12 Common Myths About Air Conditioners

Air conditioners are everywhere in modern life. We use them to cool our homes, offices and cars during hot summer days. The basic principles of air conditioning Central Coast involve the transfer of heat from one place to another. An air conditioner typically transfers heat from the inside of a building or car to the outside. It does this by using a refrigerant that goes through a cycle of evaporation and condensation. 

An air conditioner consists of four main components: a compressor, two coils, and a fan. The compressor acts like a pump that forces the refrigerant fluid through the system's pipes and valves. The two coils are responsible for cooling down the refrigerant as it passes through. The outdoor coil contains the refrigerant in its liquid state, while the indoor coil evaporates it into a gas. 

The fan is used to help move the cooled air from one place to another. It pulls hot air from inside and pushes cooled air outside. In a split system air conditioner, there are two fans – one which moves the cool air inside and another which expels warm air outdoors. 

When you turn on your cooling appliance, warm air enters the unit via an intake duct and passes over the cold evaporator coil inside the unit. This causes condensation to occur on the evaporator coils so that they can absorb heat from within the room or space being cooled. 

Sadly, air conditioners are often misunderstood and many people have misconceptions about them. The following list details the most common myths about air conditioners that need to be debunked. 

Air Conditioners are Unhealthy

This is false. Modern air conditioners help improve the quality of indoor air by trapping dust, pollen, and other allergens. They can also reduce humidity levels for a more comfortable environment. 

Air Conditioners Increase Energy Bills

While it's true that running a cooling unit can increase your energy bill, you can lower it by choosing an energy-efficient model and regularly replacing or cleaning its filters.  

Turning Off Your Air Conditioner Saves Money

Turning off your air conditioner and then turning it back on again uses more energy than just leaving it running.

Air Conditioners Only Cool the Room

False! Air conditioners also help circulate air, removing odours and revitalizing stale air in the room. 

There is no need to Have Maintenance for an Air Conditioner

Wrong. Regular maintenance is essential for any cooling unit to ensure its full efficiency. Cleaning the filters regularly can extend their life and save you money on energy bills. 

All Air Conditioners are the Same

Not true. There are various types of air conditioners with different features and capabilities, such as window units, portable units, ductless mini-splits, and central air systems. 

Air Conditioners are Noisy

This is a myth. Most modern cooling units are designed to be very quiet. 

An Air Conditioner Can Overcool A Room

False. A cooling unit can only cool the room to the temperature you set it at. The more you lower it, the higher your energy bill will be. 

One Size Fits All When It Comes To Cooling Units

Not true. The size of your home, needs, and budget all factor into choosing the right air conditioner for you. 

Air Conditioners Cause Mould And Mildew To Grow In Houses

On its own, a cooling unit can't cause mould and mildew to grow in a house; however, if not maintained correctly and regularly, it can become the perfect environment for these types of organisms to thrive. 

Window Units Are Not As Effective As Whole-House Systems

This is not always true. Window units can provide effective cooling when properly installed and sized correctly for the area they are covering. 

Air Conditioners Aren’t Necessary For Hot, Humid Areas

Even in hot, humid areas, air conditioners help provide comfort and reduce humidity levels for a more pleasant indoor environment. Without one, you'd be much hotter and more uncomfortable. 

Air conditioners are essential for comfortable, healthy living and these myths should not keep you from enjoying them. Do your research and be sure to contact an experienced technician if you need help choosing the right unit for your home.