Common AC Myths That Are Costing You Money


The Truth About Air Conditioning That Every Homeowner Should Know

One of the most persistent myths in home cooling continues to cost Arizona homeowners hundreds of dollars each year. Today, we’re going to debunk a common misconception that’s particularly relevant to our desert climate residents in Tucson, Oro Valley, and the surrounding areas.

The Myth: Setting Your Thermostat Much Lower Will Cool Your Home Faster

Many people believe that setting their thermostat to a much lower temperature than desired will help their home cool down more quickly. For example, if you want your home at 75°F, setting it to 65°F won’t make it cool any faster.

Here’s why this myth is false:

• Your AC system works at the same speed regardless of the temperature setting
• Setting a lower temperature only makes your system run longer
• This practice leads to unnecessary energy consumption
• You’ll likely end up with an uncomfortably cold house
• Your energy bills will be significantly higher

The Reality

Your air conditioning system works by removing heat at a consistent rate. Think of it like filling a glass of water – turning the faucet on full blast doesn’t make the glass fill faster if it’s already running at capacity.

What You Should Do Instead:

1. Set your thermostat to your desired temperature
2. Maintain regular AC maintenance schedules
3. Use a programmable thermostat for efficiency
4. Keep your filters clean
5. Schedule professional inspections regularly

By understanding how your AC truly works, you can make smarter decisions about your home’s cooling system and save money in the process.

Remember, efficient cooling isn’t about extreme settings – it’s about consistent, well-maintained operation of your system.