Drop These Myths About AC
There’s a lot that goes into running a home central air conditioning system. You need to set the right temperature, deal with any breakdowns, change out the filters, and more. All this effort, though, goes toward making your home comfortable.
In an effort to run an efficient and comfortable home, a lot of myths get thrown around that may sound good, but just aren’t true. We’re breaking down some of these myths so you can learn the best ways to manage your home AC.
Close Vents to Save Energy
When there are areas of your home that aren’t used much, you may try closing the vents so you don’t waste cool air in rooms with no people. While this sounds like a logical idea, it actually won’t save you energy.
Instead, to save energy, try raising your thermostat temperature. Or, if you want closer control over different areas of your home, you may benefit from a zoning system.
You Should “Crank” the AC When it’s Hot
One of the most common misconceptions is that you can raise and lower the power of your air conditioner. When you get home from work and your home is stuffy and hot, resist the urge to lower the thermostat below your desired temperature.
Most air conditioners only operate at one “speed.” Likewise, the temperature you set is not the temperature of the cool air, but rather the desired ambient temperature of your home. So setting your thermostat to, say 68 degrees, won’t speed up how cool your home gets and will only make your system run longer and cost you more money.
If you want to better tune your temperature to fit your schedule without wasting energy, consider installing a smart thermostat. You can set a schedule so the temperature adjusts when you get home automatically, and you won’t walk into a hot home.
Any Filter Will Do
Hopefully, you’re aware of the importance of changing your air filters. These simple, yet crucial devices insert into your HVAC system and remove dust and debris from the air. Once they get full, you need to replace them in order for your system to function at maximum efficiency.
A lot of people will just grab any filter to insert into their system, as long as it fits. But there are good and bad filters, and it can take some trial and error. There are media filters, which are considered the most comprehensive, but there are also standard and HEPA filters. Each differs in its ability to filter particles while still remaining efficient.
Consult with your HVAC professional to figure out which filter is right for your home, as they are not all created equal.
You Don’t Need an Annual Tune-Up
A lot of homeowners push off their annual tune-ups and maintenance appointments if their AC is running smoothly. This makes sense – why do you need a service if there’s nothing wrong?
Well, this is a myth because with an appliance as complicated and important as an air conditioner, it needs preventative maintenance. An annual tune-up, ideally before the peak summer season, will ensure your system is ready to endure the hot weather.
During a tune-up, a professional HVAC technician will review every aspect of your system, including electrical connections, unit components, the thermostat, refrigerant levels, and more. They can also change and recommend the right filter.
Don’t skip out on this crucial and affordable service, as it will make your system run more efficiently, reduce your energy bills, and prevent costly repairs.
This Ain’t Our First Rodeo
During our decades in the HVAC business, we’ve seen it all. Trust the Hobson AC team to keep your home comfortable all year round. Contact us today at (817) 341-5142 to consult with our experts.