One of the Most Common AC Misconceptions
We’ve all been there – walking into a sweltering house and immediately cranking the thermostat down to 60 degrees, hoping to cool the space as quickly as possible. This common myth about air conditioning systems needs to be put to rest once and for all.
Here’s why this doesn’t work:
• Your AC unit cools at the same rate regardless of how low you set the temperature
• Setting extremely low temperatures strains your system unnecessarily
• This practice leads to higher energy bills
• You’ll likely end up with an uncomfortably cold house
How Your AC Actually Works
Your air conditioning system is designed to cool your home at a consistent rate. When you set the temperature drastically low, your AC doesn’t work any harder or faster – it simply runs longer until it reaches that unreasonably low temperature.
The Smart Approach
Instead of extreme temperature settings, we recommend:
1. Set your thermostat to your desired comfortable temperature (usually 72-75°F)
2. Use a programmable thermostat to maintain consistent temperatures
3. Ensure regular maintenance of your system
4. Keep your air filters clean for optimal performance
The Bottom Line
Setting your thermostat to an extremely low temperature won’t cool your home any faster – it will only waste energy and potentially strain your system. For optimal comfort and efficiency, choose a reasonable temperature setting and let your AC system do what it’s designed to do.
Remember, if your AC system isn’t cooling effectively, it might be time for a professional inspection rather than attempting to compensate with extreme temperature settings.