Hot summer days would be unbearable without ACs or home cooling systems. However, with financial constraints on everyone, it can be costly to keep it running all the time. This has led to a lot of myths surrounding the best and most efficient ways to cool your home.
We’re separating fact from fiction by busting common home cooling myths and helping you cool your home efficiently.
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Turning the AC On and Off Wastes Energy
The truth is, if you’re going to be out of the house for an extended period, turning off the AC will save energy. It may have to run for longer when you come back, but it’s a myth that it uses more energy to do that.
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Setting the Thermostat Lower Cools Your Home Faster
Whether you set your AC to your desired room temperature or a much lower temperature, it will take the same amount of time to cool your home.
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The Bigger the AC, the Better
This is yet another big AC myth.
Installing a huge air conditioner does not provide faster, better, or more efficient cooing. It’s just a massive energy waster because of excessive cycling. It’s also much noisier, which can be very frustrating.
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A High-Efficiency AC Saves Money
This is an AC installation myth that too many people fall for in the hopes of saving on electric bills. An AC cannot be energy efficient on its own. It needs to work in an environment that has proper weatherization, insulation, and sealed air ducts.
Only in these conditions can you achieve the desired money-saving energy efficiency.
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Fans Cool Down a Room
Unfortunately, fans are not a cheaper substitute for ACs. They don’t cool down the room, but rather they cool you down. This means that unless you’re in the room, there’s no point in keeping the fan running as it’s just wasting energy.
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ACs Only Cool Down the Air
In fact, AC’s do more for the air than just cool it down. Air conditioners work to reduce the moisture in the air, making it much less humid and more comfortable on those balmy summer days.
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Duct Tape is Effective for Sealing Air Duct Leaks
It may have duct in the name, but don’t let that fool you. It is not a good way to seal air duct leaks as it tends to peel off. The best way to seal air ducts is to call in a professional.
If you’re committed to doing it yourself, try materials such as aluminum foil tape or mastic sealant.
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Windows Are to Blame for Heating/Cooling Loss
Yes, windows are sometimes the culprit for failed insulation. However, look to your ceiling/roof for the guaranteed perpetrator. Most cold and hot air that escapes the home is through air leaks and poor insulation in the walls and roof/ceiling.
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Keeping the Thermostat at One Temperature Saves Money
Having the AC on while you’re not at home is not always cost-effective or energy efficient.
If you want to keep it on, use a programmable thermostat. This means that you can let the temperature go up when you’re out of the house and prepare for it to be cool when you get back.
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Maintenance is Not Important
This is an AC repair myth that should not be ignored. Organizing a regular AC maintenance program can identify problems like system leaks and coil damage early on.
This helps to avoid serious problems thereby keeping your AC running smoothly and extending its life.
Home Cooling Myths Busted
Are you guilty of falling prey to some of these common myths? Hopefully this guide has helped you see that there is no quick solution or magically money saving trick.
If you have any questions, contact Murphy’s Home Services for all your air conditioner needs.
