Are you following bad advice about your air conditioner and the best ways to cool your home? There are a lot of myths floating around regarding proper equipment use and efficient temperature settings. Many of these myths are completely false. In fact, some of them could actually cause your energy bill to increase. Others can create unnecessary wear and tear and eventually cause a system failure.
We want to help you bust some of the misinformation surrounding air conditioners and the best ways to use them. Before you adjust your temperature settings or attempt to reroute airflow by shutting vents, read our quick guide below. It could mean enjoying your indoor air even more this summer.
Myth #1: Turn Off Your AC While You’re at Work
Turning off your AC for eight hours a day isn’t a good energy-saving idea. The Department of Energy advises turning the temperature setting up 7-10 degrees instead. This keeps the indoor temperature at a manageable level, making it easier to cool the air when you return.
Turning the system completely off means indoor temperatures could rise higher than 10 degrees. In this case, returning indoor air to a livable temperature raises energy costs and causes undue equipment wear.
Myth #2: Use Ceiling Fans to Keep Rooms Cooler
Ceiling fans, floor fans, and desk fans are great for agitating and stirring the air. However, fans alone are not designed to cool a room. They are only designed to move air around or to push conditioned air into a room. Use ceiling fans to feel a bit more comfortable in the rooms you occupy daily. Conserve energy costs by turning them off when you decide to leave the room.
Myth #3: Drop Temperature Settings for Faster Cooling
Air conditioners are built to cool the air and then push the air into the home using a blower or fan. The speed at which the air enters the home is controlled by the fan. Most systems utilize a single-speed fan. The AC system cannot operate any faster than the speed of the fan. Dropping the temperature dramatically doesn’t cool the home faster, but it can mean larger utility bills.
Faught Service Company is available to help you with your AC in Austin. Our technicians are experienced at servicing all makes and models. We’d be happy to assist you with a system inspection, repair, or replacement.
Myth #4: Close Vents to Manage Airflow
Closing vents doesn’t stop the air from flowing through the ductwork to the vent. Your air conditioner will continue to produce the same amount of air but will not circulate it properly. When you close vents, you increase energy costs and put undue pressure on the interior of the ducting system. This, in turn, can cause leaks and require repairs. Closing doors to unoccupied rooms can have a similar effect. Try redirecting the vent mechanism for a more effective solution.
Myth #5: A Bigger AC Unit Is Better
It’s easy to get pulled into the idea that a bigger AC unit is better, but this isn’t true. Manufacturers design their equipment to function best according to square footage. Each model will have its own set of cooling parameters and capabilities.
When installing a high-performance unit, make sure you’re working with a knowledgeable company that knows how to assess floor plans. Check with the equipment manufacturer for further information about sizing your unit correctly.
Myth #6: Running Your AC Costs the Same Day or Night
Find out the truth about how your local energy company charges you by requesting information about their rates. Power companies often increase costs during peak periods. Peak times are when the demand for energy is at an all-time high. During peak times, raising your temperature settings can help you avoid higher energy bills.
The professionals at Faught Service Company have your air conditioning needs covered in Austin. Our team has been providing area residents with quality services since 1994. We install top-rated heating and cooling systems made by Lennox and Mitsubishi. Locals depend on us for repairs, maintenance, and installation services. We also offer duct replacements, and we participate in the City of Austin High-Performance with Energy Star Program. You can rely on us to service all makes and models. Call our office today to schedule a visit from a qualified technician.
