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8 Air Conditioning Myths That Cost Springfield, MO Homeowners Money
Want to save money on your energy bills and avoid unnecessary HVAC repairs? Don’t fall for these common air conditioning myths - they can lead to higher costs, reduced comfort, and even premature system failure in your Springfield home.
Here are the 8 most common A/C myths Springfield homeowners should stop believing:
- The size of your A/C unit doesn’t matter
- Setting the thermostat lower cools faster
- Turning the A/C off when you leave saves money
- Ceiling fan direction doesn’t matter
- Closing vents in unused rooms saves energy
- Your outdoor unit doesn’t need attention
- Keep running your A/C until it dies
- Maintenance doesn’t make a difference
Myth #1: The Size of Your A/C Unit Doesn’t Matter
Fact: When it comes to your home’s comfort, size absolutely matters. An undersized unit will run constantly and still struggle to cool your home. An oversized system will short-cycle — turning on and off repeatedly — wearing itself out faster. At SS&B Heating & Cooling, our experts can properly size a system that’s just right for your Springfield home by utilizing Manual J calculations - the gold standard in sizing HVAC equipment.
Myth #2: Setting the Thermostat Lower Cools Faster
Fact: Your air conditioner cools at the same rate no matter what temperature you set it at. Cranking it down to 65°F won’t cool your home faster — but it will overcool and waste energy if you forget to adjust it. Consider installing a smart thermostat like the Ecobee to keep your home comfortable and your energy bills lower.
Myth #3: Turning the A/C Off When You Leave Saves Money
Fact: Shutting your system off completely lets your home heat up while you’re gone, forcing your A/C to work much harder when you return. Instead, raise your thermostat 5–8 degrees while you’re away, then set it back when you’re home. This keeps your home comfortable and saves energy.
Myth #4: Ceiling Fan Direction Doesn’t Matter
Fact: It matters! In summer, ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise to create a wind-chill effect. This can make you feel up to 5 degrees cooler and allow you to set the thermostat higher. Just remember: fans cool people, not rooms — so turn them off when you leave the room.
Myth #5: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy
Fact: Closing vents actually increases pressure in your ductwork and can lead to leaks, reduced efficiency, and even system damage. Keep vents open throughout your Springfield home for balanced airflow and better performance.
Myth #6: Your Outdoor Unit Doesn’t Need Attention
Fact: Many homeowners focus only on what’s inside and forget about the outdoor condenser unit. But if it’s surrounded by weeds, mulch, or debris, airflow is restricted — making your system work harder and use more energy. Keep at least 2–3 feet of clear space around the unit and rinse off dust and dirt with a garden hose. Shading the unit can also improve efficiency — just make sure plants or fencing aren’t too close.
Myth #7: Keep Running Your A/C Until It Dies
Fact: Hanging onto an old, inefficient system can cost you more in repairs and energy than replacing it. If your unit is 12–15 years old, it’s worth considering an energy-efficient replacement. New Trane and RunTru systems from SS&B can cut your cooling costs by up to 40% when compared to older, less-efficient models.* Wondering whether it's smarter to repair or replace? Check out some points to ponder with our blog about it!
Myth #8: Maintenance Doesn’t Make a Difference
Fact: Skipping maintenance is like skipping oil changes in your car — it shortens the life of your system, lowers efficiency, and leads to more (and more costly!) repairs down the road. Regular HVAC maintenance in Springfield, MO keeps your system running smoothly and catches small problems before they become big ones. And don’t forget: replacing dirty filters regularly is one of the easiest ways to keep your system efficient and your air clean. Springfield homeowners can also join our Comfort Club to stay on track and save money year-round.
Don’t Let These A/C Myths Drain Your Wallet or Your Comfort
The experts at SS&B Heating & Cooling are here to help you make smart choices. Whether you need HVAC maintenance in Springfield, MO, an energy-efficient system replacement, or just honest advice, we’re your trusted local partner.
Call SS&B Heating & Cooling for expert HVAC advice and services. 417-580-9905, Or contact us online to schedule your consultation today!
Frequently Asked Questions
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*Disclaimer: Actual energy savings may vary based on your home’s size, existing ductwork, insulation, usage habits, and the efficiency of the system being replaced. “Up to 40%” figure based on manufacturer testing under optimal conditions compared to older, less efficient models.
