Does Air Conditioning Cause Allergies? Top Myths about Air-conditioning Busted

Rumours spread like wildfires and even air conditioning systems are not immune! 

With summers just around the corner, it is the best time to prepare yourself for warmer temperatures and prioritize indoor comfort. If you are considering purchasing an AC unit for your home or arranging for maintenance, you've probably come across the rumours about air conditioners: “Isn’t it bad for your health to leave AC running at night?” or “Does AC cause allergies?”. 

This is exactly why today we will be busting the common myths about air conditioning in Springwood. By keeping these misconceptions in mind, you can operate your AC with full confidence this summer and enjoy improved performance both in terms of efficient cooling and operating so you can save money on future bills. 

Myth# 1: Sleeping with the air conditioning on is bad for your health 

At night, our body temperature drops by one or two degrees. This means it is best to set the air conditioner above the temperature that you use during the daytime for indoor comfort. It is also best to check if your air conditioner has a sleep mode that increases the temperature by 1 degree per hour to increase comfort and reach the ideal temperature. 

However, if you are setting your AC to 16°C every night, you are bound to get cold. According to WHO, a temperature of 18°-24° C is an optimal and healthy temperature (subject to change according to local conditions and temperature). 

Myth# 2: I’m not fussed about my air filter, they don’t matter. 

All air that comes out of your air conditioner passes through a filter so your filters must be clean and undamaged. Having clogged or blocked filters puts strain on your air conditioner leading to increased energy usage while providing less cooling. Many modern air conditioners now come with pleated filter technology that captures finer dust and dirt particles than their traditional washable counterparts.  

An unclean filter for air conditioning in Springwood also causes allergies as clogged filters are unable to filter the air effectively. This allows the unclean air to enter your room and cause allergies and infections. Therefore, wash your filters every 3 months. If your AC has pleated filters, they can be changed during the next service. 

Myth# 3: The location of the indoor unit doesn’t matter 

Following this myth not only costs you comfort but also money as it leads to increased energy consumption. When installing the indoor unit, it is important to avoid placing the unit where it will be directly exposed to sunlight or where the airflow is blocked. This will require your air conditioner to operate harder with a lower output in return wasting resources but increasing your energy bills. Similarly, placing the thermostat in direct sunlight will make it measure the wrong temperature making your AC work more than required. 

Myth# 4: AC will run efficiently, it doesn’t matter where and how the outdoor unit is installed. 

Just like the indoor unit, the placement of the outdoor unit plays a key role in maximizing AC cooling efficiency and minimizing energy bills. Placing the outdoor unit in a north-facing location exposes it to direct sunlight, causing the surrounding air to get warm. For optimal performance, the outdoor unit should avoid continuously drawing in hot air from direct sunlight or its heat. Moreover, make sure that the outdoor unit is located away from bins, plants and other elements that can obstruct the air circulation. 

Myth# 5: Upgrading to a bigger air conditioner improves performance 

Although it might seem logical that a bigger unit of air conditioning in Springwood draws more power and hence is more efficient, there is little truth to that. 

A bigger air conditioner requires more energy to operate but can also cool the room quickly. However, this reduces the dehumidifying effect of an Ac. It is important to understand that an air conditioner not only cools the air but also conditions it which means it reduces the humidity, filters the air, and cools it. An oversized air conditioner will have negative effects on the “conditioning” of air whereas it will also consume more than expected.  

Myth# 6: Setting the temperature low is an ideal way to cool the space faster 

Yes, it will cool your room faster but is it the ideal way? Not! 

When you set the air conditioner temperature low, the difference between the desired temperature and the thermostat will cause the unit’s compressor to work constantly as the system attempts to reach the desired temperature. This will not only waste energy and increase your electricity bill but will also place additional stress on your unit causing it to overwork and reach failure early. 

This method is suitable if you want a quick surge of cold air, followed by setting it back to a moderate temperature. For instance, if the room is too hot and your guests are arriving or if you have arrived home and want to relax for 5 minutes.  

Disclaimer: This is a generic Information & post; content about the services can be changed from time to time as per your requirements and contract. The images we use in this context have been taken from "Canva.com" To get the latest and updated information, contact us today or visit our website.