2 Myths About Air Conditioners Exposed
Many homeowners are guilty of not paying much attention to their air conditioner until it breaks down. This is likely because they do not know about how complex and expensive these household appliances are and because they believe some myths that are simply not true. By learning the truth about these myths, you'll be well prepared for a potential problem before it happens.
Myth 1: Ice On My Air Conditioner's Condenser Is Normal
You may notice ice forming on the outside of your air conditioner's condenser, which is common. Unfortunately, ice formation is a problem that could potentially damage your condenser. Air needs to travel between the fins along the side of the condenser to help cool down the unit. Even though ice is cold, it will block airflow going into the condenser. This can cause the condenser to overheat, leading to a costly repair.
When you notice ice forming on the condenser, stop using it immediately. Ice can easily form when the temperature is cooler outside, which are days on which you can probably cool down your home just as easily by opening some windows. Ice will have a harder time forming on the days when it's really hot outside, which is when you need your air conditioner the most.
Myth 2: Mold Only Forms In Ductwork When Water Is Leaking Into It
A central air conditioning system requires ductwork to move air around the home. The dark and cold environment of ductwork makes it perfect for mildew and mold to form. Many homeowners are under the impression that mold will only form if water is somehow leaking into the ductwork. This is false.
The inside of metal ductwork can be very cold when your air conditioner is in use and can create condensation. When condensation cannot quickly evaporate, it will start to pool in your ductwork and eventually lead to mold growth. This problem can be fixed by using a whole-home dehumidifier that takes the humidity out of the air before it goes into the ductwork.
You air conditioning is a very complex system that is essential for maintaining a comfortable temperature inside your home. If you don't understand how it works, these problems will not become apparent until they start causing damage. Now that you are aware of the truth behind two air conditioning myths, you'll be able to take preventative steps to stop damage from occurring. This will help keep your AC system working for many years to come. For more information, speak with experts like Wright Total Indoor Comfort.