Air conditioning is one of the most widely used appliances to ensure thermal comfort, but it is also surrounded by many myths about its energy consumption. Some of these beliefs lead users to adopt inefficient habits, resulting in higher electricity consumption. Below, we reveal the top five myths about air conditioning energy consumption.
1. Leaving the air conditioning on all day uses less energy
Many people believe that keeping the air conditioning on constantly, instead of turning it on and off throughout the day, reduces energy consumption. However, this is not true. The ideal is to use the appliance only when necessary and take advantage of features such as "sleep" mode and the timer to optimize use and reduce waste.
2. Lower temperatures cool the room faster
A common mistake is to set the temperature to a very low level, such as 16°C, believing that the room will cool down more quickly. In reality, the air conditioner always cools at the same speed, regardless of the temperature selected. Setting a temperature between 22°C and 24°C is more efficient and avoids unnecessary consumption.
3. Inverter air conditioners do not consume energy
Although inverter technology is more efficient than conventional models, it still consumes energy. The difference is that the compressor operates continuously and in an adjustable manner, avoiding peaks in consumption. This can result in savings of up to 40%, but conscious use is still essential to avoid waste.
4. Keeping doors and windows slightly open improves ventilation
Leaving gaps open can compromise the efficiency of the appliance, as cold air escapes and external heat enters, causing the air conditioner to have to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Ideally, the environment should be well sealed to ensure better energy efficiency.
5. Smaller appliances use less energy in any environment
Choosing a model with a lower capacity (BTUs) to save money can end up being more expensive. If the appliance is undersized for the space, it will need to work at maximum all the time, increasing consumption. The ideal is to correctly calculate the BTUs required for the space, considering factors such as the size of the space, sunlight and number of people.
By understanding these myths, it is possible to adopt more efficient practices when using the air conditioner and significantly reduce energy consumption. Small changes in habits can have a big impact on the electricity bill and also ensure greater durability of the appliance.
