Air conditioning has been keeping homes comfortable for decades, yet somehow, a surprising number of myths still persist. Some believe running the air con at night is bad for their health, others assume they can just switch it on and forget about it, and then there’s the classic claim that a fan works just as well (we’ll get to that later).

These misconceptions not only lead to less efficient cooling, but can also drive up power bills, reduce air quality, and shorten the lifespan of your system. It’s time to set the record straight. Here’s the truth behind some of the most common air conditioning myths.

 

Myth #1: Sleeping with Air Con On Is Bad for You

There’s a long-standing belief that sleeping with the air con on is unhealthy. Some say it dries out your throat and skin, while others believe it causes colds and flu. But here’s the truth: a properly maintained air conditioning system actually improves sleep quality—not the other way around.

Why It’s a Myth:

  • Air conditioning doesn’t make you sick—viruses and bacteria do. If you’re waking up with a sore throat or stuffy nose, chances are your air-con filter is overdue for a clean, allowing dust and allergens to circulate.
  • The human body sleeps best in a cool environment. Studies show that temperatures between 18-22°C are ideal for deep, uninterrupted sleep.

How to Sleep Comfortably with Air Con:

  • Set a reasonable temperature – Avoid cranking it down to 16°C; it’s unnecessary and could make your muscles tense overnight. Stick to a comfortable range of 18-22°C.
  • Use a timer – If you prefer not to have it running all night, set a sleep timer so it cools the room while you fall asleep and turns off later.
  • Keep the filters clean – Dirty filters can blow dust, allergens, and bacteria into the air, leading to irritation and congestion. A simple cleaning every few months can prevent this.

In short, air conditioning isn’t the problem—it’s how you use it that matters. A well-maintained system can actually help you sleep better, not worse.

 

Myth #2: Air Con Is “Set and Forget” 

Would you drive your car for years without a service? Hopefully not. Yet, many people assume air conditioning doesn’t need maintenance—just install it, switch it on, and it’ll work forever, right? Wrong.

Like any appliance, air con needs servicing to keep it running efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively. Ignoring it can lead to higher power bills, reduced cooling performance, and even expensive repairs down the track.

Why This Myth Persists:

  • Air con doesn’t “break” overnight—it gradually loses efficiency, making problems easy to ignore until they become serious.
  • Some people assume that if cold air is still coming out, everything must be fine. But even if it’s working, a clogged or poorly maintained system has to work harder, consuming more energy and reducing its lifespan.

Why Maintenance Matters:

  • Dirty filters = higher power bills – A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing the system to work harder and use more electricity.
  • Mould growth – A damp, poorly maintained unit can accumulate mould and bacteria, which then get circulated into your home’s air.
  • Preventing costly breakdowns – A simple yearly check-up can catch small issues before they become expensive repairs.

 

Myth #3: Air Con Only Affects Heat (It Does Way More Than That)

Yes, air conditioning cools your home—but reducing heat is just one part of the equation. A properly functioning system also improves air quality, manages humidity, and reduces allergens, making it a year-round solution for better indoor living.

Why This Myth Exists:

  • People tend to associate air con only with summer, forgetting that it has other benefits beyond cooling.
  • Many don’t realise how much humidity control and air filtration impact indoor comfort.

What Air Con Really Does:

  • Filters out allergens – Modern air conditioning systems have built-in air filters that trap dust, pollen, and even bacteria. For allergy sufferers, this can be life-changing during high pollen seasons.
  • Controls humidity – Too much humidity? Your home feels sticky and uncomfortable. Too little? You get dry skin and irritated sinuses. A well-balanced air conditioning system keeps your indoor environment just right.
  • Improves overall air quality – Unlike fans, which just push air around, air conditioning removes airborne contaminants, making your home healthier and more comfortable.

 

Myth #4: Leaving the Air Con at the Same Temperature Saves Energy

It seems logical—if you pick a temperature and never touch it, surely the system will work less and use less energy, right? Unfortunately, this is not how air conditioning works.

Why This Myth Persists:

  • People assume that constant temperature = stable energy use.
  • There’s a belief that turning the unit off and on frequently wastes more power.
  • Some think adjusting the temperature throughout the day makes little difference to overall energy use.

The Truth:

Air conditioning is most efficient when it’s used strategically, not when it’s running continuously at one setting. If you leave your air-con at a low temperature all day—even when no one is home—it wastes energy cooling an empty space.

Instead, the best way to maximise efficiency and reduce costs is to:

  • Use timers – Program your air con to turn on before you get home and switch off when you leave. This way, you come back to a comfortable house without unnecessary power use.
  • Adjust settings based on conditions – On cooler days, raising the temperature by even one or two degrees can reduce energy consumption without sacrificing comfort.
  • Use energy-saving mode – Many modern systems have smart sensors that adjust cooling based on room occupancy and external temperatures.

 

Air Con Done Right 

Air conditioning isn’t just about cooling—it’s about comfort, efficiency, and better air quality all year round. The myths around air-con often lead to wasted energy, poor maintenance, and missed benefits, but the truth is simple: when used correctly, it’s the best way to stay comfortable in any season.

At Air Conditioning Group, we provide expert advice, top-quality installations, and reliable servicing to make sure your system works at its best. If you’re ready for smarter, healthier, and more efficient cooling and heating, get in touch today.