Air conditioning is the process of removing heat and controlling the humidity in an enclosed space. It is a member of a family of systems and techniques that provide, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) and is mostly used to cool rooms, large and small. Many myths abound about using air conditioners, here are the most common.
Myth 1: Causes colds and respiratory diseases
Using an air conditioner does not cause colds or respiratory diseases. Some people may get a runny nose or feel a tightness in their chests but you can’t actually get an illness. Cold temperatures don’t cause illnesses all by themselves, rather it’s the viruses that are spread during cold periods that cause illnesses. Air conditioning may in fact improve the quality of indoor air because most units are fitted with filters which capture dust, pet dander, and may even help reduce allergies. You can even get units with specialized filters able to kill bacteria and viruses. Air conditioning has the effect of dehumidifying the air which can cause issues like eye irritation and nosebleeds for people prone to them.
Myth 2: The bigger the better
There’s a pervasive assumption that bigger is always better when it comes to an air conditioner. Air conditioners don’t just cool the air, they also dehumidify it. For this reason, you should purchase a unit that fits your house when it comes to size. A properly sized one will keep the occupants of the house more comfortable and use less electricity. Consult a specialist before purchasing one.
Myth 3: Setting the temperature low cools the room faster
Setting the temperature really low does cool the room faster. The problem is it puts stress on the air conditioner to reach the temperature rapidly. If the thermostat is too low, the compressor will constantly work to keep it that low. This leads to wasted energy and guarantees higher energy bills. The best practice is to reduce the temperature slowly until you find the right comfort level.
Myth 4: It’s more cost-effective to keep your air conditioner running continuously
This myth comes from the erroneous belief that it takes more power to power off your air conditioner than it does to have it run continuously. You save more energy by not having it run continuously. You can even have it on a timer so that it starts running and cooling your home just before you get there. To maximize efficiency, keep your windows and blinds closed when running your AC on hot days. Using ceiling fans can also make it feel cooler as the fan moves the air around.
Myth 5: Servicing your air con is a waste of money
Servicing your air conditioner has come to be viewed as a scam and a waste of money although it’s not. Your air conditioner needs to breathe and regular cleaning keeps it running smoothly and efficiently. Don’t try to open it yourself, let a professional do it to be on the safe side and avoid damaging your unit. You should plan for annual service for units that have been in use for more than 10 years. The average lifespan of an AC is system is 20 years and servicing it ensures you increase its longevity and minimize the risk of breaking down.
Check out
Lifestyle: The pros and cons of air purifiers
Lifestyle: Considerations When Buying A Humidifier Or Diffuser
6 Simple Steps To Reduce The Impact Of Indoor And Outdoor Air Pollution To Your Health
