Myth vs. Fact: Debunking Common AC Energy Efficiency Myths

Recent research has shown that regions like the UAE can expect a 1.5 degree increase in temperature thanks to the effects of global warming.  And with summers getting hotter, and our need for cooling getting higher, how do we balance the costs - both to the planet and to our energy bills?  While there’s no simple fix to this perennial problem, we can help you with some hints and tips to keep you comfortable without over-cooling.

Unfortunately, there's a lot of misinformation floating around about AC efficiency. To help you navigate the cool facts from the hot air, we're debunking some common AC energy efficiency myths:

Myth #1: Lowering the thermostat significantly cools your home faster

Fact:  Setting the thermostat low doesn’t actually increase your air conditioner’s cooling capacity. What it does is increase the duration of cooling.  So, by lowering the thermostat significantly you won’t instantly cool your home, but you’ll keep your system running for longer until it reaches the temperature you’ve set it to (the set point).  And continuously running your AC just isn’t good for it (it can potentially shorten the life span of the system) plus it uses more electricity than you need so is a disaster for your energy bills too.   Instead, adjust your thermostat to between 23C and 25°C for the best outcome (24 degrees is considered the optimum temperature for thermal comfort).

Myth #2: Keeping your AC running all day saves energy

Fact: This might seem logical, but constantly running your AC puts a strain on the system and uses more energy in the long run. It is just like leaving your car engine running all day long – yes, it keeps the car’s AC on, but it’s a total waste of fuel. Utilise the timer function of your AC to cool your house an hour before peak heat times. This way, you're not battling the peak heat of the day, you're staying one step ahead of it.

Myth #3: Size doesn't matter – any AC will do

Fact: Imagine trying to fit a king-size bed into a single room – it wouldn't work well, would it? The same goes for AC units. Installing an oversized air conditioning unit for your area can result in inefficiency, just like one that is undersized. A bigger unit will frequently start and stop, consuming more energy in quick intervals during the day, much like someone repeatedly flicking a light switch. Seek advice from a certified technician to select the appropriately sized AC unit tailored to your requirements, or check out Taqeef’s AC specification calculator here,  it’ll help you pick the right capacity AC for your space which will save you money in the long term.

Myth #4: Regular maintenance is unnecessary

Fact: Think of your AC like a car – it needs a regular service to run smoothly and efficiently. With ACs try to remember that prevention is better than a cure - make sure you look after your system, so it doesn’t break down in the mid-summer heat!  You can do that with some easy but key maintenance, because clean filters, unclogged coils, and well-maintained ducts help any air conditioner to perform at its best. Dirty filters restrict airflow, clogged coils hinder heat transfer, and neglected ducts can leak cool air. All of this means your AC must work harder to cool your home, increasing energy consumption. Schedule professional AC maintenance with a professional or invest in an Annual AC Maintenance Plan like CoolProtect - which gives you full and regular AC services throughout the year for total peace of mind.

Myth #5: Fans don't help with cooling

Fact: While fans don't directly cool the air, they do create a windchill effect, making you feel cooler at a slightly higher thermostat setting. This translates to lower energy use for your AC. So, if fans work by creating wind circulation that helps distribute cool air and makes you feel comfortable at a slightly warmer temperature, they’re often a handy thing to keep around the house. Just remember to turn them off when the room is unoccupied, like switching off the lights when you leave a room.

Dispelling these AC myths and following some easy energy-saving tips, you can feel cool this summer without having to worry about high electrical bills. Keep in mind that small savings gradually accumulate into large savings. So, keep your home consciously cool and enjoy the long hot summer ahead!

Bonus Tip: Consider upgrading your AC unit to a more energy-efficient air conditioner model. The latest AC models are equipped with advanced inverter technology that has zero ozone depletion - meaning you can cool your home with less energy than older versions. Contact us at Taqeef or visit any of our stores today to explore our range of energy-efficient AC options and find the perfect fit for your home!