There are quite a few air conditioner misconceptions out there. You might not think this is a big deal, but the truth is, that believing these misconceptions can matter.
The reason it matters is that you could be using your air conditioning system inefficiently, paying more for your energy usage than you really need to, exacerbating system wear-and-tear, and potentially shortening the overall useful service life or your cooling system.
Read on as we dive into the 3 most common AC misconceptions out there.
Myth #1: You Don’t Need a Professional to Install Your Air Conditioner
The only time when this is maybe true is in the case of a window unit or portable air conditioner. The only other time this could be true is if you don’t care if your air conditioner performs as cost-effectively as possible.
The thing about having a trained and experienced professional complete your AC installation is that it means you’re entrusting a professional who has spent years in on-the-job training and understands all the nuances involved with each different kind of AC system–this is knowledge and experience that a general handyman or even enthusiastic “DIYer” won’t have.
Professional HVAC technicians know how to effectively and safely remove your old cooling system without damaging any components, properly hook up your air ducts and electrical system to the system without any safety issues, and how to test the system to ensure it’s operating as best it can.
Myth #2: The Bigger System You Get, The Better It Will Perform
Nope! This one is not true at all when it comes to cooling systems. We understand why you might think this way–a bigger AC system is more powerful, right?
Yes, but your cooling system can actually be too powerful. What occurs when an air conditioner is too large for the space where it’s installed is that it starts to rapidly cycle on and off, without ever completing a full cooling cycle. This is a process known as short-cycling, and it exacerbates wear and tear on your cooling system, which can lead to premature failure.
Myth #3: A Cheaper Option Doesn’t Necessarily Mean It’s a Bad Option
Well… maybe not bad, but not great. Whether we’re talking about the cost of the system itself or the cost of installation, if you’re seeing quotes for drastically lower prices, chances are you are in fact going to “get what you pay for.”
It’s important to shop around and work with a contractor who you feel you can trust for your air conditioning services, whether it’s installation, repairs, or even maintenance. But don’t believe the “cheaper is okay” myth, otherwise, you could find yourself paying more money later on for inefficient system operation or even premature replacement.
When choosing a contractor to work with, it’s a good idea to look at factors like their experience and longevity in your area, their customer reviews, and the services they provide. We’re happy to answer any questions you have about our services!
For quality air conditioning services in Portland and beyond, contact Clawson Heating & Air Conditioning today! We are “Connecting People to Comfort.”