IT MIGHT PAY TO KNOW THESE 5 AIR CONDITIONING TRUTHS!

Last month, TSR examined common “health” myths associated with air conditioning. This month, we’re examining commonly held myths about air conditioning units’ running and energy efficiency that many people are susceptible to believing.

As residents, we all wouldn’t mind saving a little energy… with the intent of minimising our carbon footprint and of course, saving money. The next 5 points will help iron out any uncertainties you may have on energy consumption and how to use your air conditioner versus how the air conditioner works.

Myth # 1 – The bigger the better

The truth is – bigger isn’t always better! Issues relating to oversized air conditioners are that they typically cool the space too quickly, overshooting set points while also resulting in poor humidity control, not to mention the increased purchase, installation and potential running costs. This is why it is so important to have an air conditioning specialist on-site to ensure the unit is sized correctly for the area it needs to cool and/or heat efficiently. Air conditioning systems (both small and large) can be quite complex and more than often need to be professionally designed to ensure all the factors that affect the temperature of the area are considered.

A system that is incorrectly sized will always cost more money in the long run. Our Unlimited Design licence allows our customers peace of mind that they are getting the right size system for their requirements.

Myth # 2 – Cranking the air conditioner lower will cool your house faster

The truth is – air conditioners will cool your room down at the same rate no matter what temperature you set it to. Turning the temperature down to 18°C won’t get your room to your desired temperature of let’s say, 24°C any faster than if you set it at 24°C. Set your AC unit at whatever temperature you want your room to be to ensure it reaches and consistently maintains that temperature.

It is also good to remember that a lower set temperature will eventually use more energy, especially if you forget to re-adjust it! Your unit will end up cooling too much and run less efficiently than it is designed to.

Myth # 3 – Reverse cycle air conditioners are more expensive to run than heaters

The truth is – air conditioners are more expensive to buy than a small electric heater, but are very effective in terms of the power they use compared to the heat they generate.

If you’re mindful of running costs and energy efficiency, we believe that installing a Reverse Cycle Split System air conditioner should be at the top of your list. It does both – cools and heats and is up to 3 times more efficient than electric heating!

Air Conditioners: 1KW of input = 3KW of heat output VS. Heaters: 1KW of input = 1KW of heat output

Myth # 4 – Split system air conditioners constantly need re-gassing

The truth is: that split system air conditioners are sealed units – which means there is no reason for re-gassing unless of course there is a leak.  If your air conditioner is low on refrigerant, either it was undercharged at installation, or it is leaking.  If it’s leaking, simply adding gas is not a solution. A qualified technician will be able to fix the leak, test the repair and recharge the system with the correct amount of refrigerant required. Often, air conditioners will never need to be re-gassed.

Myth # 5 – There is no need to service your unit unless there is a problem

The truth is – air conditioning units need routine maintenance and attention. Even when they “appear” to be running smoothly there is a fair chance they may need a good clean. If your unit is in good operating order as well as being clean – it is going to run as efficiently as possible.

Avoid skipping your regular maintenance. The efficiency difference between a dirty air conditioner and a clean one can be up to -7%. TSR’s Split System Hydro-Cleaner is the top-of-the-range level for air conditioning cleanses.

Don’t let air conditioning myths tip you in the wrong direction and don’t let the repair or replacement of your unit burn an unnecessary hole in your pocket.

Talk to our team of specialists today to find out how we can point you in the right direction with all your air conditioning needs (both new and old!).