to ensure efficient cooling without the excess.

Myth: Turning off the AC when you’re out saves money.

It seems logical – if you’re not home, why cool an empty house? But here’s the twist: turning off the AC completely can actually backfire. When you come back to a sauna, your AC has to work overtime to bring the temperature back down, using more energy than if it had kept things steady. Instead, try raising the temperature a few degrees when you’re away. Your AC won’t have to work as hard to cool things down when you return, saving you money and keeping you comfortable.

Myth: Air filters last forever.

Ah, the silent hero of your HVAC system – the air filter. It might seem like a set-it-and-forget-it deal, but these filters need regular love and attention. A clogged filter can restrict airflow, making your AC work harder and potentially causing damage. Check and replace your filters every 1 to 3 months to keep your system running smoothly and your air clean.

Myth: Let your old AC unit kick the bucket before replacing it.

It’s tempting to stick with your old faithful until the bitter end, but there are good reasons to consider an upgrade before that happens. Older units can be less energy-efficient, costing you more in the long run. Plus, newer models often come with better features, like improved cooling performance and eco-friendly refrigerants. Don’t wait until your AC is on its last legs – upgrade to a more efficient model and stay cool without breaking the bank.

Myth: Thermostat location doesn’t matter.

Your thermostat might seem like it has a cushy job, but its location can make or break your comfort. Placing it near a heat source, a drafty window, or in a room that’s rarely used can throw off its readings, leading to uneven cooling or heating. For accurate temperature control, put your thermostat in a central location away from direct sunlight and drafts.

Myth: Running the fan on your furnace is pointless.

Don’t let your furnace fan feel left out – it’s got a job to do too! Running the fan can help distribute air more evenly throughout your home, reducing hot or cold spots and keeping your air fresher. Plus, it can help balance humidity levels, making your home more comfortable overall.

Myth: Closing vents in unused rooms saves energy.

It might seem like a smart move – why cool a room you’re not using? But closing vents can actually mess with your HVAC system. It can create pressure imbalances, leading to reduced efficiency and potentially higher energy bills. Keep all vents open and make sure your system is properly balanced for optimal performance.

Myth: New AC units don’t need checkups.

Even the freshest AC units need a little TLC now and then. Regular maintenance can catch issues early, keeping your AC running smoothly and efficiently. Plus, it can extend the life of your unit, saving you money in the long run. Don’t skip the checkups – your AC will thank you!

And with that, we’ve unveiled the mysteries behind these common AC myths. Keep these in your back pocket to stay as chill as a cucumber, all while keeping your energy bills in check!

Speaking of staying cool, why not ensure your AC is in top-notch shape for the summer? Here at Fix It Thermodynamics, we’re your go-to wizards for all things heating and cooling. Whether it’s maintaining your unit’s efficiency or warding off winter’s lingering effects, our team in Kelowna has got you covered!

Don’t let the summer heat get the best of you – schedule a service with us today and let us work our magic to keep you comfortable all season long! Contact Fix It Thermodynamics now for all your HVAC needs!