It’s not always easy to save energy on hot summer days. But it helps if you separate the facts from the myths about saving energy.
Myth: Lower Thermostat Setting Cools Faster
Air conditioning systems provide cooling by extracting heat energy at the indoor coil, and moving and transferring the heat outside the home at the outdoor coil. The cooling capacity of the coils is constant. A/C heat exchange is not the same as turning up the heat on a furnace, which increases the burner flame and amount of heat energy exchange. In most air conditioners, your home won’t arrive at your desired temperature any faster by setting it lower than where you want it.
Myth: Turn Off AC While Away From Home
Turning the air conditioner off when you leave for work saves energy dollars, but the savings are generally offset by the load placed on the A/C when it’s turned back on after your home has been heating up all day. The best solution for energy savings and maintaining home comfort according to your schedule is with a programmable or WiFi thermostat. Program it eight to 10 degrees higher when you leave, setting it to return to your comfort level before you return.
Myth: Ceiling Fans Cool a Home
Ceiling fans do not change the temperature of a room. They provide a wind-chill effect that removes moisture and heat from the body more quickly than without a fan. Therefore, using ceiling fans is an excellent way to save A/C dollars and feel cooler – but only in occupied rooms.
Myth: Closing Vents in Empty Rooms Saves Energy
The air conditioner is regulated by the thermostat readings and setting — not by closed vents. Closing air vents simply creates obstructions to airflow in the living spaces and the air ducts. The more energy-efficient and comfortable solution is using a zoning system where you can control where conditioned air goes.
Forget the myths about saving energy in the summertime, and get the straight facts from your friendly HVAC professionals. Contact us today at James Lane Air Conditioning & Plumbing Co. for HVAC answers for your Wichita Falls area home.
