AC Myths That Could Be Costing You This Summer

August 18, 2025

When summer heat rolls into Spring Lake, NJ, most homeowners rely on their air conditioning systems to stay cool and comfortable. But with so much information circulating about how AC systems work, it’s easy to fall for common myths that can actually cost you money, reduce efficiency, or even shorten the life of your unit. Understanding the truth behind these misconceptions helps you make better choices for your home and ensures your system performs at its best during the peak of summer.

Below, we’ll break down five common AC myths and explain what you should know instead.

Myth 1: Lowering the Thermostat Will Cool the Home Faster

The Myth: Many homeowners think that setting the thermostat much lower than the desired temperature will make the house cool down faster. For example, if you want your home at 74°F but you set it at 65°F, you may believe it speeds up the cooling process.

The Reality: Air conditioners work at a consistent rate. Setting the thermostat lower does not make the unit cool faster; it only keeps the system running longer until it reaches the set temperature. This can result in unnecessary energy use and higher electric bills.

Better Approach for Spring Lake Homes:

• Set your thermostat at the temperature you actually want, not lower.

• Use a programmable thermostat to maintain steady cooling throughout the day.

• Consider energy-efficient settings, such as keeping your home around 76–78°F when occupied, to balance comfort and savings.

Myth 2: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy

The Myth: If you don’t use certain rooms, closing the vents in those spaces will reduce the workload on your AC system and lower your energy bills.

The Reality: Central air conditioning systems are designed to distribute air evenly throughout the home. Closing vents can actually create pressure imbalances in the ductwork. This can force your system to work harder, cause duct leaks, and reduce efficiency.

Better Approach for Spring Lake Homes:

• Keep all vents open for balanced airflow.

• Seal duct leaks and ensure proper insulation to maximize efficiency.

• If you rarely use certain parts of your home, consider installing a zoned HVAC system that allows for customized cooling in different areas.

Myth 3: Bigger AC Units Provide Better Cooling

The Myth: A larger AC unit automatically cools the home better and faster, which means more comfort in the summer.

The Reality: An oversized unit does not equal better cooling. In fact, it often causes the system to short cycle—turning on and off too frequently. This leads to uneven cooling, higher humidity levels inside your home, and more wear and tear on components.

Better Approach for Spring Lake Homes:

• Work with a professional HVAC technician to size your AC system correctly for your home’s square footage, layout, and insulation.

• A properly sized unit ensures consistent cooling, better humidity control, and longer equipment lifespan.

• If your current system seems too powerful or not powerful enough, schedule an AC inspection before peak summer heat.

Myth 4: AC Maintenance Isn’t Necessary Unless Something Breaks

The Myth: If the air conditioner is working, there’s no reason to spend money on professional maintenance.

The Reality: Skipping regular maintenance is one of the fastest ways to reduce your AC’s efficiency and lifespan. Even if your unit seems to be running fine, hidden issues—like dirty coils, clogged filters, or low refrigerant—can make the system work harder and increase utility bills.

Better Approach for Spring Lake Homes:

• Schedule annual AC maintenance before summer begins, ideally in late spring.

• Replace air filters every 1–3 months depending on usage.

• Have a technician check refrigerant levels, inspect coils, and clean the condenser unit.

• Preventative maintenance reduces breakdowns and improves efficiency, saving you money long-term.

Myth 5: Fans Lower the Temperature of a Room

The Myth: Running a ceiling fan or box fan can actually lower the room’s temperature, making the AC work less.

The Reality: Fans don’t lower room temperature—they circulate air to create a wind-chill effect that makes people feel cooler. If you leave fans running in an empty room, you’re just wasting electricity without actually reducing the heat.

Better Approach for Spring Lake Homes:

• Use fans to supplement AC cooling when you’re in the room. This allows you to raise your thermostat by a couple of degrees while still feeling comfortable.

• Turn fans off when you leave the room to save energy.

• Consider energy-efficient ceiling fans to maximize comfort without driving up costs.

Practical Tips to Avoid AC Myths This Summer

Now that you know some of the biggest AC myths, here are simple actions you can take to keep your home cool and efficient in Spring Lake, NJ:

• Schedule maintenance early. This ensures your system is ready before the peak of summer.

• Set realistic thermostat levels. Balance comfort and efficiency.

• Use window coverings. Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day to reduce heat gain.

• Check insulation. Proper insulation reduces the strain on your AC system.

• Seal air leaks. Small cracks around windows and doors let cool air escape, making your AC work harder.

Why This Matters in Spring Lake, NJ

Homes in Spring Lake face humid coastal summers that put extra demand on cooling systems. Myths about how AC units function can lead to higher energy bills, poor indoor comfort, and unnecessary wear on equipment. By understanding how your system really works and adopting efficient practices, you can:

• Keep your home cool without overpaying.

• Improve indoor air quality.

• Extend the life of your HVAC system.

• Avoid sudden breakdowns during the hottest days of summer.

Air conditioning is essential for staying comfortable during the humid summers in Spring Lake, NJ, but falling for common AC myths can cost you in the long run. From thermostat misconceptions to overlooked maintenance, these myths can lead to wasted energy, higher bills, and reduced performance. By learning the truth and making smart adjustments, you’ll enjoy reliable cooling, better comfort, and more manageable energy costs all summer long.