Serving the Des Moines, Omaha & Salt Lake City Metro Areas
9 Air Conditioner Myths Ankeny Homeowners Need to Stop Believing
When the summer heat strikes in Ankeny, Iowa, your air conditioner becomes your best friend. But thanks to outdated advice, social media posts, and old habits, many homeowners end up believing myths that could cost them comfort and money. At Golden Rule, we’re here to set the record straight.
Here are nine of the most common AC myths we hear from our customers in Ankeny—and the truth behind them.
Myth #1: A Bigger AC Unit Means Better Cooling
Truth: When it comes to air conditioners, bigger isn’t always better. An oversized unit will cool your home too quickly without properly removing humidity, leaving your home feeling clammy instead of comfortable. Plus, it will frequently cycle on and off, leading to higher energy bills and more wear and tear.
Pro Tip: Always have a professional perform a load calculation to find the perfect AC size for your Ankeny home.
Myth #2: Cranking the Thermostat Cools Your Home Faster
Truth: Your AC cools at the same rate no matter how low you set the thermostat. Setting it super low won’t cool your home faster—it’ll just make your system work longer and harder, driving up your energy costs.
Myth #3: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Money
Truth: It may seem like a good idea to shut off vents in empty rooms, but your HVAC system is designed to cool your entire home evenly. Closing vents increases pressure in your ductwork, potentially damaging your system and reducing efficiency.
Myth #4: You Only Need to Change Your Filter Once a Year
Truth: In Ankeny, where we experience plenty of pollen and dust, you should be checking and changing your filter every 1-3 months. A clogged filter reduces airflow, forcing your AC to work harder and possibly leading to system breakdowns.
Myth #5: AC Maintenance Isn’t Necessary Every Year
Truth: Annual maintenance is essential for keeping your AC running efficiently and reliably. Skipping it could lead to unexpected breakdowns, higher energy bills, and a shorter system lifespan.
At Golden Rule, we recommend scheduling AC tune-ups every spring before the cooling season hits its peak.
Myth #6: Ceiling Fans Keep Rooms Cool Without AC
Truth: Ceiling fans don’t lower the room temperature—they simply circulate air to create a wind-chill effect, making you feel cooler. They work best in tandem with your AC to help you stay comfortable without cranking the thermostat.
Myth #7: Refrigerant Needs to Be Refilled Regularly
Truth: Your AC’s refrigerant isn’t like fuel; it doesn’t get “used up.” If you’re low on refrigerant, it likely means there’s a leak that needs to be repaired. Simply topping it off isn’t enough—you need a professional to fix the root cause.
Myth #8: Thermostat Placement Doesn’t Matter
Truth: Your thermostat plays a critical role in maintaining your comfort. If it’s placed near heat sources like windows or appliances, it can get false readings and cause your AC to run longer than necessary.
Make sure your thermostat is installed in a central, shaded area away from direct sunlight and heat-producing devices.
Myth #9: Newer Homes Don’t Need AC Maintenance
Truth: Even if your home is brand new, your AC still needs annual maintenance to stay efficient and prevent premature wear. In fact, skipping maintenance can void your manufacturer’s warranty.
Get Reliable AC Help in Ankeny, Iowa
Don’t fall for these costly myths. If you want to keep your Ankeny home cool and comfortable all summer long, call Golden Rule for expert AC services—from repairs and maintenance to installations.
We’ve been helping homeowners in Ankeny and surrounding areas beat the heat with honest service and professional care. Schedule your appointment today!
