Dispelling Common Air Conditioning Myths: What You Need to Know

Having to endure this unbearable heat during the holiday period, the thought of installing an air conditioner no doubt crossed your mind, but having heard many different rumours about air conditioning has left you uncertain?

Let’s clear the air and tackle some widespread myths. This guide will help you better understand how air conditioning systems function and ensure you’re getting the most out of your investment.

Air conditioning has become a staple in homes, offices, schools, and countless other spaces, especially in warm, humid climates. Yet, misconceptions persist, leading to misunderstandings about their capabilities and maintenance. Let’s debunk some of the most common myths surrounding air conditioning.

Myth #1: Air Conditioning Is Only for Cooling

One of the most common beliefs is that air conditioning systems are designed solely to cool spaces. While they excel at this, many modern units also double as heaters. With advanced technology, these systems can efficiently warm spaces, often outperforming traditional heating systems in terms of energy use and cost-effectiveness. By utilizing an air conditioner for heating, you can lower your energy consumption and carbon footprint, saving money in the long run.

Myth #2: Air Conditioners Only Regulate Temperature

While temperature control is a key function, air conditioners offer much more. They can reduce humidity, which makes spaces more comfortable and protects building materials from moisture damage. By managing humidity, air conditioners also help improve air quality and prolong the lifespan of buildings.

Myth #3: Bigger Units Are Better

It’s a common assumption that a larger air conditioning unit will be more effective. In reality, the size of the unit should match the size of the space it serves. An oversized system will consume more energy than necessary, leading to higher utility bills. To ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency, choose an appropriately sized unit for your space.

Refer to our guide on calculating the area size of a room to determine the size of Air Conditioner required?

Myth #4: Air Conditioners Are Noisy and Bulky

Modern air conditioning systems are designed with aesthetics and noise reduction in mind. Smaller units for residential use are sleek and quiet, and even larger systems operate at manageable noise levels. If your system is unusually loud or noisy, it may be working too hard due to maintenance issues. Regular servicing can help resolve this.

Myth #5: Placement of Indoor Units Doesn’t Matter

The location of your air conditioning unit significantly impacts its performance. Avoid installing indoor units in direct sunlight, at improper heights, or in areas where airflow is obstructed by furniture. Similarly, outdoor condenser units require good ventilation and should be kept free of debris. Poor placement can cause the system to overwork, leading to inefficiency and premature failure.

Myth #6: A Fan Is Just as Effective

Fans circulate air but don’t reduce temperatures like an air conditioning system. On hot days, a fan may make a space feel less stuffy, but it cannot replace the cooling and dehumidifying power of an air conditioner.

Myth #7: Air Conditioning Causes Colds

Many people worry that air conditioning can lead to colds or illnesses. In truth, modern systems improve indoor air quality by filtering harmful particles and maintaining healthy humidity levels. These features can reduce the likelihood of illnesses caused by poor air quality.

Myth #8: Lowering the Thermostat Cools Faster

Setting the thermostat to a lower temperature won’t cool your space more quickly. Air conditioning systems operate at a constant rate regardless of the temperature setting. For efficiency, set your thermostat to a comfortable range—typically between 18 and 22 degrees Celsius.

 

Myth #9: Sleeping with Air Conditioning On Is Unhealthy

Using air conditioning at night isn’t harmful if the temperature is set appropriately. Because body temperature drops during sleep, slightly raising the thermostat can enhance comfort. Many modern systems even feature night modes for optimal performance during sleep.

Myth #10: Maintenance Isn’t Necessary Unless Something Breaks

Regular servicing is essential to keep your air conditioning system running efficiently and prolong its lifespan. Maintenance helps identify minor issues before they escalate, saving you from costly repairs and ensuring your unit functions reliably for years to come.

The following maintenance intervals are recommended.

• Household (Domestic) –  We recommend having a major service done twice a year, just before winter, and again just before the summer months.
• Corporate Companies – Here we recommend a 3 monthly maintenance plan. This is not only recommended due to time the air conditioners run, but is also known to have a positive effect on the productivity of the companies employees.

Summary:

SOS Air Conditioning Systems continuously strive to provide reliable and honest Air Conditioning Solutions, and hope this article has addressed some common misconceptions about air conditioning. If you have more questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us. Our team is here to help with all your air conditioning needs. (You can also follow us on social media for more tips and insights!)

All you have to do, is contact Sonia and let SOS Air Conditioning help you create the perfect climate anywhere anytime.

Email: info@sosairconsystems.co.za

Website: www.sosairconsystems.co.za