During the sweltering heat of summer, homeowners may look for solutions to reduce their air conditioning costs. Unfortunately, several misconceptions about AC repair and maintenance can lead to increased energy bills and costly repairs.

Myth: The Bigger AC Units Always Provide Better Performance

A common belief among homeowners is that a bigger air conditioning unit will provide better cooling and efficiency. However, the size of the AC unit is not the only factor influencing performance. An AC unit that is oversized can short cycle. This is a process where your AC turns on and off repeatedly in short intervals without adequately cooling your home. This constant switching can significantly reduce your unit's lifespan and increase energy consumption.

In addition, a large AC may struggle to maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home due to uneven cooling patterns. Choosing an appropriately sized air conditioning system is crucial based on the size of your house and individual needs. A professional AC installation technician can assist you with calculating the estimated cool capacity your home needs.

Myth: You Should Always Close Any Vents In Rooms You Are Not Using

Another prevalent myth is that closing vents in unused rooms helps save energy by redirecting airflow only where needed. On the contrary, closing vents can disrupt proper airflow within your HVAC system by creating pressure imbalances. This imbalance may force your air conditioner to work harder.

Furthermore, restricting airflow could lead to frozen evaporator coils or compressor damage. These issues are expensive to address and require a professional contractor to repair them. Instead of closing vents in unused rooms entirely, partially open them so you do not hinder airflow while still conserving some energy.

Myth: Turning Off The AC When Leaving Home Saves Money

While it may sound logical that turning off your air conditioner when leaving home saves money on energy bills since it is not running, this is not always the case. Turning off your AC can cause indoor temperatures to rise significantly, forcing your unit to work overtime once you turn it back on. This could lead to an increase in energy usage.

Instead of turning off your AC, invest in a thermostat that supports programmable features this allows you to set desired temperature ranges when you are away. Maintaining a more consistent indoor temperature means your air conditioning system will not need to work as hard when you return home. In addition to saving energy, these thermostats allow you to return home to a house that is the temperature you prefer.

Reach out to a local AC technician for more info.